Signage Sign Assembly
Plaskolite sign-grade acrylic sheet and roll stock allows for easy sign assembly. The Plaskolite signage fabrication guide details how standard sign-assembly methods may be applied.
Attaching Acrylic to Sign Cabinets
Typical sign cabinets use aluminum extrusions to engage the edge of the acrylic sign face (See Fig. 24).
A hanger bar along the top edge of the acrylic should be used to correct any sagging or bowing of the sign face. This technique is commonly used in warmer climates and with large signs where it is necessary to prevent the weight of the sign from resting on the lower portion of the sign frame, reducing the possibility of sign deformation due to high temperature (See Fig. 25).
If mechanical fasteners must be used, allow room for expansion and contraction. A method of attachment to prevent acrylic sign faces from binding on the sign cabinet include a spacer, slightly taller than the thickness of the acrylic sheet and the sign cabinet combined, inserted through the oversized hole and slot (See Fig. 26).
Tie bars are typically used on large signs to prevent the acrylic pan from blowing in, out, or dislodging. They attach the sign face to the cabinet (See Fig. 27). Soft bumpers can also be used to minimize sign faces from flexing inward. Contact between the sign face and the bumper can cause friction, thereby damaging graphics. Both methods work best on signs decorated on the first surface.
Ventilation
To prevent sign face distortion caused by heat build up above the acrylic deflection temperature, cabinet ventilation should be incorporated. Consider additional vents when the sign face is decorated with dark paints or vinyl (See Fig. 28).
Cementing Trim Cap
Tack trim cap to acrylic with a water thin solvent such as Weld-On #3. Allow to dry, then apply a continuous bead of thickened polymerized cement such as Weld-On #16 (See Fig. 29).