Engraved Stainless Steel Plates
Engraved stainless steel plates combine the permanence of engraving with the resistance of stainless steel, resulting in identification and signage pieces that maintain their legibility for decades.
- Fibre laser engraving: maximum resolution, black/grey contrast
- Chemical etching: large surfaces, uniform depth
- Extreme durability: legible after years of industrial use
- Applications: machine plates, identification, commemorative
Additional information
- Datamatrix code engraving for permanent traceability
- Colour contrast through controlled oxidation (laser)
- Engraving resistance to CIP cleaning in the food industry
Engraving stainless steel plates: techniques and results
Engraving stainless steel plates is performed using three main techniques, each with distinct characteristics. Laser engraving vaporises a surface layer of the metal, creating high-contrast dark marks with sufficient resolution for texts of a few millimetres and QR codes. Chemical engraving (photoengraving) selectively attacks the surface with acids protected by a photographic mask, allowing depths of up to 0.3 mm and filling with coloured enamels. Mechanical engraving (CNC milling) produces deeper incisions, ideal for environments with contact wear or abrasive cleaning.
Engravings on stainless steel plates resist weather, chemicals and UV rays without losing definition, unlike surface printing techniques that can degrade over time.
Personalised stainless steel plates for each application
Personalised stainless steel plates cover a wide range of uses. In industrial environments, stainless steel identification plates mark equipment with serial numbers, technical data, electrical diagrams or safety instructions. Stainless steel identification plates are mandatory in many regulated sectors: boilers, pressure vessels, lifts and CE-marked machinery.
Stainless steel plates for engraving are also used for professional office labelling, building directories, hospital floor signage and labelling of heritage assets.
Stainless steel commemorative plates
Stainless steel commemorative plates are installed on monuments, opening ceremonies, tributes and institutional recognitions. Their noble finish and zero maintenance requirement make them preferable to brass in exterior locations exposed to rain or salty environments. They are usually combined with colour-filled low relief, protected screen-printing or laser-engraved photographs.
Prices of engraved stainless steel plates
The cost of engraved stainless steel plates depends on the dimensions, sheet thickness, chosen engraving technique and design complexity. Small identification plates (50x25 mm) in medium runs have a low unit cost; large-format commemorative plates with deep engraving and multiple colour filling represent a higher investment. In all cases, the starting point is final artwork provided by the client or designed to order.
Alumigraf engraves stainless steel plates with laser, photoengraving and CNC. Send us your plate specifications — dimensions, text, logo and quantity — for a no-obligation quote.