Industrial Nameplates | For Use on Equipment, Products & More

The Highest Quality Custom Industrial Nameplates for Your Business

In business since 1958, Hallmark Nameplate is a leading custom printer and industrial nameplate manufacturer. We deliver nameplates for many different applications and industries. We offer a full range of materials, thicknesses, finishes, adhesives, and special processes to meet the demands of the most challenging nameplate applications. With extensive engineering and manufacturing expertise in product identification services, we work with you to create the best industrial equipment nameplates for your application. From metal nameplates for equipment to product nameplates, we're here to exceed your expectations.

A Wealth of Nameplate Knowledge and Expert Advice

There are many kinds of equipment nameplates and the choices can be overwhelming. To make the process easier, we provide comprehensive information about industrial nameplate materials, finishes, special processes, and printing options, with their benefits and recommended uses. The best nameplates for your application will depend on many factors, including usage, environmental conditions, and the information required. We'll work with your team to learn every detail of your application. We will then propose a custom solution that takes the many considerations into account to produce the most appropriate and best quality nameplates for your purpose.

Nameplates for Any Industry and All Applications

We've worked with many industries, from medical and telecommunications to OEM, government and the military, designing and manufacturing Permanent Product Identification Nameplates, Equipment ID Tags, Barcode Tags, Serial Number Nameplates, Product Nameplates of any time, and many other types of nameplates for indoor and/or outdoor use.

We maintain a large inventory of metals and plastics for custom industrial nameplates and can also work with customer-supplied materials. Our state-of-the-art facility includes complete fabrication services, with traditional die-cutting, plotters/cutting tables/digital cutters and laser plotters/cutters. For metal nameplates, we use dies or cut them by hand. We can make nameplates with screw holes, cutouts or windows (transparent areas without ink). Nameplates are available in sheet form or as individual pieces per customer request. We have a robust inspection department to ensure consistently high quality and that your custom industrial nameplates perfectly meet every specification. We also offer first article inspection.

Learn More About Our Capabilities

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Nameplates, Labels, & Decals We Offer

UL Certified & Classified Labels

Screen Printed Nameplates

Pressure Sensitive Labels & Decals

Military Nameplates

Metalphoto Aluminum Nameplates

Graphic Overlays & Dead Fronts

Domed Labels & Decals

Digitally Printed Nameplates & Labels

Digitally Printed Nameplates and Labnels

Industry Certifications and Compliances for Military Nameplates & Asset Labels

We are UL certified, RoHS and ITAR compliant and a 3M Preferred Converter. Other certifications include ISO 13485:2016, ISO 9001:2015 and GPI. We are a major supplier of Military Asset Labels, which are designed to meet the strictest MIL SPEC requirements.

Our Certifications

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include GPI industrial nameplate supplier

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include ISO 13485

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include ISO 9001

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include U L

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include SA

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include ITAR

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include Preferred Converter

Hallmark Nameplate's Certifications include RoHS Compliant machine nameplates

Custom Industrial Nameplates
Personalized Service and Industry Expertise

Learn about the various aspects of custom machine nameplates in this article, and then contact us with your job details for further information, recommendations and a quote.

Our team of experts is here to provide exceptional service and answer your questions. We're a trusted supplier of industrial nameplates for commercial, industrial, government, military, and aerospace applications. We provide personalized service and are committed to the success of our customers.

Our clients for custom nameplates come from a wide range of industries, including Aerospace, Government and Military, Medical Devices, Telecommunications, Transportation, Industrial Manufacturing, OEM Electronic Hardware, and Food Service.

