Custom nameplates are an important component of many different types of custom-made electronics. The electronics that use nameplates vary widely in size and application. Some of these electronics are made for indoor use, and will not have to deal with the weather. Some of the other devices are made for outdoor use and will have to be weather resistant to continue working in inclement conditions. It is very important that you get the correct type of nameplate for your application. To learn more about weather-resistant nameplates, read on.
Outdoor Vs. Indoor Nameplates
There are different nameplates suited for outdoor applications than those suited for indoor applications. When you are ordering a nameplate from us, let us know what conditions it will be subjected to. Our professional engineers will be able to recommend the type of nameplate that is best for your application. They are highly experienced in servicing clients that have a wide variety of different needs for their nameplates, so you’ll be able to make an informed recommendation for your situation. There is no one right answer for which nameplate you may need for outdoor applications. It depends on the climate in which you live and the location of the device which needs a nameplate.
Lexan Nameplates
Lexan nameplates are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. They have a wide temperature tolerance, so they are good for a large variety of conditions. They are available in gloss, velvet, and matte finishes. You may want to get the matte finish if the nameplate is in an area that gets a great deal of sun. This will make it easier to read. There are a wide variety of different flammability ratings, so you can get one that is resistant to lightning if the device is in a susceptible area.
Mylar Nameplates
Mylar nameplates, also known as polyester nameplates, are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Like Lexan nameplates, they are available in gloss or matte finishes. The gloss finish is probably the more attractive choice, as long as the device is not in an area that gets a lot of sunlight. The matte finish will make the nameplate easier to read if the area does get a lot of sunlight. Mylar nameplates are very weather-resistant and specifically have excellent UV resistance. This means they will not fade due to the sun’s rays. They are also resistant to chemicals, so you can put them in an area where chemicals may splash onto the device.
Vinyl Nameplates
Vinyl is another popular choice of material for nameplates. It is usually used for indoor applications, as it is not weather-resistant by itself. However, it can be made suitable for outdoor applications. A UV overlaminate can be applied to the vinyl, which would ensure that the nameplate does not fate. Vinyl nameplates are available in rigid and flexible makes. The rigid nameplate may be better suited to stand up to inclement weather.
Paper Nameplates
Paper labels are also available for our nameplates. As you might imagine, these labels are not weather-resistant. They are better suited for indoor applications then outdoor applications. The paper labels are available in a wide variety of different paper stocks. Specifically, they are available from 60 lb stock to 100 lb plus stock. The heavier stocks may have some weather-resistant qualities, but they are not made to stand up to inclement weather. One of the other nameplate material options might be better if you need a weather-resistant device.
Weather Resistant Aluminum Nameplates
Aluminum nameplates are possibly the toughest nameplates that we offer. The material is available in thicknesses from three-thousandths (0.003″) of an inch to 32 (0.320″) thousandths of an inch. This is more than enough to stand up to any inclement weather you may encounter. The aluminum is anodized to further increase its resistance to harsh weather. It is available in matte or milled finishes. Matte finish may be the best if it is outdoors because this will increase the readability. Of course, aluminum nameplates can also be used for indoor applications. This attractive material looks good in both indoor and outdoor situations. Not only is aluminum good for resisting harsh weather, but it can also withstand chemical spills as well.
