Sublimation Powder Coating: Decorative "Tattoos" for Metal Products

A leopard-print, dye sublimated, aluminum top rail

"A leopard print handrail?!" 

As wild as it sounds, this pattern and many others are easy to achieve thanks to a finishing technique called "dye sublimation".

Dye sublimation is a coating process that transfers printed, high-resolution images or wood grain designs to metals such as aluminum and steel, using heat and pressure.  This process allows inks to be permanently embedded, resulting in the display of an eye-catching image on the final product.

Some popular metal products that typically undergo this finishing process are aluminum railings, window frames, appliances, patio furniture, bathroom fixtures and doors.

The Dye Sublimation Process:

1.  The metal is cleaned to be sure there is no dirt or oil present.
2.  A base powder coat is applied to the metal in a light color.
3.  The non-porous sublimation film transfer is wrapped around the metal.
4.  Air is removed; heat and pressure are applied to create a perfect print.
5.  The film is removed once cooled.

To learn more, search the web for dye sublimation companies near you, or CLICK HERE for additional info on metal building products with solid-color powder coat finishes. 

INFOGRAPHIC: Lean Manufacturing Explained

Many architectural product manufacturers utilize the "Lean Manufacturing Process" to eliminate waste, create better efficiency within their manufacturing facility(ies) and optimize work flow.

Below is an infographic outlining the particulars of Lean created by Unitherm Insulation Systems.  Please click the image below to explore in greater depth.

Source: Unitherm Insulation Systems

To learn more about architectural metal products, CLICK HERE. 

INFOGRAPHIC: The Power of Aluminum

The following infographic illustrates the environmental benefits of aluminum 

and aluminum recycling: 

Infographic via Pinterest. 

Stainless Steel Polish Options: A Glossary

Brushed, or #4 polish, will hide
fingerprints & smudges

From consumer products like sinks and refrigerators, to industrial elements such as piping systems and chemical production materials, our lives just wouldn't be the same without stainless steel.

In the manufacturing world, this corrosion-resistant alloy is able to take on many different appearances. Below is a brief overview of the variety of stainless steel polishes that many metal fabricators offer.

VIDEO: Balcony Railing Slideshow

Take a look at this 2-minute slideshow featuring balcony railings on a variety of commercial applications.

To learn more about the balconies featured in this presentation, CLICK HERE.

4 Facts About Aluminum Railings

Aluminum Sterling Dula Custom Raiilng 

A common question asked within the architecture, engineering and construction field is:

"Why should we use aluminum railings on this project in lieu of another metal, such as steel?"

There are several reasons why aluminum is superior, for both new and retrofit projects. 

Below are four key facts about aluminum railings that every design-build firm, concrete restoration company and consulting engineering group needs to know: