One of the cool things about being a supplier and manufacturer of custom nameplates and labels is the variety of industries and applications that come across our desks and onto the fabrication floor. While each project is unique and truly custom-built based on the specific needs at hand, there are certain questions that must be asked and answered. Here's a list of 5 questions that are always asked for any nameplate or label project.
1 - What is the Objective of your Nameplate or Label?
A nameplate can take on a variety of roles. It can serve as your brand awareness piece - the "jewel" on your product that stands out and gets noticed on the shelf. It can be a data plate that provides important operating or safety information. A label can provide inventory tracking with a bar code. Or perhaps it is an overlay with backlit graphics or embossed touch buttons. The purpose of your nameplate or label can help determine the right material and tooling needs.
2 - What Environment is the Label Going Into?
The type of environment that your metal nameplate or plastic label will be used in is important to know. Is there exposure to heat or cold extremes? Is it intended for indoor or outdoor use? Is the product one that will be heavily handled or need to stand up to chemicals? How long do you expect your label to last? Answers to these narrow down the selection of substrates and processes.
3 - How will the Nameplate or Label be Attached?
One of the most common attachment solutions is pressure sensitive adhesive. The type of surface that the nameplate is applied to is important to know. McLoone works with standard 3M and other adhesive vendors to ensure secure attachment to easy surfaces and more complicated like powder-coated metals, low surface energy plastics, and textured surfaces. If adhesive is not a good fit, we can explore mechanical attachment with rivets or screws.
4 - Are there any Regulated Marks or Graphics Needed?
Each situation is different. Perhaps your product requires conformance with UL markings or OSHA/ANSI warnings. This is important to call out on your artwork and request for quote so that we make sure that material and processes reviewed are in compliance. UL Marks are registered trademarks under strict guidelines for printing as established by Underwriters Laboratories. McLoone is authorized to print UL registered certification marks. Anytime the UL mark appears on the printed part, we must have approval from UL on file with the customer print.
5 - What Enhancement Features are Needed?
A standard flat metal nameplate or ID plate, warning label or graphic overlay simply needs you to tell us what graphics, size and material is needed. There are times where some enhancement is needed - embossed graphics or buttons, maybe doming for a 3D effect, or custom finish like a pattern in the background is needed. We are passionate about helping you achieve a distinct look for your product identification that will enhance and elevate your brand. These are important design elements that ultimately give you tools to stand out in the market.
Related Posts and Resources
3 Considerations for the Design of Nameplates and Labels
5 Reasons You Need a Nameplate
How Can We Help?
Now that you've walked through these common questions that will be reviewed for each project, you can feel empowered to start conversation to create an effective nameplate or label. The earlier in the project that we can start working with you the better so that there is time for reviewing questions, any testing or sampling can be completed before your product launch.
