Materials Used for Interpretive Panels

Most of the interpretive panels in the United States are fabricated in one of four materials:

1) High-Pressure Laminate (hpl): High-Pressure Laminate accounts for probably half of the interpretive panels made today. The material is similar to Formica, formed under intense heat and pressure, and is extremely tough, with a ten-year warranty. It is very rigid and most panels do not need a frame, as a single post with a metal mounting plate at the top is sufficient for panels up to 36" x 24" x 1/2".

2) Fiberglass Embedment: Fiberglass Embedment consists of layers of fiberglass with a sheet of graphics embedded in the fiberglass, for a tough, thin panel that generally slides into a metal frame. They also have a 10-year warranty.

3) Porcelain Enamel: This is an ancient process adapted for interpretive panels. It is enamel inks that are baked in to kiln onto copper sheets. There are works going back thousands of years that use this process, and they are as bright as ever, today. They are the most expensive process, but also perhaps the most durable.

4) Aluminum: Aluminum signs have gained in popularity in recent years as the high resolution needed for interpretive panels has become possible with aluminum sign printing. They can be installed with or without a frame.