Your Professional Metal Nameplate Manufacturer
Experienced Factory
OEM Licenseplate Co., Ltd has more than 20 years of experience in making custom number plates, license plates, license plate frames, traffic signs, road signs, and metal nameplate signs for car dealers, governments, and consumers around the world.
Competitive Price
Over the years we have become able to provide high-quality number plates with an excellent level of service at a very competitive price. we believe that we can offer you the cheapest number plates in the world.
OEM and ODM Available
We are capable of immediate make-to-order according to the customer’s sample, image, or sketch. Our design team can turn out accurate samples effectively.
24 Hours Online Response
We have set up a dedicated customer service team to provide customer service 24 hours a day, so your after-sales problems can be responded to quickly.
A metal nameplate, also known as a metal tag or metal label, is a small, flat piece of metal that is typically engraved, stamped, etched, or embossed with personalized information or identification. It serves as a durable and long-lasting way to label and identify various items, products, or equipment. Metal nameplates are commonly made of materials like aluminum, stainless steel, brass, or bronze.
Metal nameplates have a wide range of applications across various industries. They can be used for branding purposes, product identification, serial numbers, model names, instructions, warnings, or any other necessary information.
4 Elements of Nameplate Design
Substrate
The most common metal used for nameplates, ID Plates and badges is aluminum since it is lightweight and recyclable. Other metals like brass or stainless steel can be used depending on the type of application. Lightweight flexible plastic materials can be reviewed as well, especially if backlit graphics or functional buttons are needed.
Size and Shape
The options in size and shape for nameplates are wide open and it is not necessary to feel trapped by standards. You can design an emblem to follow common shapes; or step out of the box by using the shape to draw attention, stand out from the crowd and enhance the product design. Size is just as flexible. Keep in mind what you need to display for graphics and text to make sure these are legible and clear.
Artwork Files
- The artwork file is one of the most important pieces of communication with your nameplate supplier. This details the dimensions, colors, decoration, and graphics that are needed so that your message and look is carried to the market correctly.
- Color - Specify color with specific Pantone (PMS) color and their locations. If PMS color is not available, provide a reference to the color target. A McLoone standard color may be used. A color chip may be necessary for review and sign off.
- Fonts - Convert all fonts to curves and include with the artwork files to avoid any discrepancies.
- Gloss Level - Specify whether all over or selective and if low (matte) or high gloss is required.
- Graphics and images - Save all images at high resolution, at 100% scale and in vector format. Be sure to have a minimum line thickness of .007" and keep any graphic or text at least .045" away from any edge or cutout area.
Attachment Options
Whether you are designing a flat metal nameplate, backlit polycarbonate overlay or an embossed product identification badge, attachment to the product should be one of the checklist items to review. A secure bond with adhesive is a common solution. Metal nameplates can be tooled with holes or notches to accommodate attachment with rivets or screws.
Applications of Metal Nameplates
Corporate Nameplates
Leave printed posters behind. Your company’s name grabs attention and imbues presence and power through a metal nameplate. With the right adhesive backing or wall fastener, corporate nameplates can be mounted in strategic branding locations beyond just the lobby. What’s more, the right metal nameplate partner can scale down larger versions of company branding signs into smaller logos or machinery, boxed products, and more, keeping branding consistent and further elevating metal nameplate impact.
Permanent Safety Signs
Fire-exit labels, warning signs, eyewash station designations, PPE-outfitting areas, traffic route labels on warehouse floors — the list of ways metal nameplates can be turned into long-lasting, regulatory and compliant safety signs is vast.
Operating Instructions, Tags and Plates
Metal nameplates are a dynamic way to add weatherable instructions on tools, equipment and more. This is particularly great for items installed in harsher environments, near heat or those requiring in-the-moment, on-hand instruction, such as certain metal valve plates or pump tags in boiler rooms.
Machine Labels
As noted above, machine labels are staple applications for metal tags and nameplates. From household and commercial appliances to industrial equipment and machinery, this high-use, highly robust pieces of equipment require equally robust branding.
Machine Labels
As noted above, machine labels are staple applications for metal tags and nameplates. From household and commercial appliances to industrial equipment and machinery, this high-use, highly robust pieces of equipment require equally robust branding.
Serialized or Product Identification Plates
For products used in demanding and harsh environments, things like product identification information, serial numbers and company information cannot fade. These directly comply with industry regulatory standards as well as are required for proper machine handling and maintenance. Metal plates ensure product and printed or stamped serial IDs last as long as the machine does, regardless of surrounding conditions.
