Engraved metal plate: permanent marking techniques
An engraved metal plate is obtained by removing or altering material from the metal surface to create texts, logos or graphics with negative relief or colour change. The three main techniques are laser engraving (high-contrast surface marking, fast and precise), chemical photo-etching (acid-controlled etching producing reliefs of up to 0.3 mm, ideal for inking) and CNC mechanical engraving (deep incisions, resistant to extreme abrasion).
Unlike surface printing, engraving does not wear away with friction, cleaning products or solar radiation, making it the reference technique when information must last for decades.
Steel engraving plates and custom steel plates
Steel engraving plates are manufactured in AISI 304 stainless steel (general use) or AISI 316 (marine and chemical environments). Custom steel plates accept high-resolution laser engraving — texts of 1 mm height, QR codes of 10x10 mm readable by scanner — and deep engraving for filling with coloured enamels.
The engraved stainless steel plate combines the premium appearance of stainless steel with engraved information that resists contact with acids, oils and industrial detergents. Engraved stainless steel plates are common in wineries, laboratories, pharmaceutical plants and food environments where hygiene requires aggressive cleaning.
Stamped metal plates: mechanical relief
Stamped metal plates are produced by deep drawing or coining, pressing the metal against a die that generates positive relief (raised letters and graphics). This process is common in number plates, car emblems and road signage. Stamping can be combined with enamelling or painting to highlight the raised elements against the background.
Alumigraf engraves metal plates with laser, photo-etching and CNC on any metal. Contact us about the most appropriate technique for your application.
