Have you ever admired a sleek, professional-looking sign and wondered about the material behind it? There’s a good chance you were looking at aluminum composite material. (ACM), known for its durability, versatility, and modern appearance, is a popular choice for creating signs that leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re designing business signage, or something for your next big event, aluminum composite offers a winning combination of style and practicality. Let’s take a closer look at some frequently asked questions to answer some of yours.
An aluminum composite sign is a type of signage made from aluminum composite material (ACM), which is made up of three layers: Two outer layers of aluminum that give a smooth surface and make the material rigid yet lightweight. A core of polyethylene (or fire resistant material) between the aluminum layers that adds stability and keeps the weight low.
ACMs are durable but not as strong as solid aluminum sheets. The plastic core is more prone to damage in high impact situations. For structural strength solid aluminum is stronger due to its solid construction and can bear heavy loads. However, for many practical applications like signage and displays ACM is “strong enough” while being lighter, easier to handle and more cost effective.
Street signs are made from 5052-H38 aluminum which is known for its strength so it is also resistant to vandalism. The thickness of the aluminium used for street signs can vary but the most common thicknesses are .080 in, .100 in and .125 in.
The life of an aluminum composite panel (ACP) can vary but generally around 10-15 years, and with high quality PVDF coating 15-20 years or more with minimal maintenance.
(ACM) can last outdoors for 10-15 years with proper care and maintenance depending on the coating quality and environmental conditions; high quality ACM panels with PVDF coating can last even longer 20 years or more.
No, aluminum composite material (ACM) is rust proof and corrosion resistant. Aluminum is naturally corrosion resistant because it forms a thin layer of aluminium oxide when exposed to air which protects the surface from environmental elements.
Aluminium signs last 10–15 years depending on the thickness of the metal and how well the sign is maintained. Aluminium signs are durable and can withstand rust, fading and mild chemicals. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
ACM is one of the most cost effective materials on the market. It’s lightweight and long lasting. Rust proof, UV resistant and fireproof, as well as being easy to handle and install.
A DIBOND sign lasts about 5 to 10 years outdoors depending on the environment and weather conditions but can last much longer indoors.
(ACM) is a rigid sheet made of two sheets of pre-finished aluminium, bonded to a polyethylene core. Think of it as a sandwich with two sheets of pre painted aluminium as the bread, the polyethylene core as the meat, with all three layers bonded together.
A diagram of the three layers of an aluminum composite panel. The outer layer is made of a lightweight aluminium skin. The middle layer is a noncombustible core made of a high-density polyethylene material. The inner layer is another layer of lightweight aluminium skin. The layers are labeled. The overall structure is held together by a film of adhesive.
Dibond signs last 5-10 years outdoors depending on the environment, longer if used indoors up to 10 years or more.
Yes, ACPs are made by sandwiching layers of aluminium foil and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) under high heat and pressure. This process creates a strong, waterproof material.
No. Composite is made of several things and aluminium itself is all metal. Composites are lighter and stronger and more flexible than aluminium.
A diagram illustrating the structural difference between solid aluminium and aluminium composite. The solid aluminum is shown as a simple bar. The aluminium composite is shown as a bar made of several layers.
Conclusion
Aluminum composite material offers an unbeatable combination of style, strength, and versatility. Whether you’re crafting a bold business sign, a directional marker, or a custom art piece, ACM delivers the quality and durability you need.
If you’re looking for a signage material that checks all the boxes—lightweight, weather-resistant, customizable, and stunning—aluminum composite is your answer. Let it be the foundation of your next great sign project!