Different Types of Printed Nameplates and Their Uses
Printed nameplates include those that are manufactured using digital printers, silk screens and more. Here are some of the different printed nameplates we carry and where these are ideally used:
Typically called labels due to the fact that these are first manufactured using paper, vinyl or aluminum foil, these nameplates are first printed with the design or information needed on them before these get a resin coating that makes it get its domed form. This clear resin coating helps give it the 3d appearance it needs, and also helps protect the printed information on it as well.
These are manufactured using digital printing or stonewear process, depending on where these plates are to be used as well as on the specifications of the client ordering them. While these may sometimes be manufactured using a combination of methods that include embossing, engraving and stamping, most of the components on these kinds of plates are usually printed on.
These are also crafted using a variety of printing methods that include digital printing, stonewear, silkscreening and photosensitizing. The method chosen by the customer for their promotional plates also has a bearing on how long these will last when exposed to the elements, where these are ideally used and the cost of manufacturing as well.
The information on these plates are vital to the safety of the persons using the machinery or equipment these are on, hence the need for a printing process that is durable and can last a long time even in the worst of weathers and situations. These plates need to withstand grease, grime, chemicals, abrasions and dents, so the best possible printing processes that should be used on these are those that are considered highly durable and rather impervious to these problems. Some of the choices include stonewear, photosensitizing and digital printing with protective overlay.
Popular Metal Nameplate Options
There are many different kinds of materials that can be used for nameplates, such as metal, plastic, polyester, vinyl, paper stock, and more. There are different types of metal to make nameplates:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel can be used for cookware and kitchen utensils, but it is also commonly used in military place cards, control panels, and designation plates. It is strong, durable, and known for its long-lasting, tarnish, and rust-proof material. These characteristics are what set stainless steel apart from other metal nameplate options.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a very popular metal nameplate option because it is highly versatile, durable, and lightweight. Since it is non-ferrous and can be combined with metals like zinc and copper, these alloys are ideal for industrial use because they can withstand harsh environments and heavy use.
It can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications and has a hard, attractive finish. Equipment asset tags are commonly composed of aluminum.
Aluminum Finishes
There are a few different types of aluminum finishes for metal nameplates, including anodized (sealed) aluminum, unsealed aluminum, and photosensitive aluminum.
Anodized aluminum is lightweight, durable, and can be customized with colors and designs. These are typically used for instructional tags, serial numbers and corporate identity tags, scales, dials, templates, and rating plates.
Unsealed aluminum, also known as undyed aluminum, is a porous finish that is designed to conform to military requirements and other specifications.
Photosensitive aluminum finishes are used to create metal nameplates with high-resolution images that are durable and applicable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Brass
As an alloy constructed from copper and zinc, brass is also resistant to corrosion. Due to its red and gold hue, brass is often used for aesthetic purposes. For this reason, it is considered a type of red metal alloy.
In comparison to the alternative – classic gold nameplates – brass nameplates are more affordable and maintain the same decorative quality.
Since brass is a non-sparking material, it is commonly used for applications where sparking is a concern. Plumbing and electrical applications often employ brass materials.
Bronze
Like brass, bronze is also a red metal that is commonly used for decorative purposes. If you are looking for a nameplate with a more reddish hue, then bronze is the perfect choice.
This alloy is tarnish and rustproof, and it is composed of copper mixed with tin. Plus, it is resistant to saltwater corrosion, which makes it the ideal nameplate choice for seaside environments. Bronze is commonly used for custom bronze plaques, badges, and signs.
Types of Pierced Openings for your Nameplate or Overlay
The type of hole that is right for your application can vary depending on what type of attachment you will use. A custom tool operation is needed to configure the location, size and shape of the hole appropriately. The more complex the configuration of holes, the more involved the process which can affect the piece price for the parts. Pierced openings are options in both metal and plastic substrates. The most common shapes for holes and cutouts is a circle or square; however, nearly any shape can be done.
Functional Pierced Holes
A hole can be fabricated into a metal nameplate, ID plate or plastic graphic overlay to allow for design elements including LED lights, buttons or other mechanisms. The pierced area gives clearance for the mating surface component to show or push through the nameplate or overlay, making it a functional decorative. Products with nameplates or overlays with this type of hole include medical devices, speedometers and power tools.
Pierced Holes for Attachment
Holes in metal nameplates and ID plates are often placed for attachment purposes instead of adhesive. The hole is spaced so that a specific size rivet or screw fits through and secures the metal badge to the mating surface. These types of holes are typically flat so that the top of the rivet or screw sits on the surface of the metal, hiding the cut edges of the hole. Nameplates on furniture, engines, exhausts or in industrial settings can be found with these types of pierced holes.
Counter Sunk Holes
A counter sunk hole is generally reviewed when the rivet or screw needs to set down inside of the surface of the metal. This requires custom tooling to create the pocket look for the hole or to mill out the hole. The advantage of this is a smoother edge for the hole location. It also can present a die cast alternative look for the metal badge.
