PLETHORA OF OPTIONS
Back when I first began making signs, aluminum composite panels were not in common usage in the sign industry. Maybe they are a by-product of the space age, and were still in development back then! The only choice for aluminum sign panels used to be solid aluminum of various thicknesses. These heavier, solid aluminum sign options are still here, but along with them is now a plethora of composite options.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY MATERIAL
Aluminum composite material (ACM) is generally less expensive, easier to cut and handle, and typically comes pre-finished. ACM panels are manufactured with a thin veneer of aluminum on both sides of an inner non-aluminum core. I most often use the panels with solid plastic cores. They are very stable outdoors and are very rigid and flat for great-looking, durable signs!
ACM sign panels are great for cut vinyl graphics or digitally printed vinyl. The panels are very versatile and are used for free-standing signs as well as wall signs, and can be used for both interior and exterior applications. They make great signs in various wayfinding sign systems. I’ve used them for both the interior and exterior signage at many local churches. I also have a private university customer that utilizes ACM for kiosk maps, building identification and directional signs, parking signs, and other types of uses around campus.
VERY VERSATILE
Here is a partial list of various situations in which I’ve used ACM panels so far to date: Industrial Safety Signs, Retail Shop Signs, Signs for Medical and Dental Offices, Sign for Law Offices, Signs for Schools, Church Signage, Government Signs.
The panels come in various thicknesses and overall sizes with 1/8″ and 1/4″ being the standards for thickness, and 4′ X 8′, 4′ X 10′, and 5′ X 10′ being the standard overall panel sizes.