ACM/HPL/GRP or PC? A quick guide to different graphics panel materials

LM Blog 1 01

Written by Guy Walton - 17 Mar 2020

Having designed your sign, you’ve then got the problem of deciding what type of panel to put in it. There are loads of different sorts, all at different price points and with different properties. To help you we’ve summarised the common panel types below with in roughly ascending price order.

UV resistance levels are guides only as formulations and print techniques are constantly evolving, but medium resistance is 5-7 years and high resistance is 10+ years. This also depends on the printed graphic, location and orientation of the finished panel.

PVC foam board (MatteRok)

Sometimes call Foamex this is a lightweight PVC foam board, usually 3mm or 5mm thick. It accepts digital print and screenprint. Often used for temporary signage as very economical and lightweight. Vandal resistance – low.  UV resistance – medium.

ACM aluminium composite material (BaseRok)

This board has a black plastic core with an aluminium face and back. It’s easily recognised by viewing it from the edge. Accepts digital print, screenprint and vinyl lettering and usually has a laminated finish for extra UV and graffiti resistance. Used extensively as very economical and stable. No scrap value. Vandal resistance – medium.  UV resistance – medium.

Aluminium (FlatRok)

This material is a solid aluminium sheet and is similar to ACM in finished appearance apart from having a silver edge. It has similar properties but is slightly more expensive. Accepts digital print, screenprint and vinyl lettering and usually has a laminated finish for extra UV and graffiti resistance. Used extensively as very economical and stable. Vandal resistance – medium.  UV resistance – medium.

Encapsulated aluminium board (HardRok)

This is a premium board at a moderate price point. The panel is powder-coated, then a print is applied and the panel is sprayed or powder coated with a high-grade finish. Accepts digital print.  Vandal resistance – high. UV resistance – high.

Polycarbonate (ArmaRok)

This is a very tough panel, the print is laminated onto the reverse so is very well protected again impact and sunlight. However polycarbonate can scratch so a matt finish is recommended. Vandal resistance – high. UV resistance – high.

Etched stainless steel plate (DeepRok)

Used for topographs and viewing panels. The steel plate is chemically etched and filled and works equally well in contemporary and traditional settings. Vandal resistance – high.  UV resistance – high.

Cast polyurethane resin (CastRok)

Used for heritage settings, these panels are individually moulded and painted. Very durable with almost a ‘cast-iron’ look to them. Vandal resistance – high.  UV resistance – high.

GRP Glass reinforced polyester (ToughRok)

A very durable material although not considered particularly environmentally friendly for disposal.  Used extensively at remote sites as very durable and weather proof. Scratches or impact marks can be polished or sanded out. Vandal resistance – high.  UV resistance – high.

HPL High pressure laminate (EcoRok)

This is a paper sheet laminated between layers kraft paper them compressed in resin to create a chemically solid block. Very stiff so can doesn’t need a backing panel, allowance for shrinkage/expansion must be made in the fittings. Graphics quality not so high for small reversed out text due to the ‘wet’ process but can still produce very high quality durable panels.  Impervious to salt water. Vandal resistance – high.  UV resistance – high.

Written by Guy Walton - 17 Mar 2020

Share this article

14 Jan 2025

How do you choose the right monolith sign for your public project?

Signs play a vital role in organising public spaces and guiding people efficiently. By helping everyone find their way, these signs create accessible, welcoming...

13 Jan 2025

Interpretation board designs that capture attention and foster inclusivity

Interpretation boards serve as silent storytellers in public spaces, bridging the gap between visitors and the environment. Whether it’s a park, trail, or heritage...

10 Jan 2025

What are the advantages of in-ground outdoor lighting for creating mood and security?

Bollard lights outdoor installations have become a popular choice for enhancing various spaces, finding their way into public and private settings alike. These compact,...

Our Catalogues

Common species, characteristics & examples.
Download Catalogue

Timber
Selection Guide

Wayfinding, Furniture & Lighting Catalogue Issue 46.
Download Catalogue

Creating
Unforgettable Places

Furniture, Signage & Shelters Mettro Catalogue.
Download Catalogue

Coordinating
the Street Scene

We want to work with you.

Your project is our project, the Landmark team is waiting to hear from you…

ISO 9001 2015 badge white 200x94 1.png
ISO 14001 2015 badge white 200x94 1.png
Constructionline Logo.jpg
WSC tractor SSIP.jpg
Sign Design Society Member logo.jpeg
FSC C117261 Promotional with text Portrait WhiteOnGreen r 3qQNJ8 1 1 200x298 1.jpeg
madebylandmark greenweb 200x90 1.png
BloomAccreditedSupplier 200x85 1.png

Hertford (Head office)
1 Centrus, Mead Lane
Hertford
SG13 7GX
01992 939 279

Connect with us on  LinkedIn
Newsletter Sign-up, max 2 per month, just 1 click to unsubscribe
  • ISO 9001 2015 badge white
  • ISO 14001 2015 badge white
  • Constructionline Logo
  • WSC tractor SSIP
  • Sign Design Society Member logo
  • FSC® certified products available upon request

    FSC® certified products available upon request

  • madebylandmark greenweb
  • BloomAccreditedSupplier

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Let us know what you’re trying to find and we will get back to you soon.