Different Thicknesses of Nameplates and Their Uses

When choosing a metal for making your company’s nameplates, one of the most important considerations is the material’s thickness. The metal nameplate thickness affects the finished product’s durability and the level of detail you can add to it.

Generally, the thicker the material, the more rigid it will be. However, be sure to have your nameplate thin enough to avoid any protruding metal from your parts which can be risk of injury to passing personnel. Rigidity, also known as stiffness, indicates a metal’s resistance to bending. On the other hand, strength refers to the material’s degree of protection against breakage. You’ll want to consider both factors.

How Thickness Impacts a Metal Nameplate

Does thickness matter with nameplates? It will, as it directly affects the outcome of your nameplate projects. Aluminum is one example of a metal commonly used in nameplate manufacturing. One of the benefits of this material is its expansive thickness range — from 0.002 inches to 0.063 inches. Your applications and project requirements should guide you when choosing from thicknesses such as:

• .002: This extremely thin aluminum is soft and malleable, making it a good choice when needed a foil label application. Affixing the plate with an adhesive offers a more practical solution to rivets or holes.
• .008: While still relatively thin, this aluminum thickness level won’t bend as easily as a .002 measurement. It provides enough rigidity for less demanding nameplate uses. You can find this type of material thickness call out for blueprints in: control panel or airplane labels.
• .012: This thickness level gives you a cost-effective manufacturing solution that resists bending. Use it for nameplates on doors, desks and other locations where bending could be an issue. Because this degree of thickness produces a lightweight aluminum product, you can affix it to the desired surface with adhesives.
• .016: This aluminum thickness level falls under the “somewhat rigid” category.
• .020: For many projects, this thickness delivers the ideal combination of rigidity and functionality. Because of this versatility, you can use this measurement for aluminum nameplate marking projects that involve etching, engraving, digital printing and many other methods. You can affix the finished plate with rivets or adhesives.
• .032: If your project requires an extremely thick plate, this thickness offers the right mix of durability and flexibility. It’s often the best choice when you need to add a high volume of information. Examples of this thickness are similar to the thickness of a credit card.
• .063: As one of the thicker “nameplate standard” aluminum used to manufacture nameplates, this version provides maximum rigidity and superior strength. You won’t be able to bend the finished product by hand. It’s also compatible with various marking methods. Consider this thickness for larger nameplates that require screw or bracket mounting; however, adhesive is always optional!
• .125: This aluminum can be brought in for special jobs and printed to your specifics. If your blueprint or drawing calls out for a thickness of 0.125″ or more call our salesman to discuss the best process for making your nameplate.

Learn More About Nameplate Thickness and Uses

As a leading manufacturer and marker of nameplates, labels and decals for a wide range of industries, American Nameplate can help you determine the ideal thickness of nameplate for your project. We have extensive experience working with aluminum and other materials such as stainless steel and brass.

Contact us online or give us a call at 800-878-6186 for more information.