ADA-compliant signage plays a critical role in accessibility, ensuring that public spaces are navigable for everyone. These signs require tactile elements, such as raised text and Braille, as well as high-contrast designs for readability. Laser etching is an ideal method for creating ADA-compliant signs, offering the precision and versatility needed to meet legal requirements while maintaining a professional look.
What Makes a Sign ADA-Compliant?
ADA-compliant signs must feature tactile text that is raised by at least 1/32 of an inch, accompanied by Grade 2 Braille. High-contrast color schemes are also required to ensure visibility. For example, light-colored text on a dark background is a common choice.
Laser Etching for Precision
Laser systems create "raised" dots for tactile text and Braille on ADA-compliant signs through a process called material ablation and layering or etching and filling. Here's how it works:
1. Material Ablation with Layering
This method involves using two layers of material:
- Top Layer: The laser cuts away the material surrounding the areas where raised elements (like Braille dots) will appear.
- Base Layer: The uncut areas from the top layer remain intact, effectively forming raised dots or text against the base layer.
Process:
- A two-layer substrate, often called a "tactile material sheet," is used. For example, acrylic with a thin surface layer works well.
- The laser removes the surface layer precisely, leaving the raised dots or text intact.
This method is highly precise and ensures compliance with the required tactile height of at least 1/32 inch.
2. Etching and Filling
In this approach, the laser creates indents where Braille dots or raised text will appear, and these indents are later filled with a durable resin or epoxy to form raised elements.
Process:
- The laser etches indentations for the Braille dots or tactile text.
- A filling material, often a UV-cured or thermosetting resin, is applied into the indents. Once cured, the material forms raised dots or text that meet ADA specifications.
This technique is ideal for single-layer materials like metals or acrylic.
3. Direct Material Swelling (Specialized Materials)
Some materials are designed to swell when exposed to laser energy. This technique is less common but can be used for creating raised elements without the need for layering or filling.
Process:
- The laser applies energy to specific areas of a specialized substrate, causing it to expand and form raised dots or text.
Which Machines Handle This Best?
- The Vytek L-Star is ideal for layered or filled methods on organic materials like acrylic or wood.
- The FCL Series and FC510LT are better suited for engraving and filling on metals, ensuring sharp, durable results.