What is Aluminum Composite Board (ACM)?

Aluminum composite material (ACM) is a three-layer panel material made of two thin layers of pre-finished aluminum bonded on either side of a polyethylene (PE) core. ACM panels are exceptional for indoor and outdoor applications that require good dimensional stability, light weight, strength, and durability. ACM possesses excellent UV resistance, scratch resistance, weatherability, anti-corrosion skin, and can be easily cleaned allowing the material to maintain its brilliant look. ACM board are printed with a sleek, matte, non-glare finish that's perfect for show your board outdoors. However, if you prefer, a gloss laminate is available for a additional charge.

Why not just use cheaper paper, foam board or PVC for outdoor shows?

None of these materials are good for show boards because all of them have one poor property or another when used outdoors.

Paper will need to be framed with plexiglass in order to protect them. This will trap moisture and they will warp and fog up.

Foam Core is easily damage and scratched. Corners are often crushed when transporting.

PVC and Acrylic are good products but are prone to bowing when used outdoors in direct sunlight.

All of the above products have poor UV resistance and will fade over time.

How are these boards printed?

Showtime boards are printed DTM (direct to material) on a UV flatbed printer. They are not printed on film and mounted to the board. Mounting film can de-laminate (peel) when exposed to the elements. UV inks offer excellent color and are scratch, water, chemical and fade resistant. A Showtime board should last a minimum of 5 years printed this way. Posters are printed by the same method on quality poster board and will last even longer when used indoors