Sublimation printing on metal transforms aluminum sheets into stunning, permanent prints with incredible color vibrancy. This process is perfect for photo panels, signs, and custom artwork.
HD Metal Prints – Aluminum Sublimation | Custom Photo Panels
Sublimation printing on metal is a modern way to create high-definition, long-lasting, and vibrant images. Using specially coated aluminum sheets, sublimation printing transfers images directly into the surface, making them scratch-resistant, UV-protected, and waterproof.
Common uses include:
- Wall art and photography prints
- Customized photo panels
- Metal signs and displays
- Personalized gifts
- Industrial tags and labels
Sublimation Printing Metal Sheet
Sublimation metal sheets are made from aluminum with a polyester coating that absorbs sublimation ink. They are available in different finishes:
- Glossy white for vibrant colors
- Matte for a soft, elegant effect
- Brushed aluminum for a metallic look
Common Sizes of Sublimation Metal Sheets
| Size (inch) | Thickness (mm) | Finish Options |
|---|---|---|
| 8 x 10 | 0.5 – 1.1 | Gloss, Matte, Brushed |
| 12 x 18 | 0.8 – 1.2 | Gloss, Matte, White |
| 20 x 30 | 1.1 – 1.5 | Gloss, Matte |
| Custom sizes | 0.5 – 1.5 | Full customization |
Sublimation on Metal Signs
Aluminum Sublimation printing is widely used for metal signs because of its durability and color depth.
- Perfect for indoor and outdoor use
- Resistant to UV rays, rain, and scratches
- Ideal for business branding, street signs, and nameplates
Sublimation Metal Photo Blanks
Photo blanks are pre-coated aluminum panels ready for sublimation. They are available in different shapes such as square, rectangle, round, or custom cut.
Advantages of Using Photo Blanks
- Easy to print directly with sublimation machine
- No extra coating required
- Sharp and vivid colors after printing
- Perfect for photography studios and custom gift shops
Sublimation Printing on Aluminum
Aluminum sheets are the most popular material for sublimation printing. Benefits include:
- Lightweight but strong
- Corrosion resistant
- Can be cut and shaped into panels, signs, or decorative products
- Smooth surface ensures high-definition image quality
Table: Common Alloys for Sublimation Aluminum Sheets
| Alloy | Features | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1060 | High purity, low cost | Indoor signs, small prints |
| 3003 | Anti-rust, moderate strength | Outdoor panels, photo blanks |
| 5052 | Strong corrosion resistance | Industrial & outdoor signage |
Metal Sublimation Printing Machine
- Heat press machine: Transfers ink into coated metal sheets
- Sublimation printer: Prints with sublimation ink on transfer paper
- Protective film & tape: Holds paper in place during heat transfer
Typical Machine Settings for Metal Sublimation
| Parameter | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 180°C – 200°C (356–392°F) |
| Time | 60 – 120 seconds |
| Pressure | Medium to High |
How We Make Metal Prints Explained
The process of making sublimation metal prints is simple and effective:
- Print design on sublimation transfer paper using sublimation ink
- Place paper on coated aluminum sheet with heat-resistant tape
- Press in heat press machine at recommended temperature and time
- Remove paper after cooling and check the image quality
- Final product: vivid, durable, and professional-looking print
Applications of Sublimation Printing on Metal
Sublimation on aluminum is versatile and used across different industries:
- Home decoration – HD photo panels, wall art
- Corporate branding – Office signs, company logos
- Retail & advertising – Displays, product boards
- Personal gifts – Customized photo panels, keepsakes
- Industrial use – Machine labels, ID tags
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can you sublimation print on metal?
Yes, but only on specially coated aluminum sheets designed for sublimation.
Q2: What are the settings for sublimation on metal?
Standard settings are 180°C – 200°C, 60–120 seconds, medium pressure.
Q3: How to make a sublimation metal sheet?
You need aluminum sheets pre-coated with polyester coating, available from sublimation suppliers.
Q4: What temperature do you sublimate metal?
Typically 190°C (374°F) for 90 seconds. Adjust based on sheet thickness.
Q5: Are sublimation metal prints durable?
Yes, they are scratch-resistant, waterproof, and UV-protected, making them last for years.
How We Make Metal Prints Explained
Our process for creating stunning metal prints involves several precise steps to ensure the highest quality:
- Image Preparation: Your digital image is optimized for resolution, color accuracy, and sharpness.
- Sublimation Printing: The optimized image is printed onto a special transfer paper using high-quality sublimation inks.
- Metal Blank Selection: We select the appropriate sublimation metal photo blank, usually aluminum, with a pristine polymer coating.
- Heat Press Application: The printed transfer paper is carefully aligned and placed onto the metal blank.
- Sublimation Process: The assembly is placed into a specialized heat press. Under high temperature and pressure, the ink transforms into a gas and infuses into the metal’s coating.
- Cooling and Finishing: After cooling, the paper is removed, revealing a vibrant, durable, and ready-to-display HD Metal Print.
Sublimation printing on metal Factory Supplier
Sublimation printing on metal is one of the best ways to produce high-quality, long-lasting, and vibrant photo panels, signs, and displays. With different alloys, thicknesses, and finishes, sublimation aluminum sheets are suitable for both personal and commercial projects.
By choosing a reliable factory supplier, you get:
- Consistent quality
- Wide range of sizes and finishes
- Competitive prices
- Fast delivery and customization options