Advance Corporation - Braille-Tac™ Division

Available in Double-Etch process, Exterior rated

MR – MANUFACTURER

The Braille-Tac™ Division of Advance Corporation manufactures a product-line of architecturally designed interior/exterior way-finding sign systems and standard & custom ADA compliant signs. We distribute our products nationally on a wholesale basis through sign shops, contractors, and design build firms. Established in 1941, our manufacturing technologies and experience include chemical and mechanical machining (CAM) and custom metal, wood, and plastic fabrication of decorative interior/exterior way-finding systems. Our state of the art graphics and production capabilities as well as our wide array of materials and processes enable us to manufacture standard and custom designed signs and plaques exactly to your specifications. We also offer design services, CAD, and compliance assistance. Advance Corporation was on the ANSI Accredited Standards Committee (A117) representing the ARA trade association for over four years.

We are active with the following organizations:

Construction Specification Institute (CSI)
American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Awards and Recognition Association (ARA)
International Sign Association (ISA)
Society of Environmental Graphic Designers (SEGD)
United States Sign Council (USSC)

Zinc (Photocast) signs are one piece metal signs in which all components are integral. The designs are produced on film, which is placed on the photosensitive sheet of material and exposed to a special light source. The exposed photosensitive image on the material is then developed and chemically machined with acid to create raised and recessed areas on the metal plate. The plate is trimmed to size and decorated to the designer’s specifications using the highest quality graffiti resistant, thermal-set, acrylic polyurethane finish.

PP – PRODUCT PRESENTATION

Zinc (Photocast) are one-piece metal signs with raised or recessed characters.

Features of ZINC (Photocast): (deep etch)

Capable of being machined
Metal finish on raised surfaces (Silver-tone, Goldt-one or Bronze-tone)
Custom color matching is available
One piece construction
Raised characters
Recessed characters
Rectangular and shaped signs up to 22" x 35"
Variety of material thickness (.064", .153", and .250")
Capable of being Double Etched

Benefits of Zinc (Photocast): (deep etch)

10-15 working days for production
Easy to clean
Graffiti remover resistant
Indoor & outdoor rated
Recyclable material

Photocast sheet sizes and thickness:

22" x 35" x .064"
22" x 35" x .153"
22" x 35" x .250"

Custom manufacturing capabilities include but are not limited to various shapes, sizes, combinations of color, thickness, dimension, fabrication, and decorating techniques. Advance Corporation’s 62 plus years of industry experience combined with our numerous manufacturing technologies makes us a national leader in the industry. Zinc (Photocast) products should be specified for any of the following types of facilities, but are not limited to – Educational, Governmental, Corporate, Industrial, Hospitality, Health Care, and Sports Facilities. Other applications include industrial machinery panels, ATM faceplates, and recognition/dedication plaques.

AI – ASSEMBLY and INSTALLATION

Factory made and site installed by Contractor. Installation instructions are available. Installation is compatible with Federal and State code requirements. Mount metal plates in accordance with State and Federal codes. Manufacturers recommended adhesives include: 3M 444 film, 3M 4416 foam, or 3M VHB 9473 film, 3M VHB 4930 foam, and 3M VHB 4950 foam. For applications that require vandal proof screws, please contact the factory for shop drawings that display suggested placement and options. In many cases these signs will require special mounting devises due to their weight and size. Contact factory for mounting options.

CP – COMPONENTS and PARTS

Zinc (Photocast) signs are manufactured from metal and decorated with an antique finish or a baked-on acrylic polyurethane enamel paint. Optional and variable components include decorative framing units, holders and mechanical signs.

MF – MATERIALS and FINISHES

Zinc (Photocast) signs and plates can be single-etched with raised copy and an antique finish or our double-etched finish. Add vibrant colors to your signs by using our color-filling technique in the recessed copy areas. Photocast signs and plates can be single-etched with raised or recessed characters and decorated in a Silver-tone, Gold-tone, or Bronze-tone finish. Double-etched Zinc provides a unique look as the background of the plate takes on a non-directional pattern in a Gold/Gold, Silver/Silver, or Silver/Gold finish.

TS – TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Zinc products are specified by size, thickness, shape, specific text, decorative colors, and mounting method. Probable useful life - please see warranty below.

Warranty:

Advance Corporation will repair or replace any product returned for faulty material or workmanship for up to one year from date of invoice. Returns must be pre-authorized by the factory, shipped pre-paid and must be accompanied by the original invoice number. Limited warranty does not include the cost of removal, reinstallation or the cost for the transportation. Advance Corporation will not assume responsibility for damaged caused by careless handling, improper installation techniques, misuse, vandalism, or where repairs or alterations have been attempted by others. If invoice is not paid within manufacturers terms (net/30 from date of invoice), limited warranty will not apply.

ED – ENVIRONMENTAL and RECYCLING DATA

Zinc signs are chemically milled metal and they are natural organic metals. All of the metals are extracted from earth’s elements. As part of the manufacturing, these metals are chemically milled in a closed loop acid etching system. The EPA regulates our manufacturing process. All metal byproducts are recycled. Zinc is recycled through scrap metal processors.

AC – AVAILABILITY and COST

Zinc products can be obtained through Advance Corporation and other national competitors. Advance Corporation’s production time is 10-15 working days upon receipt of approved specifications/submittals. Cost variables are in accordance with size, thickness, design, and amount of decorative colors per sign. These metal products are a mid-range priced product compared to other materials in the industry.

OM – OPERATION and MAINTENANCE

Zinc is a permanent installation and does not require any general maintenance. Individual replacement signs are available per project specification.