Aerospace – This multi-faceted industry uses a wide variety of labels and nameplates, such as instructional and warning nameplates, aviation tags, schematics, overlays, Lexan labels, and specially designed dials and scales.
Architectural – The building industry requires inventory and asset tags for design and drafting equipment, instructional nameplates for equipment, warning nameplates for dangerous areas and branding tags for drafting plan cases.
Aviation – The aviation industry uses many kinds of nameplates, including parts labels, metal nameplates for model and serial numbers, troubleshooting schematics, instructional nameplates, safety warning nameplates, brand tags, UID tags, barcoded nameplates for electronic components, control panel overlays, and customized dials.
Food Service – Whether it’s a catering company that needs property tags for their equipment that’s used in client facilities, or identification and safety labels for a school cafeteria, food service organizations require nameplates and labels to keep track of supplies and equipment, and to keep workers well-informed and safe.
Government – Municipalities and Utility Equipment – From snowplows and street sweepers to park benches, sanitation equipment, and porta-potties, municipalities have a lot of equipment that needs to be identified and kept track of with assets tags and nameplates. The same is true with furniture, supplies, and equipment in government office buildings. Schools, towns, and organizations must tag their property with their name, address, and contact information, and outdoor nameplates are designed to be resistant to tarnish and corrosion.
Manufacturing – Consumer goods, construction and industrial equipment, food processing and restaurant equipment, IT systems, OEM electronic hardware, telecommunications equipment, etc. – Both for manufacturing facilities and products, there is a strong need for nameplates and labels. This includes barcode and UID nameplates, product branding tags and promotional nameplates with the manufacturer’s name, inventory and asset tags, model and serial number nameplates, tracking labels and tags, metal nameplates for equipment identification, equipment operating instructions and safety warnings, control panel overlays, precision dials and scales, and schematics for troubleshooting.
Medical Devices - This industry requires nameplates, tags, and labels to identify the proper usage of equipment, tools, and substances. They also need instructional and warning labels, UID nameplates and barcodes, model and serial number nameplates, and overlays for their state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic devices. Medical device companies also use chemical resistant labels, in addition to inventory tags, custom dials and scales, and other types of tags.
Military – The branches of the U.S. Armed Forces — Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy — make extensive use of nameplates and asset tags, to identify and keep track of military equipment and supplies. These tags and nameplates must comply with strict military specifications.
Retail – Retail stores use many kinds of tags and nameplates for a variety of applications. The most common are for inventory and tracking purposes and for point-of-sale (POS) and database use. Both require barcode labels to keep track of their products and their sales so that they can know how much product they have on hand and when they must reorder. These barcode labels must be readable by a portable scanning device.
Transportation – Companies such as bus fleets, rapid transit, and commuter rail, railroad car and accessory manufacturers, airport gate and ground transport equipment manufacturers, and luxury motor coach suppliers require heavy-duty nameplates that can stand up to harsh environmental conditions and extreme temperatures, as well as UV exposure. They need serial numbers, ADA and Braille signage, rail placards, barcode asset tags, warning labels, and signs, required DOT/VIN markings, and interior/exterior signs and labels to keep workers and customers informed.

Industrial nameplates aren’t just for company names. They’re used for serialized barcodes and UID plates, product identification, inventory purposes and to display user instructions and critical safety information for equipment operators and consumers. Following is a partial list of nameplate uses.

Asset Tracking for inventory management and theft prevention
Automotive labels (parts labels, oil labels, engine labels)
Block-out labels to cover mistakes on other labels or products (block-out vinyl material)
Branding for small production runs
Cautionary and warning labels for tools or machinery
Data Plates and UID Plates
Dead Fronts, Dead Front Overlays (warning icons which are only visible when illuminated by a light source behind them)
Decorative Nameplates (for branding purposes; marketing)
Dials, scales, and templates for machinery and manufacturing processes
Drilling and mining metal equipment tags
Equipment Asset Tags (with or without barcodes), Equipment Tags, Equipment Labels
Equipment security labels
Furniture and workstation tags
Identification Nameplates
Instructional nameplates, tags, dials, templates, and rating plates
Inventory identification and tracking labels, to maintain better records, control inventory, and simplify bookkeeping
Law labels (product tags with consumer information about product content and manufacture)
Manufacturing labels (shipping labels, inventory labels)
Medical device labels; Medical Equipment labels (for use in sterile environments)
Membrane Switches (and Membrane Switch Panels)
Metal Asset / Property Tags for tools, equipment, and machinery
Metal Asset Tags for Equipment (linear and 2D data matrix, variable information, UID and IUID, bar codes, product markers, inventory for machines, OEM, electronics, merchandise, IT hardware tracking, furniture and workstations, drilling and mining equipment, indoor & outdoor)
Metal logo plates
Model Number Plates and Serial Number Tags (static or variable data)
Overlays (e.g. key embossing, dead fronts for LEDs, selective texturing; they are usually made to adhere to a membrane switch as the human interface – see our Graphic Overlays).
Parts labels
Placards
Private labels for company equipment (“property of”) to prevent theft; can include serial numbers, barcodes, and UID
Product Identification Plates
Product Labels, Markers; Merchandise Tags
Promotional Nameplates (for branding purposes; marketing)
Rating plates (also known as serial plates, data plates, placards, or nameplates) to identify a piece of equipment's manufacturer, serial/model number, date of manufacture, load rating, electrical specifications, operating/maintenance instructions, and other required data
Scannable asset tags
Schematics
Sequential Equipment Tags (transportation inventory, bio-medical equipment, chemical companies, aerospace, marine and oceanic, telecommunications, agribusiness, property management, bank and ATM, utilities, vehicles, forest and botany, gas station, sports, and recreational business; hospital, ambulance, and clinic; equipment assets tags for US Army, USAF, US Navy, and US Coast Guard, International Space Station, other high-stress aluminum asset tags)
Serialized barcodes that can be read by a hand-held scanner
Serialized Inventory Labels
Signage, Company Plaques
Stamped Serial Number metal nameplates
Tamperproof metal asset/property tags – prevents tools, equipment, and machinery from being lost, misplaced, or stolen. It identifies assets and discourages theft. Durable, self-adhesive, tamperproof metal asset tags.
Tracking for IT hardware and equipment
Variable Data Labels
Warning Labels that comply with The American National Safety Institute (ANSI)

The most common materials for industrial nameplates are metal, plastic, and paper. Of our plastic nameplates, Polycarbonate (Lexan®) and Polyester (Mylar®) are the most frequently used. We can also work with customer-supplied materials. Some materials work best for inventory labels and barcode tags, while others are better suited for equipment asset tags, schematics, scales, dials, and overlays.

