When designing a new building or renovating the exterior of an existing one, there are a wide variety of options to choose from, but one option provides some of the largest benefits: aluminum composite panels (ACM panels). Made up of two distinct components (metal and nonmetal) they retain the core features of the original product materials (metal aluminum, non-metallic polyethylene plastic) and amplify the benefits of their material properties. These panels are highly versatile and are one of the most popular choices for use in modern structures.
Below, we detail their incredible versatility, benefits, and main uses.
The Design of ACM Panels
One of the main reasons why these panels are chosen for so many modern projects is largely due to how easily they can be fabricated. In fact, ACM panels can be made in an endless number of shapes and sizes to perfectly fit the aesthetic of any structure or building. Custom panels can easily be made to be column covers, curved, or perforated.
These panels also come in a wide array of finishing choices. These can include:
- Prismatic finishes
- Metallic finishes
- Mica finishes
- Anodized finishes
- Natural wood finishes
- Stone finishes
- Solid and matte finishes
Main Benefits of ACM Panels
They’re Long-Lasting
ACM panels are frequently used in the exterior aesthetic of modern businesses because of their resistance to the elements. They can provide years of protection against both air and water infiltration.
They also degrade very slowly due to advancements in paint application and coating technology meaning they will consistently look great for many, many years.
They’re Affordable
ACM panels are actually most cost-effective than ever before. Significant improvements in product technology, manufacturing efficiency, and installation techniques have made it much easier to produce these kinds of panels and thus, the greater savings have been passed onto consumers.
Because of these savings, ACM panels are even getting used in interiors as well.
They’re Easy to Maintain
Cleaning and upkeep are a breeze as is a trademark of many items with aluminum that already benefit from never rusting. ACM panels are crafted in a modular way, so even if panels do get damaged they can easily be replaced and installed in a highly affordable manner.
Applications of ACM Panels
As we mentioned previously, ACM panels are incredibly versatile, and as such, can be used in a wide range of applications.
Most commonly, they are used for:
- Exterior cladding
- Interior feature walls and entries
- Canopies
- Signage and corporate identities
- Column covers
They can frequently be spotted on many kinds of buildings worldwide including office buildings, warehouses, multi-family residential homes, hotels, restaurants, car dealerships, gas stations, schools, retail shopping complexes, and even recreation centers.
How ACM Panels Contribute to Sustainability
Unlike other kinds of cladding of similar types, these panels are regularly made with a high percentage of recycled materials. ACM panels can even boast the same level of rigidity and strength as solid aluminum panels with a third less aluminum used in their fabrication and manufacturing.
The construction and makeup of these panels also offer greater thermal insulation—thus reducing energy costs.
Overall, ACM panels offer one of the best solutions for use in both building interiors and exteriors and will no doubt continue to be a popular choice in construction for many years to come.