Channel letters are one of the many marketing and brand recognition tools available. Whether it is indoor or outdoor malls or stand alone shopping center, channel letters are often the best choice available to identify a business. Channel letters come in a wide variety of lettering types, fonts, styles, and LED or Neon illumination.
Front lit channel letter signs are the most common channel letter type. As the name implies, these signs emit illumination only from the front (or face) of the letters. They are often used in both shopping malls and outdoor plazas.
A standard channel letter is a 3 dimensional letter that is fabricated from sheet metal, most often aluminum, since it will not rust. A flat sheet of aluminum is typically cut using a computer-controlled router that becomes the back of the channel and is the basis for the letter shape.
The sides of the channel letter, called the returns, are formed by bending a 3 to 6-inch-wide (150 mm) strip of aluminum sheet around the aluminum back. This return can be welded at the seam or flanged and riveted to the back to create a solid can in the shape of the letter.
A translucent plastic face usually of 3/16″ thick sheet acrylic or polycarbonate is cut to fit the open face of the letter can. A trim cap border is applied to its edges which gives the letter face a finished appearance and creates a fastening surface to attach it to the letter can. When iluminated at night, channel letters draw the eye of passers-by.
The letter can is painted and fitted with any lighting components necessary such as neon gas tubes or light-emitting diode (LED) modules. LEDs in a channel letter have a life of over 100,000 hours before needing replacement, and are the most energy efficient option for lighted signage creating significant electrical bill savings. LED channel letters are about 80% more efficient than neon-lit channel letters, and provide a green and environment friendly sign solution.
Your sign symbolizes your philosophy and style. Captivating Signs is the industry leader in helping businesses communicate their message. Call us today and we’ll create a sign that will win hearts, minds and souls of your customers, and will serve as a landmark for years to come.
source: wikipedia.org and others.