Our experts at Hallmark Nameplate can work with you to choose the best material, but here are some basic guidelines.

Metal Nameplates
The major advantage of a metal nameplate is that it’s extremely durable. Made with the proper finish, a metal nameplate can withstand the harshest environmental conditions, including many years of outdoor use, and it is resistant to various chemicals, tarnish, rust, and ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Available options for metal nameplates include three-dimensional detailing and custom inks, domed nameplates (Magni-Lens technology) [IS THIS WHAT THEY USE?], and high-end MetalPhoto® nameplates.

Aluminum – Of all the available nameplate materials, aluminum is the most durable, lightweight, versatile, and scratch-resistant, which makes this material one of the most widely used for nameplates. Aluminum can stand up to harsh weather as well as various chemicals. Available in a wide variety of alloys aluminum plates withstand harsh environments and heavy industrial use. Aluminum nameplates can be designed to meet military, ANSI, UL, and CSA specifications. Aluminum is a great nameplate material for clients who want an attractive finish in a hard, tarnish proof and rust-proof material. Aluminum is frequently used for outside applications, but it can also be used inside. Its most common use is for equipment asset tags.

Available Options: Custom die-cut shapes in any thickness; can be fabricated for the bolt, rivet, or screw installation, or can be affixed with a strong adhesive; screen or digital printing; various custom textures and finishes. Thickness range between 0.008 inches and 0.125 inches. The special MetalPhoto® process makes aluminum asset tags especially rugged and easily scannable.

Aluminum is a non-ferrous metal that is often used as an alloy, combined with metals such as copper, zinc, and manganese, to enhance its inherent qualities. Pure aluminum, while rare, can be used corrosion resistance and workability are the key requirements, rather than durability or strength.
Aluminum alloys are available in various series, with four-digit numbers that indicate the use, main features, and amount of aluminum in the alloy. These numbers range from the 1000 series to the 8000 series. The 1000 series contains the greatest amount of aluminum. The 2000 series metals are combined with copper, while the 3000 series metals contain manganese.
Each aluminum series has recommended uses. The 2000 series were made to satisfy aerospace requirements (later replaced by the 7000 series), while the 5000 series is used for marine applications. The 3003 aluminum alloy is ideal for uses that require good corrosion resistance and strength. Other aluminum alloys are available, depending on the requirements. Common alloys are 3003, 5052, and 6061.

Aluminum Finishes:

Anodized Aluminum (Sealed) – Lightweight yet durable, anodized aluminum is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. It’s known for its corrosion and abrasion resistance and is lighter than other metals. Anodized aluminum can be customized with various colors and designs. Color anodizing of an aluminum tag or nameplate converts the finish using a vibrant background color. We offer blue, green, red, yellow, black, and clear, or can create a custom color that matches your brand. Anodized aluminum nameplates are used for instructional tags, serial number and corporate identity tags, scales, dials, templates, and rating plates.
Undyed / Unsealed Aluminum – Designed to conform with military specifications and other requirements [Anything more to say about this?]
PhotoSensitive Aluminum (Photo-Sealed, Clear Sealed, MetalPhoto).
Stainless Steel – Used for cookware and kitchen utensils, this is an extremely strong, long-lasting, tarnish proof and rust-proof material. Durability, versatility, and corrosion resistance sets stainless steel nameplates apart from other metal tags. It is an alloy that’s mostly composed of low-carbon steel and chromium. Other elements, like nickel, titanium, and molybdenum, can be used to enhance the quality. Chromium adds to the “stainless” qualities, while other elements make the material more durable and malleable. Available thicknesses include .018”, .030”, .050”, .062” and .125”.

Stainless steel has 3 main classifications – austenitic, ferritic, and martensitic. Austenitic stainless steel carries 200 and 300 series numbers while ferritic and martensitic classes belong in the 400 series. Nameplates often use the 304 series, which is the most common stainless steel grade and has a composition of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. We also carry 316 series stainless steel, which includes additional molybdenum that helps raise its resistance to more types of corrosion. If you have other alloys in mind for your stainless steel nameplates, these can be made available upon request. Types of stainless steel (304 and 316 – Nameplates Div., pg. 60)

Brass – An attractive and affordable alternative to classic gold nameplates, brass nameplates are constructed from a copper and zinc metal alloy, which makes them resistant to corrosion. It’s similar to bronze, a copper and tin alloy, although brass usually appears more gold, while bronze has a reddish tone. Brass is sometimes chosen for nameplates because of its decorative quality and rich, golden color. Common uses of brass nameplates include plumbing and electrical applications, and for environments where sparks are a concern, as it’s a non-sparking material. Available brass thicknesses are .020”, .025”, .032”, .064” and .125”.
Bronze – Bronze nameplates are rustproof and tarnish proof, and are also resistant to saltwater corrosion, making them a great material for seaside applications. Bronze is formulated from mostly copper and mixed with tin, and this material is like brass, but with a reddish color. Other properties of bronze include malleability and density. It is frequently used for custom bronze plaques, badges, and signs, in addition to other metal nameplate applications. Like brass, bronze is a non-sparking material. Available bronze nameplate thicknesses include .032”, .064”, and .125”.

