Fabricated Sign Trays

Signage plays a crucial role in attracting customers, conveying information, and establishing brand identity. Fabricated sign trays offer a robust and visually appealing solution for a wide range of applications. This guide delves into the world of fabricated sign trays, exploring their materials, fabrication processes, and benefits.

Unveiling the Materials: Building Blocks of a Sign Tray

The choice of material for your sign tray significantly impacts its durability, aesthetics, and cost. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:

Aluminium Composite Panel (ACP): ACP is a lightweight and cost-effective material composed of two thin aluminium sheets bonded to a polyethylene core. It offers excellent weather resistance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. You can choose from a wide range of standard ACP colors, or unleash your creativity with vinyl wrapping for a personalised touch
Aluminium: Solid aluminium is a strong and weatherproof option, ideal for outdoor signs requiring a sleek and modern aesthetic. For a seamless brand match, aluminium can be powder coated in a variety of colours to perfectly complement your branding. While slightly heavier than ACP, aluminium offers superior rigidity.
Stainless Steel: For a touch of elegance and exceptional durability, stainless steel is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas or environments prone to vandalism. Stainless steel comes in brushed or mirrored finishes, creating a sophisticated look.
Acrylic: Transparent or coloured acrylic can be used for fabricated sign boxes, particularly for illuminated signs. It offers a lightweight and cost-effective option but requires careful handling due to its susceptibility to scratches.

Bringing the Vision to Life: Fabrication Processes

Once you’ve chosen the ideal material for your sign tray, it’s time to explore the fabrication process. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

Design and Cutting: The first step involves creating a digital design of your sign tray. The computer-controlled cutting machine, like a CNC router or laser cutter, precisely carves the chosen material to the desired shape based on the digital design.
Bending and Forming: To achieve bends or curved edges, the chosen material undergoes a meticulous transformation using specialized equipment. This equipment carefully folds or shapes the material to the desired form This ensures a smooth, clean finish and maintains the structural integrity of the sign tray.
Joining and Welding: From welding to riveting and adhesives, the joining technique is carefully chosen based on the size and complexity of the sign tray. For aluminium and stainless steel trays, welding creates a strong and seamless bond. ACP sheets can be joined using specialised adhesives or rivets.
Finishing Touches: After fabrication, the sign tray may undergo a finishing process such as powder coating for aluminium trays or polishing for stainless steel. Vinyl graphics or lettering can be applied to customise the tray further.

The Allure of Fabrication: Advantages of Fabricated Sign Trays

Fabricated sign trays offer numerous advantages over traditional sign-making methods, making them a popular choice for businesses and organizations:

Durability: The robust materials used in sign tray fabrication ensure long-lasting performance. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and UV rays.
Versatility: Fabricated sign trays can be customised in various ways to suit your specific needs. From size and shape to material and finish, you can create a sign tray that perfectly complements your brand identity and environment.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to some traditional signage options, fabricated sign trays offer a cost-effective solution. While the initial investment might be higher than basic printed signs, their durability eliminates the need for frequent replacements.
Illumination Integration: Fabricated sign boxes can be easily designed to incorporate lighting elements such as LED modules. This creates a visually striking sign, especially in low-light conditions, maximising its impact and visibility

Considerations and Maintenance: Ensuring Longevity

While fabricated sign trays offer exceptional durability, some considerations can ensure they last for years to come:

Material Selection: Choosing the right material for your environment is crucial. For example, aluminium offers superior weather resistance compared to acrylic, making it a better choice for outdoor signs.
Professional Installation: Proper installation is essential for ensuring the longevity of your sign tray. Hire a qualified installer who understands the specific requirements for your chosen material and location.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap can help remove dirt and grime, maintaining the sign boxes pristine appearance. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface.