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It’s all in the Nameplates
The Purpose of a Name Plate -
Nameplates are usually associated with an office setting where they are placed on a desk to identify its occupant. In some cases, they will have the name of the person and their position. Though we use a single term for nameplates, there are multiple varieties of them made from different materials. While we may presume them to be exclusively for offices, they have a broader function beyond what we may think.
A nameplate, regardless of its function, is an identifier. In some cases, it can be identifying a product, a button on a panel, or the up and down buttons of an elevator. Manufacturers of nameplates produce products that go far beyond the simple name on a desk. Their definition includes switches, control panels, brand name symbols, warning signs and important functions such as labeling the displays on airplanes and space shuttles.
The design of a nameplate can tell a great deal about the person or product that it is identifying. Ones made of heavy paper and taped to a door or workspace give the idea that the person may not be permanent or just started a new position. Metal nameplates mounted on finished wood and displayed on a desk or door gives a completely different impression. This is also true of nameplates for products. Companies very carefully choose the type and kind of plate that will display their name since it stands as a symbol of who they are and the quality of their products. In many ways, it is a miniature advertisement.
How nameplates are made -
The nameplate industry uses several methods to produce their high quality products. The choice of a method depends on the type of metal, materials, and design. Complex images and patterns require more specialized production methods.
Anodising – Anodising is an electrolytic process that creates a thick oxide layer on aluminum and allows for the use of color and multiple images.
Engraving – Engraving is a centuries old process used by several industries as name tags, signs, or memorials. In simple terms, it is the use of a tool to cut grooves into metal or wood to create a design. The final image can be either recessed or raised depending on a customer's preference and the technique used.
Etching – There are two common forms of etching – acid or photo. In acid etching, a wax block is melted on a metal plate. After the wax hardens, a design is worked into it leaving the metal of the plate exposed. The metal is removed by the acid leaving the design. In the case of photo etching, the plate is given a photo type coating that has light and dark spots. The dark areas are removed by an acid.
Laser cutting – Laser cutting can create precise and intricate designs. As the name implies, a laser is used to cut a design into metal, regardless of the thickness of the metal. The design is programmed into the laser, which automatically cuts it into a metal plate. The process is very quick and accurate.
Screen printing – In screen printing, an image or design is placed on a screen that is tightly drawn across a frame. The screen is placed against the metal plate and ink is applied transferring the image to the metal plate. The process is very easy and quick. The only drawback is it can only use one color.
Powder coating – In powder coating, an electrical charge is sent through the metal to receive the powder. An opposite charge is used on the powder that is sprayed on the metal. The metal, with the image, is baked permanently affixing the image to the metal. The final product is highly resistant to scratches and chemicals making it very durable and long-lasting.
These are a few of the different processes to create nameplates. The quality and appearance of the final product depend on the method you choose, which should include its purpose and function. Nameplates for work environments with dirt and grim have to be more sturdy than ones for elevators or doorways.
Stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, and brass are a few of the substances used to manufacture nameplates. Most producers offer several varieties of materials to meet the needs of a customer's design. Basically, any flat material that can be printed on can be used to make a nameplate. The only restriction is the process since some methods only accept certain kinds of material.
Different types of nameplates -
Nameplates are used for product logos, machine identification, safety labels, and other applications. Industry and manufacturing rely on them to identify machinery and provide safety information. When properly designed, they can prevent errors and supply accurate data.
An important part of any commercial or industrial business is inventory control. Keeping track of heavy equipment can be difficult because of its constant use, unclean environments, and surrounding activity. Metal nameplates are perfect for such conditions and far more durable than simple paper stickers. The part number, name, bar code, or other identifying information can be etched into a nameplate to be permanently attached to the equipment.
By law, modern industry has to post warning signs regarding chemicals, unsafe practices, or dangerous areas. The signs identifying these locations need to be long-lasting and durable. To protect workers and visitors, companies purchase permanent metal signs or nameplates as warnings that are strategically placed to offer information about imminent danger.
There has been an explosion of different methods for displaying company logos, which include pins, buttons, coasters, and badges. The purpose of these multiple displays is to keep a company's image constantly in the public eye. The goal of nameplate producers is to help companies discover the value of using these different methods.
Name tags have come a long way from the simple pin. Though their purpose may be to identify the wearer, they can also be used to announce promotions. An excellent quality etched name tag gives customers a feeling of confidence and security. Some companies create new etched name tags announcing a new promotion or event to serve as a small reminder.
We may tend to think of nameplates as being simple identifiers. In reality, they have a grander meaning beyond simply identifying a person and can serve as a means of controlling inventory and keeping people safe.