Plastic Nameplates (Labels)

Plastics are extremely durable and are recommended for certain uses. They can be affixed with strong adhesive or can be fabricated for a bolt, rivet, or screw installation. With sub-surface custom plastic nameplates, the graphics are printed in reverse on the underside of transparent plastic material (sub-surface printing), so that the image is protected by the material. The graphics are then “backed up” with white ink. This makes them resistant to chemicals, oil, and abrasion. These nameplates are printed on flat, rigid sheets of material, typically .010” to .015” thick, although the thickness can range from .005” to .030”.

Plastic nameplates can be used indoors or outdoors. These permanent weatherproof nameplates are commonly called labels, stickers, tags, placards, and overlays. Plastic nameplates can be printed with bar codes, model numbers, serial numbers, property information, and either static or variable data. Plastic nameplates are made with peel tabs for easy application.

Hallmark Nameplates produces a high volume of polycarbonate and polyester nameplates, such as for a commercial aircraft interior manufacturer. The company makes virtually all the velvet polycarbonate (Lexan) placards that are found inside aircraft cabins (i.e. “No Smoking,” “No Stowage” and weight restrictions).

Polycarbonate (Lexan®) – Lexan is a polycarbonate resin thermoplastic material that’s transparent, strong, tough, impact-resistant, and temperature resistant. Lexan is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It’s the best material to use where extreme temperatures and widely varying temperatures are a concern. This material is also resistant to scratches, corrosion, chemical abrasion, and water, and it expands and contracts without damaging the material.

Polycarbonate labels provide exceptional optical clarity, color reproduction, depth effect, graphic design flexibility, printability, and dimensional stability. A common use of Lexan nameplates is as asset tags, in addition to other types of nameplates and labels. Polycarbonate nameplates are perfect for highly detailed printing.

Lexan nameplates come in various grades, including special textures for certain applications. A polished grade is available for panels and arrays used in LED or LCD display windows, medical packaging, audio/video equipment control panels, and home appliances. This material is also widely used for other consumer electronics and indoor displays.

Polycarbonate is also an eco-friendly material, and it can be flame retardant, UV resistant, and compliant with FDA and USP regulations.

Available options for polycarbonate nameplates include thickness/gauge variations (.005” - .030”), die-cutting, and various finishes and textures. You can choose from clear/high gloss, matte/different degrees, anti-glare, satin, or velvet finish. Lexan nameplates are typically transparent or white.

Selective texture, as well as selective adhesives, are available. These tags can be made to UL® or CSA-approved specifications.

Polyester (Mylar®) – Polyester, also known as Mylar, is ideal for harsh indoor and outdoor environments, since it’s UV resistant, won’t fade in the sun, non-yellowing, electrical resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures, water, abrasion, and chemicals. This extremely durable and highly versatile material can meet rigorous specifications for high tensile strength, durability, resistance to solvents, clarity, resistance to shrinking and stretching, and low electrical conduction. It also resists tears and won’t become brittle when used outdoors. Mylar is well suited for commercial as well as industrial applications.

Common uses for Mylar nameplates include asset tags, product identification, electronics, packaging, magnetic media, imaging, and graphing. Mylar can also be used to create protective overlays. Mylar material is available in many variants, such as plain, metalized, anti-static, adhesion treated and barrier coated.

Mylar options include foil (?), metalized (?), and domed. Polyester nameplates are available in transparent or white, and with different finishes and textures such as chrome, brushed silver, glossy, matte, and anti-glare/velvet (Autotex®, AutoFlex™, Autotype) [DID I WORD THIS CORRECTLY? NEED CLARITY ON THESE – and if there’s such a finish such as “Autotype”]. Domed Mylar ID labels can include serial numbering and they can be used with adhesives or include holes or slots for fastening. Available thicknesses are .003” to .010”.

Vinyl (PVC) – PVC vinyl, also known as polyvinyl chloride, is very rigid and extremely durable. However, unless it has UV overlaminate protection, it isn’t suitable for outdoor use. Properties of PVC include resistance to moisture and humidity as well as low cost. There’s also magnetic vinyl, convex vinyl, fluorescent vinyl, reflective vinyl, and glow-in-the-dark phosphorescent vinyl. [DOES HALLMARK OFFER ANY OF THESE TYPES?]

Custom vinyl labels, due to their versatility, are frequently used for indoor and outdoor applications. Although it’s harder to recycle than other plastics, vinyl can be melted down and reused, so it’s considered a recyclable product.

PVC vinyl nameplates are available in transparent, white, and various colors, and with different finishes and textures like glossy, velvet, and matte. Vinyl labels can be ordered in different thicknesses. We also offer Scotchcal destructive vinyl labels, Scotchlite destructive and reflective vinyl labels, and Tyvek vinyl labels. PVC accepts different adhesives and can include holes or slots for screws.

