Aluminium composite material (ACM), also referred to as Dibond, is a popular material in the signage and large format print industry. It is made up of a polyethylene core sandwiched between two skins of aluminium. This creates a perfectly smooth surface that allows for exceptional print quality both for direct and mounted graphics. These characteristics make ACM an ideal solution for external and internal applications alike.
Besides the cost savings ACM offers over traditional aluminium signage, one of the main benefits of ACM’s polyethylene core is that it allows for a much lighter weight than aluminium panels. This reduction in weight makes handling, transportation and installation of the signage or large format print much easier and can make shipping a little bit cheaper too which always helps!
However, ACM still offers impressive strength and durability. In fact, its exceptional durability is one of its key advantages with a life expectancy for external applications of 5 years or more with proper installation and care. ACM is completely weatherproof, meaning it can stand up to the ever-changing weather conditions in the UK without risk of damage, bowing or fading. In addition to this, ACM signage and graphics are very low maintenance and should require virtually no hands-on maintenance outside of the occasional clean.
Something that has really helped to boost ACM’s appeal in recent years is the fact that it is completely recyclable. Both the aluminium skins and the polyethylene core can be broken down and reused meaning that once your signage or hoarding has lived its life, it can go on to live another one. Many ACM manufacturers are also now using recycled material to produce the plastic core making it an even greener option!
Another key feature of ACM for signage and large format print is its versatility. Not only is it great for flat panel applications such as printed hoarding graphics, post & fence signs or building signage but it can also be folded to create 3D products. Tray signs and totems are examples of 3D applications that ACM is regularly used for that can significantly improve the visual impact of your signage. It allows for your signage to stand out from the crowd of flat panels and catch peoples attention with a more premium looking finish.
That versatility is helped by our in-house production facility that houses a router that can quickly and easily cut ACM to any custom shape that is required for your signage project. Whether its individual letters, a unique logo or a bespoke feature, we can create it! When we partner that with our state-of-the-art printing capabilities and over 25 years of experience in the signage and large format print industry, we are perfectly positioned to help with your next project!