Product category:
Materials and components
News Release from: Diametric Technical
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 13 July 2001
3D badges in the widest choice of
processes
Diametric Technical is the only industrial nameplate and logo manufacturer in the UK to offer 3D badges using a choice of Electroform, Injection Moulding, Diecast Metal or Tufflex 3D processes
Diametric Technical Limited is the only industrial nameplate and logo manufacturer in the UK to offer a one-stop shop solution to producing 3D badges using a choice of Electroform, Injection Moulding, Diecast Metal or Tufflex 3D processes With technical advice and expertise in methods and materials delivered as part of Diametric's value added service, customers can be sure of selecting the right process for their application and the environment in which it will be used
3D graphics and text, when designed to be consistent with the core values of a brand, enhance perceptions and create greater visual impact in a crowded market place.
3D badges have corporate and product branding applications in many sectors, ranging from audio and TV, business, communications and scientific equipment, cosmetics, packaging, toys and automotive.
The issues surrounding selection of the right process is rarely influenced by cost alone.
The integrity of the brand can be affected severely if appropriate advice is not sought on, for example, suitability for interior or exterior use and badge durability consistent with the expected lifespan of the product.
Diametric works with individual customers to specify the ideal aesthetic and functional solution to their badging requirements.
As a one-stop shop, Diametric is able to develop custom solutions to meet individual needs, using one of the following base processes: The Electroform process, in which nickel base metal is "electroformed" in a single operation onto a detail master tool, yielding precision reproduction of fine detail and textures.
The most versatile process, paint finishes can be any colour and matched to most recognised colour systems.
Diamond milling or recessed holographic effects, matt or bright chromium or gold plating finishes are also possible.
Electroforming is at its most cost effective when producing small designs requiring sharp definition, eg: on a Psion organiser or a Parker pen.
Available in the UK exclusively through Diametric, it is ideally suited to producing quality nameplates for premium branded products in the electronics and audio-visual markets.
In Injection Moulding, molten styrene, ABS thermoplastic or alternative materials are injected under pressure into a form tool, taking its shape and texture.
Tooling is made of engraved aluminium or the notably more expensive steel required for longer production runs and more complex forms, such as the Jaguar car emblem.
For simple designs, a limited range of base resin and foiled colours are available.
Special finishes include chromium plating to automotive industry standards, vacu-metallisation and screen printing.
In certain instances, this process can provide a lower cost alternative to electroforming.
For Diecast metal badges, molten zinc metal alloy is injected into a steel form tool and cools into a textured 3D relief.
Applying bright plating diamond cutting or printed colours to raised areas presents a detailed finish that conveys a higher perceived value.
An uncomplicated process, diecasting provides a low cost option for interior applications, such as hi-fi and electronics equipment.
Launched in May 2001, the highly versatile Tufflex 3D comprises the application of an evenly distributed coat of resin to a pre-printed substrate.
A mercury-free option is available.
Low tooling costs allow almost any shape, including scripted text, to be selectively "domed" with a clear, protective lens.
Special finishes include gloss, pearlescent, holographic, brushed chrome/gold and half-tone printing effects.
Badges can be applied to convex and semi-rigid surfaces.
Materials, shapes and finishes can be combined to produce novel effects, clearly differentiating brands from their competitors.
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