Valve Tag Material Comparison
Brass
Pros:
- Highly durable and corrosion-resistant
- Excellent for high-temperature or harsh environments
- Professional, long-lasting appearance
- Can be deep-engraved and black-filled
- Resistant to UV and chemical exposure
- Normally more expensive than plastic alternatives, though as are similar in price to Traffolyte
- Heavier (not ideal for weight-sensitive setups)
- Can tarnish over time without lacquer/seal
- Longer production lead time if deep engraved
Anodised Aluminium
Pros:- Lightweight yet strong
- Corrosion-resistant due to anodised layer
- Available in various colours
- Good UV and chemical resistance (with hard anodising)
- More affordable than brass
- Not as robust as brass under extreme mechanical wear
- Engraving often removes colour, limiting contrast unless filled
- Can scratch more easily than brass
- Not suitable for extremely harsh industrial environments
Traffolyte (Engraving Laminate)
Pros:- Designed for engraving - colour contrast is built-in
- Rigid and professional appearance
- Available in many colour combinations
- Cost-effective for indoor or light industrial use
- Brittle - prone to cracking if dropped or over-tightened
- Poor performance in high temperatures
- Limited weather and UV resistance (not ideal outdoors unless UV-stable)
- Edges can chip or delaminate under stress
ABS Plastic
Pros:- Very cost-effective
- Good strength and impact resistance
- Engraves cleanly with good contrast
- Lightweight and ideal for internal plant labelling
- Can be supplied in various sizes and colours
- Not UV-stable unless specially treated
- Not suitable for high temperatures or chemical exposure
- Can warp or degrade in harsh environments
- Less prestigious appearance than metal options
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