Marine Grade Stainless Steel Control Plates: Laser Cut and Engraved to Last
Control plates are easy to overlook until they fail. When a label fades or a plate corrodes on a boat, a mine site or a wash-down area, operators are left guessing which switch does what. For harsh environments, the answer is 316 marine grade stainless steel, laser cut and engraved.
Why marine grade stainless steel?
Salt water, humidity, chemicals and full sun will corrode or degrade many materials surprisingly quickly. Marine grade 316 stainless contains molybdenum on top of the chromium and nickel in standard 304, which greatly improves its resistance to salt, chlorides and pollution. It's the same metal used for boat fittings and coastal railings.
- Corrosion resistance: holds up to salt spray, wash-down and chemicals.
- Strength: rigid plates that stay flat and secure.
- Low maintenance: wipes clean and keeps its finish.
- A professional look: a clean brushed finish that suits any panel.
Why fibre laser cutting and engraving?
Our fibre laser cuts the plate to shape, including holes, cut-outs and slots, then engraves the text, logos and symbols into the metal itself. Because nothing is printed on the surface, the markings won't peel, fade or wash off.
- Precision: accurate dimensions even on complex shapes and small details.
- Fine detail: small text, logos, schematics and diagrams engrave crisply.
- Consistency: every plate in a run is identical.
- A custom fit: plates are made to suit your exact equipment and panel layout.
Where marine grade control plates are used
- Boats, marinas and coastal infrastructure
- Mining and processing plants
- Food processing and wash-down areas
- Water and wastewater treatment
- Outdoor switchboards and switchboard labels
- Hydraulic and pneumatic control panels
Choosing the right plate
Tell us where the plate is going and how it will be mounted, and we'll recommend the thickness, finish and fixing to suit: countersunk holes, studs or 3M VHB adhesive. For a lighter plate with bright contrast, black anodised aluminium is a good alternative indoors. For recessed, paint filled lettering, ask about acid etched plates.
Questions we often get
What's the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
316 contains molybdenum, which makes it much more resistant to salt and chemicals. For anything outdoors or near the coast, 316 is the better choice.
How long will the engraving last?
The marking is in the metal itself, so it lasts as long as the plate under normal conditions.
Can you make plates to my drawing?
Yes. Send a DXF, DWG or PDF, or a photo of the old plate, and we'll send a proof before we make it.
Ready to talk about your job? Send us the details below, call 02 4030 5878 or email office@planetengraving.net.
