The Advantages of 3D Printed Signs Against Custom Acrylic Signs

Comparison Article

Fewer Machines Are Needed

Making a complete 3D sign the traditional way calls on a CNC router, a laser cutting machine, an engraving machine, a bending machine, a UV curing machine, a slotting machine and a welding machine. Each is capital and each needs an operator. A 3D sign printer prints the letter front, the letter side and the letter back together, so the same product comes off one machine.

Less Working Space Is Required

Several large machines occupy floor area, and in a major city floor area is one of the largest fixed costs a sign shop carries. One printer needs a small footprint. If throughput demands a second machine, a two layer printer shelf puts it above the first rather than beside it.

Less Material Cost

An acrylic panel is expensive, and the sign side is usually stainless steel or aluminium alloy, which is more expensive still. Filament costs far less per letter. A letter A at 272 x 300 x 30 mm including face and sides needs 37 meters of filament, which is 111 grams.

Less Material Waste

Traditional signage is subtractive manufacturing: material is cut away and the offcut is waste. Printing is additive, building the sign layer by layer, so there is no offcut to throw away.

Lower Labour Cost

The traditional route involves CAD design, board cutting, metal bending, welding and engraving, and bending and welding need skilled people. Printing is automatic, and on average one worker can manage around 10 sign printers.

Longer Working Capacity

A sign printer can print 24 hours a day if you require it. A traditional line works the hours its operators work, which is usually eight.

More Signage Styles

Traditional fabrication gives one face colour, a flat face, one side colour and straight sides. Printing gives multiple face colours, flat or mesh faces, multiple side colours, and straight bevelled or curved sides, with frontlit sidelit or backlit illumination.