Dibond Material Guide

Dibond, or Alupanel, are brand names of ‘Aluminium Composite Sheets’ or ‘Sandwich Panel’. It is a premium material used for signage with the highest durability of the materials we use. A rigid polyethylene core is sandwiched between two 0.15mm thin aluminium layers, which results in excellent printing properties. Dibond is ideal for indoor and outdoor applications as it is rigid, super strong and weather-proof. The material is highly recyclable as the polyethylene core and aluminium sheets can be separated and disposed of.

We print directly onto the panel using durable latex inks which won’t crack, peel or fade. Digital printing works exceptionally well on Dibond signs due to its extremely flat surface. This gives the highest quality results from any sign material.

The most popular thickness is 3mm, which comes in a maximum single sheet size of 2400mm x 1200mm (just under 8ft x 4ft), but custom sizes can be purchased online using our Dibond calculator.

Dibond has a great surface for printing onto, which results in a consistent high-quality finish. It is strong and 100% weatherproof, but still lightweight. The sandwich construction of the Dibond aluminium makes it very rigid so it lays flat regardless of temperature fluctuations, and will not rust or deteriorate in the sun. It has a temperature resistance range from minus 50°C to plus 80°C.

Dibond is well suited to permanent signage such as information and warning signs, company and shop front signs, and parking signs. If you find that 10mm Foamex is too heavy for your intended application, Dibond may be the answer as it withstands higher wind load and weighs far less.

Dibond can be fixed to a variety of surfaces depending on the application. It can be drilled into easily so you can use screws, sign stand-offs, or it can be riveted.  Alternatively, it can be hung from ceilings using wires, or it can be attached to smooth surfaces using double sided tape. 

The type of surface you are affixing to will determine the best method for doing so. For example, VHB (very high bond) tape works well on smooth surfaces whereas mechanical fixing is best for industrial surfaces. Mechanical fixing can be undertaken by drilling holes through the sign and using screws with colour coded cap covers or aluminium sign stand-offs. We also offer custom Dibond aluminium signs that come with post mounts for permanent outdoor applications.