Page 86 - 2017 US Professional Signage Catalog

METAL LETTERS / FABRICATED
Stainless Steel vs Aluminum
Leading the industry with more materials and more choice.
Gemini is recognized as a leading producer of custom, high-quality stainless steel fabricated letters and logos, and this year we’ve expanded our material options to include aluminum. With every passing year, Gemini invests in new manufacturing technology to bring you the industry’s highest levels of quality in our fabricated metal products, and an industry-leading range of sizes, configurations and options to help you bring new ideas and capabilities to your customers.
For instance:
• Now you can order fabricated aluminum letters in sizes up to 60” x 120” — in one piece.
• We’ve expanded our capabilities to offer the sophistication and durability of anodized finishes in our fabricated aluminum letters and logos.
• We’ve broadened our stainless steel fabricated line with our exclusive and innovative precision fabricated letters as small as 2” high, with dramatic return depths to 2”, and strokes as thin as 3/8” — the smallest stroke- width to letter-depth ratio in the industry.
• Both lines of letters are available brushed or painted; as well as polished in stainless steel.
• Both stainless and aluminum dimensional letters are available with UL- certified, integrated halo- and/or face-lit LED lighting options. (see our Illuminated section)
Choosing between stainless steel and aluminum.
For your fabricated sign letters or logo project, the considerations for choosing between aluminum or from various grades of stainless steel are many, as are the options to create the sign effect and performance you desire. Here are some basic considerations and comparison points between stainless steel and aluminum that might help. As always, we invite you to contact us with your questions. The experts at Gemini can help guide you to the correct decision.
Top material considerations: aluminum vs. stainless. Strength and weight: Stainless steel is far stronger than aluminum, but
about 2.5-times heavier. If size and weight are not a consideration, stainless
is more durable and less likely to become dented, warped or scratched over the life of the sign. For larger signs, or where weight is a factor, aluminum is a proven performer.
Size range: Gemini’s new precision fabricated stainless steel letters can be produced to your required size as small as 2” high, and depths up to 2”, and with our new manufacturing technology — with very narrow letter strokes — down to 3/8”. Precision fabricated steel letters are designed for applications up to 36” high. Aluminum fabricated letters start at 16” high and extend to as tall as ten feet!
Material price: While raw material prices can vary and are affected by construction and finishing options, fabricated aluminum letters and signs are generally the most affordable choice from a material standpoint.
Corrosion resistance: While our alloy #5052 aluminum provides exceptional corrosion resistance and hardness, stainless steel offers the highest levels of corrosion resistance. In marine, coastal or harsh applications, our 316 stainless steel or titanium coated is advised.
Finish: Both metals can be painted standard or custom colors, but the
rich beauty of brushed stainless steel cannot be duplicated. In addition, polished stainless offers a rich looking option for your true high end interior application.
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