Scotchcal™ Destructive Labels – Destructive vinyl is frequently used for tamper-evident labels. This material is designed to break apart when removed from its surface. This deters theft, counterfeiting, and asset transfers. However, this is not the only usage of destructible nameplates. They can also be used for asset and inventory tags, warranty seals, package seals and shipping labels, license tags, and calibration tags. The topcoat of these labels protects the label from dirt and grime.

Scotchlite™ Destructive and Reflective Labels – Scotchlite labels are both destructible and reflective, with the same high quality and durability as the Scotchcal destructive labels.

Tyvek® Labels – Manufactured by 3M from high-density polyethylene fibers, Tyvek provides exceptional strength, durability, tear resistance, water-resistance, and resistance to harsh environments. Tyvek can be used for identification tags and labels, warning labels, warranty labels, use labels, care labels, and instruction labels, in addition to various kinds of tags.

Paper Stock – Designed from 60 lb. to 100 lb. plus stock, paper labels are more appropriate for indoor use. The heavier stocks may offer some weather resistance, but they’re not made for harsh weather conditions.

Clear-Sealed Aluminum (Photo-Sealed Aluminum)

Clear-sealed aluminum is a metal nameplate that has an ink screen printed onto the surface, which is then sealed with a protective anodized layer. This process creates a label with a permanent image that can’t be scratched or removed.

MetalPhoto®

MetalPhoto is a special process for aluminum nameplates. The aluminum can be anodized and sealed for resistance al all harsh environments, including extreme temperatures of -85 to 257 degrees Fahrenheit), all weather conditions, UV, fungus, salt spray, corrosion, acids, stains, abrasives, chemicals, and solvents.

Photographic quality MetalPhoto nameplates do not involve any printing. Graphics are transferred onto the metal using a film negative that’s similar to traditional photo processing. MetalPhoto aluminum nameplates are available in various sizes, shapes, colors, finishes, and aluminum alloys. Learn more about MetalPhoto Nameplates.

Domed Nameplates (Magni-Lens technology)

We offer versatile, durable, and visually appealing domed nameplates that are made with Magni-Lens® technology. Custom domed nameplates have a 3D effect that stands out to create a strong brand design. In this process, a thick coat of polyurethane (formulated from a resin and a catalyst) is added to the surface of the design, creating a dome that stands 0.06” tall.

What are the advantages of domed nameplates?
Magni-Lens doming provides both visual and performance benefits. The underlying graphics have a richer appearance and pronounced depth of field with a high gloss, and the label can withstand the harshest environments and is resistant to scratches, peeling dirt, and UV exposure.

Domed nameplates are extremely rugged, resistant to moisture and chemicals, easy to sanitize and clean, and won’t deform due to heat or fluctuating temperatures. Magni-Lens doming adheres to a wide variety of substrates, such as aluminum, stainless steel, vinyl, polycarbonate, and polyester, which makes it a smart choice for indoor or outdoor applications.

What industries use domed nameplates?
Domed labels are used in many different industries, from automotive and appliance manufacturing to electronics, industrial equipment, and medical devices. These are effective labels for marketing, branding, or advertising purposes. Domed nameplates can be made to accommodate mechanical switches or LEDs, and they can also be used with an LCD as a protective covering.

Note: Although custom domed nameplates are very durable, extended sunlight exposure may cause damage to the underlying print. Because of this, we recommend domed labels for indoor applications. However, we can recommend appropriate labels for outdoor use.

Printing Processes

Screen Printing – This is an economical process that can be used to create graphics and colored logos, with a wide range of color possibilities. Polyester or enamel inks are printed on metal, followed by baked varnishes for added durability.

How does screen printing work? The metal surface is covered with a mesh screen, which is used as a stencil. An applicator applies the inks and epoxies onto the metal tag. In the last step, a surface coat is applied, which seals in the color and enhances the nameplate’s lifespan.

Screen printing can be used on stainless steel, aluminum, and brass. Aluminum is the most common. Screen-printed nameplates withstand harsh environmental conditions and can be used indoors or outdoors.

Screen printing uses ink on the metal surface for full-color designs with a look that stands out. (Metal Marker Mfg)

Screen printing nameplates and graphic overlays are usually the most cost-effective type of printing for metal and plastic nameplates.

Screen printing nameplates and graphic overlays (link to separate page) are usually the most cost-effective method of imaging on metals and plastics. A polyester screen is created with a stencil that allows epoxy inks to be printed in specific areas. Our computerized color matching system can match almost any color. A common method of defining colors is to use the Pantone Color Matching System (PMS). (Nelson, pg. 55)

The Four Color Process, or CMYK color printing, is a manufacturing procedure that uses screens and filters to separate a color image into 4 individual color values. This is called color separation. What was once done with a graphics art camera can now be done with the help of software that can be used to control printers that place the four distinct colors — cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK) — into the right areas to produce the correct colors for the design.

This process uses four plates, one for each color, to create the precise designs that are being asked for. Each different-colored plate is applied one at a time, with precision and accuracy being the key to creating very detailed and correctly crafted images, copies, and designs. If there is a misalignment to one color application, the result is a blurry or hazy design. Properly aligned plates will result in a sharp and clear image or copy on your labels and plates.