How Do We Make Metal Nameplates
We have five process available for creating metal nameplates, depending on the finish you are after.
Digital Anoprint
Full colour CMYK print encapsulated within a sealed aluminium, durable and versatile.
01
Chemical Etching
Creating a depth which can be left natural or infilled with traditional enamel or digitally.
02
Laser Marking
Fast and accurate, this permanent process can be used to add variable data too.
03
General Engraving
Traditional and versatile, this engraving method can achieve depth and detail.
04
Digital Print
Surface print any design to almost any material, with the additions of white and varnish.
05
Things to Consider When Selecting a Metal Nameplate
When selecting a metal nameplate for a product or piece of equipment, there are several design considerations to keep in mind. One important factor is the type of metal to be used, as different metals have different properties that may be more or less suitable for the intended application. Other important factors to consider include the size, shape, and thickness of the nameplate, as well as the type of printing or engraving to be used to create the markings on the nameplate.
Processes
Screen printing, digital printing, and engraving are all suitable processes for metal substrates. However, they vary in how the printing is performed, the colors that can be used, and how well the results will perform in various environments.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is a cost-effective method of placing graphics and colored logos or images onto equipment. It is a multi-step process that involves covering a metal surface with a mesh screen and then using an applicator to apply ink or epoxy. Screen-printed nameplates use spot colors, which is a printing technique for producing line art, logos, and text with clean edges and excellent color control. While the inks used today do withstand wear, sometimes a final coating is necessary to further seal the nameplate. This is particularly useful for nameplates that will be exposed to chemicals and wear.
Digital Printing
Widely regarded as the best option for producing nameplates with unique colors, gradient colors, or halftones, digital printing offers nearly endless opportunities for customization. It is also well suited to a variety of fabrication styles, enabling further customizations such as rounded corners, holes, and adhesives.
Engraving
The engraving process is highly suitable for both metal and plastic nameplates. During this process, a rotating tool gently cuts into the nameplate’s material at the desired depth, following a computer-generated design pattern. Engraving creates a permanent design with less risk of wear compared to ink-printed designs.
If your metal nameplate isn’t too dirty, you can clean it with water and a mild detergent to remove light dust and grime. However, you’ll need to use other methods to clean more stubborn grease or other residues from your metal nameplate, depending on what it’s made from.
Cleaning Anodized Aluminum Custom Metal Nameplates
Anodized aluminum ID plates can withstand harsh environments and are among the easiest equipment nameplates to clean. Dishwashing soap is the best detergent to remove oil and other residues from the surface of an anodized aluminum nameplate. Once you’ve gotten the worst of the dirt off, cut a lemon in half and dip the cut side in finely ground table salt. You can use the lemon as a scrubber to remove stubborn grime and improve the nameplate’s appearance. Once you’re finished, remove any leftover salt from the anodized aluminum nameplate using a clean, dry rag and buff the surface.
Cleaning a Brass Metal Nameplate
Brass metal nameplates tarnish easily, and you’ll need to clean your metal tags regularly to keep them looking good as new. Start by wiping off as much dirt as possible using a damp rag. Next, mix half a cup of vinegar with a teaspoon of fine table salt to make a perfect solution for cleaning your metal nameplates. Gradually add plain flour until you achieve a thick consistency. Spread the mixture all over the nameplate and leave it to work for 10 minutes. Once the mixture has done its work, rinse it off and buff the surface with a clean, dry rag.
Your metal nameplates will need a polish after you’ve finished cleaning them. Toothpaste or a flour and vinegar solution make a good alternative for polishing brass metal nameplates if you don’t have a brass polish on hand.
Cleaning Bronze Custom Metal Nameplates
You can use the same method to clean bronze metal nameplates as you would for a brass nameplate. However, you’ll need to let the vinegar, salt and flour mixture work longer to get them sparkling. Aim to leave the solution on for around 30 minutes before rinsing or wiping it off and buffing with a cloth.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Metal Plates
Stainless steel is a popular material for ID tags because it can withstand harsh conditions, but you’ll still need to care for your data plates to keep them looking top-notch. You can clean stainless steel nameplates with a cloth, warm water and dishwashing soap. Adding a little ammonia to the solution can help remove caked-on grease and grime. As you scrub the plate, work in the direction of the grain to prevent scratches. Once your nameplate is clean, you can wipe it off with a damp cloth and gently buff the surface to get it shining again.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Nameplate
As one of the leading metal nameplate manufacturers and suppliers in China, we warmly welcome you to buy high-grade metal nameplate made in China here from our factory. All customized products are with high quality and low price.