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Metalphoto® Aluminum Nameplates

Proclaimed the Most Durable Nameplates Available

MPC’s Metalphoto is our most durable and popular solution for aluminum nameplates, with an expected outdoor life span of 20 years or more. The graphics are sealed beneath a sapphire-hard anodic layer, creating an impenetrable surface that is resistant to abrasion, heat and sunlight. Metalphoto is the specified material for many military standards and aerospace applications, and the National Association of Graphic and Product Identification Manufacturers (GPI) Industry Standards and Practices Manual identifies Metalphoto photosensitive anodized aluminum as the most durable printed aluminum substrate available, citing its applicability for extreme environmental conditions and outdoor exposure.

After fabrication, edges and holes of the finished parts are not anodized. A secondary process may be elected for thicknesses of .063″ or greater to anodize, alodine or paint these edges for increased durability and protection.

DETAILS

Product Specification

Material:
Anodized aluminum .020" or .032" face stock standard (optional thicknesses .003", .005", 008", .012", .063", .090", .125").
Finishes:
Matte (non-reflective w/flat finish), Satin (lustrous semi-reflective material), #4 (brushed to resemble a stainless steel finish), Gloss (highly reflective, mirror-like). Note: #4 starts at .032" thickness; Gloss is available in .020" only. See Metalphoto finishes.
Attachment:
Permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive and/or holes for mechanical attachment.
Copy/Graphics:
Many fonts and design elements are available, as well as your company logo.
Colors:
Black graphics on silver background or silver graphics on black background; color options available. Note: Colors other than black possess limited UV resistance.
Standard Sizes:
Standard and custom sizes up to 24" x 40".
Shipment:
15 working days from receipt of order and approval of artwork. Expedited shipment is available for an additional charge. Foil thicknesses require 15-20 business days.

Why Choose MPC's Metalphoto Nameplates?

Retains original appearance even under years of exposure to extreme heat, humidity, UV, salt spray, abrasion, industrial solvents, chemicals and more.
Photosensitive anodized aluminum face stock seals images beneath a sapphire-hard anodic layer.
Specified for many military standards and aerospace applications.
Proclaimed as the most durable aluminum substrate by the National Association of Graphic and Product Identification Manufacturers (GPI).
Skillfully fabricated in our machine and print shops to your design specifications.
High-performance adhesives and/or holes for mechanical attachment.
Crisp high-contrast graphics provide excellent resolution on a black or silver background.

Specialized Material Options for Your Application

Metalphoto of Cincinnati offers nameplates in a variety of standard material options, including our proprietary Metalphoto® substrate. Metalphoto is photosensitive anodized aluminum, which features a silver and black photographic image that is embedded within the sapphire-hard anodic layer of the aluminum. This combination gives a Metalphoto part an outdoor life of over 20 years, and makes it extremely resistant to damage or degradation from environmental factors like abrasion, UV fading, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and corrosion from saltwater exposure. The National Association of Graphic and Product Identification Manufacturers (GPI) Industry Standards and Practices Manual identifies Metalphoto as the most durable printed aluminum substrate available, and it has been trusted by industry, government and military organizations like Caterpillar, The US Navy, NASA, and Boeing for over 50 years. Metalphoto offers many unique features including:

  • Lasts over 20 years outdoors without fading or degradation.
  • Uniquely resistant to damage or degradation from environmental factors like abrasion, UV fading, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and corrosion from saltwater exposure.
  • Exceptional image resolution that allows for photo image, security and microprint options.
  • Ability to support unique information, including a unique barcode or QR code and letter/number combination on every piece.
Learn More About Metalphoto ›

Request a Nameplate, Front Panel, Label & Tag Evaluation Kit

Request a free Metalphoto evaluation kit today and we will send you a sample kit to test our durable identification products in your own operating environment.

 

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Benefits of Metalphoto

Metalphoto continues to be a leading material choice for some of the most demanding applications. Known for its durability and high-performance characteristics, Metalphoto has several advantages over other substrates. These are two of the most important factors that many customers consider when selecting Metalphoto for their applications.

Excellent Durability

When graphics are printed on a Metalphoto substrate, they are sealed beneath an anodic layer of aluminum. This process helps preserve and protect the high-resolution, high-contrast graphics and reduces the risk of any damage to the surface that could hinder readability. It also helps eliminate the effects of exposure to outdoor environments and other harsh conditions, making Metalphoto anodized aluminum is an excellent choice for high-quality labels, panels, and tags. Metalphoto’s excellent durability is often one of the primary reasons it’s a substrate of choice for asset management and item identification.

High-Resolution Graphics

Metalphoto can withstand some of the most challenging conditions in industries with assets that are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Metalphoto labels and tags can last for up to 20 years in outdoor environments and survive persistent exposure to weather and UV rays. The Metalphoto surface is also strong enough to withstand abrasion with no pronounced image loss, degradation, or reduced readability, and it has good resistance to moisture, corrosion due to salt spray, alkaline cleaners, and other chemicals and solvents. Standard Metaphoto surfaces are resistant to temperatures up to 500°F.
FEATURED CASE STUDY

When Durability, Cost and Lead Time Are Crucial, Etched & Filled Stainess Steel Does Not Perform

See why Seatrax, a leading offshore crane manufacturer, chose Metalphoto photosensitive anodized aluminum for extreme durability and fast turnaround on permanent labels and markings.

Read the Story ›

No Minimum Quantity, Get A Quote for Any Size Job

We have no minimum piece requirement. Our minimum production run is $400 per part number, excluding set-up fees/tooling. Contact us regarding your project.

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Get Identification Designed For Your Industry

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5 Star American Made Products

I have been buying products from Metalphoto of Cincinnati for more than 12 years now, never had any problem, very good products, high quality, and good communication.

Yovani Pinero

Outstanding Quality and Customer Service

MPC was the only company to provide a quote for our aluminum labels in the time frame we needed – and with outstanding quality and customer service.

Amanda Maul
Sierra Detention Systems

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