VARIETY OF MATERIALS AND THEIR QUALITIES IN AERONAUTICAL LABELS AND PLATES
INTRODUCTION
In the world of aeronautics, every detail counts.
From the majesty of an aircraft’s design to the discreet but critical labels and plates that mark each component, precision and safety are paramount.
This article explores the importance of the various materials used in the manufacture of aeronautical tags and plates, highlighting their essential qualities in ensuring the safety, efficiency and durability of aircraft.
MATERIALS USED IN AERONAUTICAL LABELS AND PLATES
ALUMINUM
Aluminum is one of the most widely used materials in the aerospace industry due to its light weight and corrosion resistance.
Especially in the form of Metalphoto® , a photosensitive anodized aluminum, this material offers high durability and resistance to chemical and abrasive agents, essential for tooling identification labels and structural components.
- Type of printing: Laser, silkscreen and rotogravure.
- Colors: Laser allows one color, screen printing and rotogravure allow all colors.
- Available thicknesses: From 0.01 mm to 5 mm.
- Technical Characteristics: High tensile strength and temperature resistance.
STEEL
Steel, known for its strength and durability, is used in areas requiring high tensile strength and wear resistance, such as undercarriages and engine components.
- Type of printing: Laser, silkscreen and rotogravure.
- Colors: Similar to aluminum, laser printing on steel allows for one color, while screen printing and gravure printing allow for a wide range of colors.
- Available thicknesses: From 0.01 mm to 5 mm.
- Technical Characteristics: Excellent tensile, temperature and radiation resistance properties.
TITANIUM
Titanium combines the lightness of aluminum with the strength of steel, as well as excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for components subjected to high temperatures and stresses.
- Type of printing: Laser.
- Colors: Black, yellow, blue, red.
- Available thicknesses: From 0.01 mm to 5 mm.
- Technical Characteristics: High resistance to temperature, radiation and traction.
VINYL AND POLYCARBONATE
Used primarily in aircraft interiors, these plastic materials offer flexibility and resistance to varying temperature and humidity conditions.
- Type of printing: Screen printing and thermal transfer.
- Colors: All colors.
- Available thicknesses: Vinyl: From 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm; Polycarbonate: Variable.
- Technical Characteristics: Good resistance to temperature, radiation and traction.
REQUIRED CHARACTERISTICS OF AERONAUTICAL LABELS
- Temperature Resistance: Labels must maintain their properties at extreme temperatures.
- Radiation Resistance: Especially to UV radiation.
- Tensile and Abrasion Resistance: Fundamental in areas of high friction.
- Resistance to Chemical Products: They must be chemically resistant to avoid deterioration.
OTHER MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES
In addition to the aforementioned materials, there are other options and technologies that complement safety and functionality in aeronautics:
- Polycarbonate: Impact and scratch resistant, ideal for areas close to passengers.
- Photoluminescent labels: Visible in the dark, essential for safety in low light conditions.
- Tamper-proof labels: They prevent fraud as they are irreparable once removed.
- Laser and mechanical engraving: For accurate and durable identification.
CONCLUSION
The selection of suitable materials for labels and tags in aerospace is crucial for safety and operational efficiency.
Each material, from aluminum to titanium, offers unique properties that ensure that each aircraft component is clearly identified and protected against various environmental and mechanical conditions.