Metcase investment opens up enclosures for photo-quality customisation
Metal enclosures manufacturer, Metcase, has invested in technology to meet a growing demand for cases and front panels printed with photo-quality legends, logos and graphics.
Digital printing is quicker, easier and more cost-effective than traditional silk screen and tampo methods. There are no expensive tooling costs. Set-up is easy and there is low wastage. This helps to make customisation more viable for low-volume orders.
The company introduced digital printing five years ago and has experienced such demand that it has been prompted to double its capacity. The new equipment is slightly larger than the original 1,800 x 1,800 dpi flatbed printer and 40 per cent faster. The company is also using new inks which it says are even more scratch resistant.
Metcase digitally prints customer-specified legends, logos and graphics on its 19-inch rack cases, instrument enclosures and front panels.
The company can print in full colour CMYK up to 1,800 x 1,800 dpi, using technology suitable for painted or anodised metal surfaces (and plastics) with all different kinds of textures.
Hard UV ink provides excellent scratch resistance, reports Metcase and a clear lacquer is applied on top to give added protection. Simultaneous printing of colour and white speeds up production.
UV LED curing improves consistency and saves energy.
Metcase can print multiple panels or cases at once, reducing lead times still further. The maximum object height is 150mm.
Digital printing also enables Metcase to create different iterations, for example to add barcodes and QR codes to enclosures and front panels.
The service is offered for use on Metcase’s own front panels and enclosures or free-issued parts from the customer.
Customers provide a high resolution PDF or EPS file – or a DWG/DXF CAD file including the print details (other formats are also possible).
Downloadable 3D models for all Metcase enclosures and front panels are available on the company’s website. Here, customers can modify the specifications and see how components will look when installed.
Other customisation services offered include custom sizes, custom front panels, CNC punching, folding, milling, drilling and tapping, fixings and inserts; painting and finishing.
