Awardcraft Process Descriptions
Yag Laser Engraving
This is the type of engraving we use for all metal surfaces including brass, gold
plate, silver-plate, chrome-plate and pewter. Y.A.G. stands for Yittrium Aluminum
Garnet. This computer technology utilizes a laser beam that produces near infrared
high intensity light through a man-made crystal that produces a permanent, clean
sharp image onto metal. The laser creates an image by either vaporizing or melting
the material, leaving an engraved mark.
CO2 Laser Engraving
We use this method of imprinting on wood, cultured granite, acrylic, leather and
cork. This laser uses a CO2 gas-activated electric current that produces a low intensity
laser beam. We use a 50-watt deep-etch engraving on all of our crystal items.
CO2 Laser Engraving w/Color Fill
This method uses the same CO2 technology as above for cultured granite and wood
products. Then, the etched areas are filled in with ink, usually in a black or gold
color. The item is masked to cover the areas that do not get filled with color.
Silk Screening
This is a printing process in which ink or paint is forced through a fine screen,
usually made of polyester or other fine mesh, onto the surface below. A coating
on the screen allows color to pass through in some places but not in others. The
use of a squeegee forces the ink through a stencil that creates the image. We use
industrial enamel, epoxy, and vinyl inks depending on the surface of the product
finish.
Sand Etching
This method involves sand blasting over a specially designed mask material applied
to the surface of the product, which allows the etching to take place in a controlled
area. After the actual etching takes place, a paint operation may be added to change
the etched area from a gentle frosted surface to any PMS color desired by the customer.
The masking is then peeled off to create the desired art requested from the customer.
Metal Etching
Metal etching is a chemical process. This process takes place in a controlled environment
to allow chemicals to attack a zinc surface to show the desired design. After the
etching process, the pieces can be antique finished to a silver, bronze, or gold
color. Additional PMS colors may also be added to achieve the desired design.
Water Jet Technology
Water jet technology is simply high pressure water mixed with an abrasive to create
a controlled erosion of the product being cut. This process enables us to cut any
shape desired from virtually any solid material within the specifications of the
machine.
Deco Casting
The deco casting process uses flat artwork and ultraviolet light to produce a photopolymer
mold. The mold in turn is used to create a silicone mold into which a two part resin
is poured to make a dimensional casting. This can be a multi-level piece or a sculpted
casting. Paint will be applied to achieve the customer’s desired design. An antique
finish may also be applied if desired.