To simplify, here are some key features of this manufacturing process:

Four standard colors (CMYK) are used all the time
Designs are made with the printing of tiny dots at different angles on the surface of the material
Considered the most cost-effective method for printing colored designs
Cheaper than toner-based printing methods

Digital Printing

- Digital printing allows for unique data such as QR Codes, Barcodes, and Portable Data Files.
- Allows for full-color designs.
- Digital printing is recommended for companies that have logos with intricate color designs like gradients.
- Rounded corners, adhesives, holes, and other fabrication can still be done with many digitally printed labels.

Custom digital labels are created using an eco-friendly, 4-color process, avoiding the use of screens, printing plates, and limiting ink cartridges. This process is used to create vibrant colors and graphics while maintaining high-quality labels. The ability to digitally print on these labels allows us to offer an affordable printing option with short run times. Our custom printed digital labels are printed with a flatbed printer that is environmentally friendly and offers a cost-effective solution for the marking medium.

Custom printed digital labels can be printed onto paper, plastic, or metal and still maintain great color. The CMYK+W process prints precise and clean text, bringing out the color and detail of your custom label. These labels can be applied to various types of materials including aluminum, steel, plastic, wood, ceramic, and more. The shape of the label is of no concern as our machines can custom cut almost any shape. Our unique printing process allows for much more flexibility and personalization to suit your project specifications.

To add an appealing feature and have your product stand out from your competitors, both plastic and metal nameplates can be coated with polyurethane, creating 3D domed nameplates effect. If you are looking for a metal nameplate, such as aluminum, brass, or stainless steel, you might also want to consider an anodized nameplate.

Not only can we provide you with various custom nameplates, but we also have much available printing and marking processes. Each marking procedure comes with ideal features for specific uses. For example, photosensitive plates (MetalPhoto) can not only give you fine detail but also last for a very long time even when exposed to harsh conditions.

Nameplates Materials & Finishes

Durable Plastic Nameplates

Hallmark Nameplate produces a high volume of polycarbonate and polyester nameplates. One of our clients is a commercial aircraft interior manufacturer. The company makes virtually all the velvet polycarbonate (Lexan) placards that are found inside aircraft cabins (i.e. "No Smoking," "No Stowage" and signs with weight restrictions). We also offer vinyl (PVC) labels.

In addition to the materials mentioned, we can work with customer-supplied custom materials. It's rare that we get a request for a material that we can't print on! If we don't have it in stock, we can order it.

Depending upon the application and variables such as indoor or outdoor environment, proximity to harsh cleaners and other chemicals, industry specifications and branding requirements, our nameplate specialists will recommend the material and finish best suited to your company's needs.

Polycarbonate (Lexan™)

Vinyl (PVC)

Polyester (Mylar®)

Durable Aluminum Nameplates

Hallmark Nameplate offers premium quality aluminum nameplates in different alloys and finishes. We also offer Metalphoto® nameplates, which are made from photosensitive anodized aluminum.

Of all the available nameplate materials, aluminum is extremely durable, lightweight, versatile, and scratch-resistant, which makes it one of the most widely used materials for nameplates. Aluminum nameplates can stand up to harsh weather, various chemicals, and heavy usage. They can last for many years. Our aluminum nameplates are available in 1000, 1100, 1145, and 5005 aluminum alloys.

Aluminum tags withstand harsh environments and heavy industrial use. Aluminum nameplates can be designed to meet military, ANSI, UL, and CSA specifications. Aluminum is a great nameplate material for clients that want an attractive finish in a hard, tarnish proof and rust-proof material. Aluminum is frequently used for outside applications, but it can also be used inside. Its most common use is for equipment asset tags.

Learn More About Aluminum Nameplates

Metalphoto Nameplates – Photosensitive Anodized Aluminum Labels

Metalphoto® is recommended for nameplates that must be extremely durable and unaffected by harsh indoor and outdoor conditions, with high-resolution graphics. Metalphoto nameplates are made from 1100 alloy anodized aluminum, using a special process that doesn’t involve traditional printing. Instead, the image is sealed inside photosensitive, anodized aluminum, which makes the nameplate resistant to UV exposure, high temperatures, chemicals, abrasion, and corrosion. The graphics have the appearance of printed ink but with far greater longevity. Metalphoto nameplates are rated for at least 20 years of outdoor use. Regardless of the environment, the nameplate design won’t ever fade or wear off. This means fewer nameplate replacements and greater compliance with regulatory requirements.

The resilience and lightweight nature of Metalphoto nameplates, and their adherence to strict specifications, make them especially ideal for the aerospace industry. Metalphoto is widely used by the military, government organizations, and the world’s leading OEMs. In addition to Metalphoto nameplates, photo-anodized aluminum can also be used to create rugged, high-resolution control panels, labels, and signs.

Since the image is sealed inside the anodized aluminum and is not printed on top nor etched in, the graphics remain crisp regardless of age or environmental conditions, and the nameplate surface is smooth to the touch. Metalphoto labels are engineered for optimal readability through virtually any operating conditions.

