Why Choose Aluminum Labels? What Makes Them Superior?

Certain Properties 

Aluminum is often utilized for machine labels due to its suitable properties for labeling.

Light

Aluminum is a lightweight metal that is perfect for metal labeling as it doesn’t add so much weight to tools and equipment. It will cost a little when you plan to use large amounts of aluminum labels.

Durable

Aluminum is an extremely sturdy material that can last for many years with proper usage.

Diverse

Aluminum is versatile for creating labels, including embossed and anodized labels. Anodizing can alter the physical attributes of a label by manipulating its surface. 

Resource-rich

Abundant aluminum resources lower aluminum costs and make it a more economical option.

Non-magnetic

For applications where magnetism needs to be avoided, aluminum is a good choice.

Malleable

Aluminum with good malleability is more plastic in the processing process. Under the action of overload or abnormal loads, it can also alleviate problems such as stress concentration and crack growth to be safer and reliable.

Classifications of Aluminum Labels

You can find multifarious aluminum labels in use with different techniques. Here are some:

Anodized Aluminum Labels

The electrolytic coloring of anodized aluminum tags improves surface coating and prevents damage and falling off.

However, it’s important to note that color graphics may have reduced UV resistance, which is a main drawback to consider. This is especially important for outdoor applications where the labels may be exposed to the sun.

Embossed Aluminum Labels

Embossed aluminum Tags have raised characters that stand out from the surface. They are designed to be read easily, even after the label has been galvanized or painted. These tags are robust and are typically utilized on industrial machinery. Embossed aluminum is a great choice for outdoor labels since it can resist extreme environments. And the technique of embossing makes the label more visible from afar. Additionally, embossed labels are permanent.

However, there are limitations to using embossed labels. They come in limited color options, so you must paint over the label if you want a different color. Moreover, limited design options are available and can be more expensive than other labeling options.

MetalPhoto Aluminum Labels

MetalPhoto labeling is a process that involves embedding a photo or graphic onto anodized aluminum through complex chemical processes. There are two ways to create MetalPhoto labels. The first method consists of developing an anodic layer with silver compounds that make an image when exposed to light. The second method is the metal can be colored through chemical etching using specific colorizing chemicals.

MetalPhoto aluminum stickers are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion and abrasion. They produce high-resolution and clear images that can last for decades. However, due to their reliance on the chemical properties of silver compounds and other materials, they tend to be expensive and offer fewer color choices, which is a limitation.

Printed Aluminum Labels

These labels are made of metal and have text or graphics printed on them. They offer a high degree of customizability, as you can get them in various colors. However, they are more susceptible to environmental factors, so using them for indoor applications is best. For example, some people use printed aluminum labels for their house’s nameplates. 

The printing process is simple, which makes printed labels cheap and affordable. They produce sharp and crisp, high-resolution images. However, they are not that durable and resistant to environmental impacts. They are easy to get corrosion and scratches.

Laser Engraving Aluminum Labels

Laser engraving is a numerical control technology that uses lasers for processing. The denaturation of the processing material in the instant melting and gasification under the irradiation of laser engraving can make laser engraving achieve the purpose of processing. Laser engraving labels are often used for asset tracking to monitor inventory levels, producing durable labels with highly accurate designs.

Although laser engraving labels are a good option for labeling, there are some disadvantages to consider. They are more expensive than other labeling options and offer fewer color choices.

Applications of Aluminum Labels

Aluminum labels are used in various industries, including asset and barcode labeling. Let’s categorize their usage into three broad categories.

Industrial Labeling

Proper labeling of industrial equipment is crucial to creating a safer workplace, and aluminum labels can be used for this purpose. Moreover, labeling equipment with its risks is mandatory by law.

Equipment labeling also facilitates maintenance. You should label replacement part numbers and operating instructions to ensure better equipment maintenance, making it last for a long time. Asset labeling also helps keep track of inventory and assets, enabling you to stock up on required equipment when running low.

Signage

Aluminum is great for creating outdoor signage, such as directional or informational plaques. Also, it is a durable, weather-resistant option for signage labels and house nameplates.

Branding

Aluminum labels are an excellent method to enhance brand recognition for your business. You can design custom aluminum tags for your goods and packaging featuring your company’s information, creating a powerful first impression of your brand. Remember to include other important branding information on your packaging, such as your tagline and mission statement.

Cons of Aluminum Labels

Although aluminum labels are extensively used, they do have a few drawbacks:

Lack Of Flexibility

Aluminum is a long-lasting material for labeling; however, it lacks flexibility. Unlike paper or plastic, it is rigid and cannot be bent easily. This becomes an issue when the surface you want to label is not flat. Due to its limited flexibility, an aluminum label won’t stick properly to a curved surface.

Little Color Options

Anodized, printed, and MetalPhoto aluminum tags are available in different colors. However, they cannot offer the same range of colors as plastics or paper. This is because the color is added to the silver aluminum through a chemical process. In contrast, plastics come in a variety of colors naturally. Imparting colors into aluminum requires specialized equipment and skills. If you require more colorful labels, it is recommended to choose plastic tags.

Summary

Aluminum is an excellent label material due to its durability and physical properties. However, it is less flexible than plastic labels and has limited color customization options. Among so many aluminum applications, you need to choose the one that best suits your demands. As an aluminum label manufacturer in China, Enze offers various sheet metal fabrication for your custom requirements; contact us for a fast quote.