Chemical etching, (also known as chemical engraving or laser etching) is a high-quality variant of traditional engraving. Graphics are indented (debossed) into the metal surface which gives a premium appearance for signs and nameplates, and permanently marks information into industrial labels.
For wayfinding this is an important reason why architects and designers specify etched stainless steel rather than surface printing. Because the graphics are recessed into the metal, they are much more visible than a print on a smooth surface. Not only does this make etched signage work more effectively for wayfinding, it also gives a prestigious appearance. Even to the casual observer, surface prints look cheap in comparison, and they are also difficult to clean because the stainless steel is behind the print, so a cleaning cloth will not glide over the surface leaving a streak-free finish.
Our etched stainless steel wayfinding signage is certified to have passed BS 476: Part 6: 1989 + A1: 2009 – Fire Propagation, and has achieved Class1: BS 476: Part 7: 1997 – Surface Spread of Flame. This makes it safe to use in high-rise buildings. See further details on our Fire Tested Signs page.
Commemorative plaques and nameplates should look permanent. Professionals such as solicitors and accountants want to create a quality image, and nothing does this better than a good quality etched brass or stainless steel nameplate. Inferior processes such as surface printing and laser marking look disappointing and have a short life. Only chemical etching gives the high-quality appearance indented into the surface that you expect for this type of sign and nameplate. Some truly stunning designs are possible, and please feel free to browse the carefully selected photographs in our gallery for inspiration.
Chemical etching is also an essential product for industrial identification plates and labels. Information is permanently marked into the surface of the metal, usually stainless steel, so it will not wear off. Surface printing is too easily damaged or destroyed by daylight, moisture, or chemicals, and plastic labels are easily damaged and lost. To permanently display information on products and equipment, etched labels and nameplates are the best solution for most environments. To find out more about a product you could be missing out on, see our Labels Page.