Data Plates

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Our Data Plate Solutions

Stainless steel or aluminum custom data plates are a robust and effective way to identify your equipment and display crucial information in industrial applications. Our precision labeling services ensure clear and permanent marking, so your plates will be highly resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and wear-and-tear. Whether you need to convey serial numbers, specifications, compliance details, or anything else, we can create customized plates for your specific needs.

Material Options

We manufacture data plates in the following materials:

Stainless steel data plates are an excellent choice for environments prone to corrosion and abrasion. If your data plates are installed in coastal areas or subjected to frequent transportation, stainless steel ensures longevity and readability. We stock stainless steel in 0.018” – 0.125” thicknesses, with both 316 and 304 stainless steel available in most thicknesses. We also offer 2 finish options. The #4 finish contributes a shinier exterior to your data plate, whereas the #2B has a matte/duller finish.

While not as resistant to corrosion as stainless steel, aluminum data plates are still durable and are ideal for industries such as aerospace and transportation, where weight is at a premium. At Etched, we stock aluminum in 0.012” – 0.125” thicknesses, with other thicknesses available upon request.

Anodized aluminum data plates undergo a protective coating process that enhances their resistance to abrasion and corrosion. Their lightweight nature and added durability make them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. You can also choose from various color options to match your branding or application requirements. At Etched, we offer anodized aluminum data plates in clear, black, blue, green, red, or yellow.

While less durable than stainless steel or aluminum plates, plastic data plates offer high contrast and legibility, making them ideal for indoor applications where direct sunlight and extreme conditions are not a concern.

Process Options

Our data plate process options include:

Chemical etching produces precise and durable markings on stainless steel, aluminum, or anodized aluminum data plates. Advantages of this process type include excellent resistance to abrasion and clear legibility throughout the plate’s lifespan.

Metalphoto processing seals UV-stable images within anodized aluminum. Advantages of this process type include unparalleled durability and resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and environmental elements. It is a popular choice for industries requiring long-lasting, legible data plates.

Our fiber and CO2 lasers deliver durable markings on a variety of materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, anodized aluminum, and plastic. Advantages of fiber laser engraving include depth and durability; the primary advantage of CO2 laser engraving is the ability to create true black marks.

At Etched, we use an engraving bit to cut a groove an average of 0.003 to 0.007 inches into the data plate material. The grooves can then be filled with paint for enhanced contrast and visibility. Advantages of rotary engraving include precision and repeatability, making it ideal for high-volume orders. 

Screen printing is a cost-effective process option for data plates and is ideal if your plate will be installed in an indoor environment with minimal corrosion or abrasion. Screen printing offers high contrast and legibility, producing crisp and clear images.

Not Sure Which Material or Process Option Is Best for Your Data Plates?

Learn more detailed information about how each option works, as well as its advantages and disadvantages, in our Data Plates Buyer’s Guide.

Read the Guide

Applications for Data Plates

Designed to communicate crucial information about your products and equipment, Etched metal and plastic data plates will last for years or even decades to come. Custom data plates are especially crucial for industries like:

Why Partner With Etched for Your Industrial Data Plates

At Etched, we pride ourselves on attention to detail–meaning we care just as much about the small orders as the large ones. We wanted to make ordering data plates as easy as possible for our customers, which is why we have no minimum or maximum order quantities and have developed innovative supply chain solutions to make sure you have the plates you need, when you need them. We even offer expedited shipping at no extra charge.

With a wealth of experience spanning over 50 years, cutting-edge technology, and world-class manufacturing capabilities, our dedicated team is equipped to handle every aspect of your project.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We have a standard lead time of two weeks, regardless of size of order. However, we understand that urgent situations sometimes arise, and offer rush orders and expedited shipping at no extra cost. Learn more about our Bail Me Out program.

We’ll need to know the material, process option, and text or graphics you want included on your data plate. If you have an existing plate you’d like to order more of, a sample, drawing, or dimensions of the part will be necessary.

At Etched, we pride ourselves on having no minimum or maximum quantities. We put our best effort into any size of order.

Before we begin manufacturing your data plates, we’ll walk you through an art approval process to make sure everything looks the way you want it. If you still want a sample after the artwork approval, we are happy to provide one.

Have additional questions? Contact us today.

A Few of Our Satisfied Customers

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