Because of Metalphoto’s proven performance, most industrial, military, and government organizations have specified it for their asset tags and for other applications for more than 65 years. Metalphoto tags are used on everything from offshore oil rigs to NASA’s space station.

Metalphoto Nameplate Uses

There are many uses for Metalphoto. In addition to nameplates, the Metalphoto process is frequently used for control panels and faceplates, product, and equipment ID plates, exterior and interior signs, caution and warning plaques, scales and dials, asset tags, serial number and model number tags, labels with operating procedures, VIN plates, computer tags, bar code labels, and UID data matrix codes.

Metalphoto is widely used for any nameplates that require strict compliance with specifications, such as aircraft labels, off-highway equipment nameplates, military, and commercial ship placards, trailer and shipping container VIN tags, service schematics, load and rating plates, and machine control panels. If you’re looking for a nameplate that provides lasting identification and brand recognition, Metalphoto is a smart choice.

Metalphoto Specifications

The Metalphoto® material is 1100 alloy anodized aluminum. It’s available in thicknesses ranging from .003” to .125” and can be fabricated in any size or shape that’s required. Metalphoto tags can be attached to many kinds of materials with either mechanical fasteners or adhesives. They’re ideal when permanent identification of a product, asset, or process is critical. Metalphoto labels, signs, nameplates, or machine control panels are designed to last throughout the life of the part. For organizations with environmental initiatives, aluminum is a completely recyclable product.

Available Metalphoto finishes include:

Matte – Dull finish; non-reflective and non-glare
Satin – Semi-gloss; medium-reflective; slight grain
#4 – Brushed finish that resembles stainless steel
Gloss – Mirror-like; highly reflective

Bar code labels typically use the matte finish, whereas equipment panels, nameplates, and signs frequently specify the satin finish. A high gloss finish is often used for plaques and awards.

Metalphoto nameplates are resistant to:

Abrasion
Accelerated light and weather
Accelerated oxygen aging
Acids
Cleaning solutions
Fungus
Graffiti
Heat and high temperatures up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit
Low temperatures
Moisture
Organic solvents
Saltwater corrosion
Stains
Thermal shock
Ultraviolet radiation (UV)

Metalphoto Receives the Highest Rating from the U.S. Navy

In 2011, the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Corona Division, completed a year-long study of 26 commercially available label materials, including Metalphoto. They wanted to determine the environmental survivability of these materials when used as nameplates for Item Unique Identification (IUID). The Navy requires all military assets that are specified under MIL-STD-130 to be marked with a unique barcode that can survive the life expectancy of the equipment it’s attached to. Tested materials included acrylic, polyester, ceramic coated stainless steel, and Metalphoto photosensitive anodized aluminum. These labels were tested for their resistance to abrasion, wide temperature ranges, chemicals, chipping, and salt fog. Except for immersion in MIBK solvent, which none of the labels could withstand, Metalphoto was the only material that passed all tests, and it earned the highest score.

The Metalphoto Nameplate Process

Metalphoto nameplates are made from unsealed pure 1100 alloy anodized aluminum, which is porous in nature. A sub-surface image is created, by exposing and developing an anodized layer that’s saturated with photosensitive silver compounds. The portions of the image that are exposed to light turn black, while any unexposed areas remain the color of the aluminum plate. This is similar to conventional black and white photography. The anodized layer is then sealed, which protects the image inside the hard oxide layer.

The Metalphoto nameplate printing process is as follows:

Graphics are designed
High-contrast film negatives are generated
Anodized Metalphoto plate is exposed to the film negative
Image is developed and fixed, and the plate is rinsed
Metalphoto plate is sealed with a special solution
The nameplate is fabricated and finished

Military, Industrial, and Government Specifications for Metalphoto Nameplates:

Federal Specification GGP-455B
MIL-DTL-15024F
MIL-DTL-19834C
MIL-P-6906B
MIL-A-8625F
MIL-STD-130N
MIL-P-19834B
A-A-50271 Class-2 Composition C
SAE-AMS-QQ-A-250/1
UL, REACH, and RoHS Certified

Metalphoto is specified by these companies:

Department of Defense
Lockheed Martin
Honeywell
Boeing
S. Army
BF Goodrich
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)
NASA
Sikorsky (United Technologies)
General Dynamics

Premium Metalphoto Nameplates for Your Organization

Contact Hallmark Nameplate to discuss your label, nameplate, or control panel project, and to learn more about the benefits of Metalphoto. With more than 60 years of expertise in designing nameplates for every indoor and outdoor environment, we can recommend the best solution for your application and requirements. We will work closely with your team from the design phase through project completion.

Metalphoto Features (test)

Durable and Long-Lasting – The image, which is silver-halide based, is embedded and sealed inside the anodized aluminum. This image remains clear and readable even after long-term exposure to harsh environmental conditions like extreme weather, sunlight and UV, heat, chemicals, oil, paint, abrasion, dirt and salt spray. The aluminum base is extremely rigid and won’t crack, peel or delaminate.

Photographic Resolution – High image resolution enables the printing of small marks, with the option to print security features like watermarks and micro text to verify authenticity. This also allows for very small printing where surface area is limited.

