Aluminum Composite Material, or ACM, is a lightweight, versatile and durable material that has become one of the sign industry's most versatile and widely used sign substrates. It consists of two thin sheets of aluminum that are bonded to a plastic core, typically made of polyethylene (PE) or a fire-resistant (FR) mineral-filled material. This unique composition makes the material exceptionally strong and weather resistant while maintaining a low overall weight. While ACM is widely available from most sign distributors, not all ACM is the same. See what sets Maxmetal apart from alternative ACM brands in the sign industry.
Top Features to Look for When Choosing a Quality ACM
- Engineered ACM – A True PE Core
- The Brightness of a White Point
- Easy Peel Liner
- Digitally Printable ACM
- Paint Quality on the Substrate
- Superior Bonding of ACM
- A Full Line of ACM Products
- Warranty – Backed by Grimco
What Are the Advantages of ACM Compared to Other Composites?
Rather than using traditional MDO plywood, aluminum, and other composites, sign fabricators are switching to ACM because it is more durable and versatile. Sign shops also like that ACM can be routed, cut with panel saws, and easily made into smaller sizes or sign blanks.
1. Engineered ACM – A True PE Core
Explore the core. A lightweight, recycled pure PE core, free of impurities, offers both strength and flexibility compared to other cores that rely on 'fillers' or stiffening agents. Unlike cores with these additives, a true PE plastic core minimizes wear on router bits and saw blades, helping to reduce replacement part costs and avoid production slowdowns due to frequent maintenance. While many ACM manufacturers use fillers to cut costs and save time, these shortcuts often end up costing sign and fabrication shops more time and money in the long run. Maxmetal ACM is engineered with a true PE core to boost production efficiency, saving both time and money.
2. The Brightness of a White Point
When it comes to ACM, the white point matters more than you might think. The brightness of the white surface of the substrate directly impacts how colors appear when printed—brighter whites mean more vibrant, true-to-color graphics. In electrical signs, a high-quality white point ensures better, more consistent illumination. Before choosing an ACM, take a moment to compare white points—it can make all the difference in the final look of your signage. With Maxmetal, you get one of the brightest, most consistent white points on the market, ensuring your signs look their best every time.
3. Easy Peel Liner
If you've ever wrestled with a stubborn liner, you know how much time it can waste. A thin, easy-peel liner might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in your workflow. Unlike thicker, black-backed liners that take extra effort to remove, a low-tac liner peels away smoothly, keeping production moving and saving valuable time. And since time is money, that efficiency adds up fast. Whether you're using Maxmetal ACM with its EZ Peel Liner or any other ACM product, a hassle-free liner is worth considering.
4. Digitally Printable ACM
Did you know that not all ACM is created equal for direct printing? Digitally Printable ACM is designed for better ink adhesion with quality vibrant prints, allowing you assured print results and increased production and versatility with projects. Digitally Printable ACM, like Maxmetal, utilizes a special optimized coating that helps ink adhere to the substrates with quality results. All Maxmetal ACM White sheets come standard as a digitally printable product.
5. Paint Quality on the Substrate
Does your ACM supplier offer a variety of paint finishes? Are they using Polyester (PE) paint? PE paint is the standard paint used for most Aluminum Composite Material. Other finishes such as HDPE, PVDF, and FEVE are also available to meet many requirements. Substandard paints are more prone to fading, cracking, and peeling in outdoor conditions, which can shorten the lifespan of your signage. Maxmetal's standard PE paint coating is proven as a quality paint coating paired with one of the best warranties in the industry.
6. Superior Bonding of ACM
Not all ACM panels are built the same, and the bonding adhesive that holds them together is a big reason why. A strong bond between the aluminum skins and the core means better stability, advanced fabrication functionality, and long-term durability in any weather. Without it, you risk issues like delamination, cracking, warping, or dents—problems that can lead to costly rework or replacements. That’s why Maxmetal ACM is engineered with a high-quality, advanced bonding adhesive, ensuring your signs stay strong and reliable in any environment.
7. A Full Line of ACM Products
Find an ACM supplier that offers a wide variety of thicknesses, sizes, and finishes so that you can find the right solution for your project. Some suppliers source their ACM from multiple vendors which can result in inconsistencies with product quality and delivery times. Grimco is the exclusive distributor of Maxmetal, manufactured entirely at the Multipanel facility in the UK, ensuring consistent quality and reliable availability when you need it. Maxmetal offers one of the largest ACM product portfolios in the sign industry.
8. Warranty – Backed by Grimco
A strong warranty isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a sign of confidence in the product you’re investing in. When comparing ACM options, warranties can vary widely depending on quality. Many standard ACM panels on the market offer coverage for up to five years, but not all warranties are created equal.
With Maxmetal, you get one of the best warranties in the industry, backed by Grimco’s expertise and commitment to quality. Because Grimco handles every aspect of Maxmetal—from the factory floor to your door—you can trust that your ACM is built to perform and supported by a company that stands behind its products. That means fewer worries, greater peace of mind, and long-term reliability for your projects.
Choosing the Right ACM: Why It Matters
At the end of the day, the details make all the difference. From the strength of its core to the brightness of its white point, the removability of its liner, and the durability of its bonding adhesive, each feature plays a role in how well your signs perform and how efficient your production process can be. Investing in a high-quality ACM like Maxmetal means fewer headaches, better results, and long-term reliability—all backed by Grimco’s commitment to quality and one of the best warranties in the industry. When it comes to choosing ACM, make sure you're looking beyond the surface. The right material doesn’t just save time and money—it sets your business up for success.
