Custom Graphic Overlays
& Panel Overlays
A graphic overlay is the printed face of a piece of equipment or control panel, a durable layer that brings branding, labeling, and control identification together on a single surface. It shows the operator where the switches, indicators, and displays are, and it gives the equipment a clean, professional, long-lasting look. NPI – Nameplates Inc. manufactures custom graphic overlays in plastic, metal, and Metalphoto® anodized aluminum, printed and fabricated to your exact layout.
Whether you need a single prototype or a full production run, we match the material, printing, and finish to how the overlay will be used and where it will live.
What Is a Graphic Overlay?
A custom control panel brings the graphics, legends, and fabrication of a finished panel together on a single durable surface. The printed layer identifies each control, port, and indicator, while the fabrication adds the cutouts, holes, and shaping needed for switches, displays, and hardware to mount cleanly. The result is one professional assembly built to your drawing.
Graphic Overlay Materials
We manufacture graphic overlays in three core materials and recommend the one that fits your environment and design.
Plastic Overlays
Plastic overlays in polycarbonate or polyester are flexible, cost-effective, and highly printable, available in a range of textures and finishes. Polycarbonate is especially easy to die cut and holds fine graphic detail, which makes it a popular choice for equipment fronts and control graphics.
Metal Overlays
Metal overlays in aluminum add strength and a premium finish, standing up to heat, wear, and repeated handling. They suit equipment that needs both durable graphics and a solid feel.
Metalphoto® Overlays
Metalphoto® overlays are the most durable option, with the image sealed beneath the anodized aluminum surface. As a certified Metalphoto® converter, NPI produces overlays that resist heat, abrasion, corrosion, and chemicals for decades without fading, ideal for the most demanding industrial and outdoor equipment.
Printing, Textures & Cutouts
Every overlay is printed for durability and detail. We screen and digitally print with UV-resistant inks that hold their color and legibility through daily use and outdoor exposure, and we offer a range of surface textures.
We fabricate each overlay to your layout, with cutouts and windows for the switches, indicator lights, and displays your equipment uses, and we finish with specialty adhesives matched to your mounting surface so the overlay stays put.
Built to Last
Overlays take constant contact from the people who use them, so durability is built in. UV-resistant inks, durable substrates, and the right laminate keep graphics legible through years of handling, cleaning, and weather. We match the overlay to the environment so it performs for the life of the equipment.
Start Your Project
Have an overlay design or an existing part you need matched? Request a quote or talk to a product identification expert, and we’ll help you choose the material, printing, and finish for your application.