Supports Variable Information – Metalphoto nameplates and labels can be used for unique serialized data, barcodes with any type of symbols or special instructions. This ability streamlines asset tracking and reduces the chance of data entry errors.

Choose Your Finish

Velvet

Protect your label with a rugged material finish or overlaminate for polycarbonate (lexan), vinyl, and polyester (mylar) subtrates

Gloss

Make your graphics stand out with a reflective surface finish. Selective combinations of finishes are available.

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The Hallmark Difference

When you choose Hallmark Nameplate, you'll get an expert team, backed by more than 60 years of experience, that will seamlessly integrate with your organization. We walk you through the entire development process to ensure that you have the right nameplate for your specific needs and application.

Contact us now, tell us about your project, and get a comprehensive quote with all your questions and concerns answered. We look forward to working with you!

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FAQ

What types of materials do you offer and which one is right for my application?

The most common materials for industrial nameplates are metal, plastic, and paper. Our experts at Hallmark Nameplate can work with you to choose the best material, but here are some basic guidelines:

The major advantage of a metal nameplate is that it’s extremely durable.
- Of all the available nameplate materials, aluminum is the most durable, lightweight, versatile, and scratch-resistant, which makes this material one of the most widely used for nameplates. Aluminum is frequently used for outside applications, but it can also be used inside.
- Common uses of brass nameplates include plumbing and electrical applications, and for environments where sparks are a concern, as it’s a non-sparking material.
- Bronze nameplates are rustproof and tarnish proof, and are also resistant to saltwater corrosion, making them a great material for seaside applications. Like brass, bronze is a non-sparking material.
Plastics are extremely durable and are recommended for certain uses. These permanent weatherproof nameplates are commonly called labels, stickers, tags, placards, and overlays.
- Polycarbonate (Lexan®) – Lexan is transparent, strong, tough, impact-resistant, and temperature resistant. Polycarbonate is also an eco-friendly material, and it can be flame retardant, UV resistant, and compliant with FDA and USP regulations.
- Polyester (Mylar®) – Polyester, also known as Mylar, is ideal for harsh indoor and outdoor environments, since it’s UV resistant, won’t fade in the sun, is non-yellowing, is electrical resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures, water, abrasion, and chemicals.
- Vinyl (PVC) and Paper Stock are best for indoor use.

What adhesive is right for my application?

The best adhesive for your nameplates will depend upon your final application.

The Hallmark Nameplate team will recommend an adhesive based on certain considerations, such as:

Permanent or repositionable adhesive.
Pressure-sensitive or heat-activated adhesive.
The shape of the surface that the nameplate will be applied to – flat or curved – as well as surface rigidity.
The texture of the surface – smooth or rough. Rough surfaces usually call for an LSE adhesive (Low Surface Energy, which is thicker and more “aggressive.”)
Location – indoor or outdoor. If the nameplates will be used outdoors, then the adhesive must be UV resistant and/or water resistant.
Chemical resistance is required.
High or low-temperature environments.

Most of our nameplates use either 3M™ 467MP or 3M 468MP adhesives.

3M 467MP – Benefits include excellent shear strength to resist edge lifting and slippage, and superior adhesion to metals, and high surface energy (HSE) plastics such as ABS, acrylic, polycarbonate, and PVC. It also offers very high resistance to humidity, moisture, chemicals, solvents, and hot/cold temperatures. It’s recommended by 3M for long-term bonding of nameplates and overlays, metal nameplates, serial, and rating plates.
468MP adhesive transfer tape features thicker adhesives to improve wet-out and adhesion on irregular or textured surfaces.

In addition to high-performance adhesive backing, screw holes or cut-outs may be added to nameplates for screws or other fasteners. The best option will depend on the mounting surface, environment, and exposure to extreme weather, sunlight, pollution, or industrial solvents.

Can you match our colors, and how do you match colors?

Yes, we can! At Hallmark Nameplate, we have an in-house graphics department that can expertly design artwork and graphics for your organization that matches your company logo and colors. We can also display your company logo for a superior brand identity. Labels are precisely color-matched using standard or coated (glossy) Pantone Color Matching System (PMS).

The Four Color Process, or CMYK color printing, is a manufacturing procedure that uses screens and filters to separate a color image into 4 individual color values, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK), into the right areas to produce the correct colors for the design.

Our Digital Printing process allows for full-color designs. Digital printing is recommended for companies that have logos with intricate color designs like gradients. Custom digital labels are created using an eco-friendly, 4-color process, avoiding the use of screens, printing plates, and limiting ink cartridges. This process is used to create vibrant colors and graphics while maintaining high-quality labels.

What can I clean these with & are they solvent resistant?

Metal nameplates are very durable and can withstand routine cleaning with chemicals when the right finish is used. Most plastic nameplates are also resistant to chemicals.

For example, when you use the 3M 467MP adhesive, it is resistant to solvents.

While most nameplates can be cleaned with household cleaning products, many of our nameplates are also able to withstand medical-grade cleaners as well.

What certifications do you meet?

What is the high/low-temperature rating for this material?

What is your typical turn around time?

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