DuraBlack - Durable Signage, Placards, Barcodes and Asset Tags with Any CO2 Laser


DuraBlack™ is CO2 laser markable aluminum for durable, on-demand marking for harsh operating environments. In side-by-side tests, DuraBlack outperforms black anodized aluminum and laser markable acrylic tape in select applications. DuraBlack is resistant to sunlight (UV-radiation), abrasion, high-temperatures, salt-spray and chemical exposure. Because of its ability to perform across a range of challenging environments, DuraBlack meets several government, industrial and military specifications including MIL-STD 130N, A-A-50271 (MIL-P-514D) and MIL-STD-15024F, Type L.
Composed of a multi-level coating available upon 0.005" or 0.020" thick aluminum, DuraBlack can be attached to either curved or flat surfaces with adhesive, rivets or screws. It is imaged with any CO2 marking laser to produce a durable, high-resolution barcode or human-readable image.
Independent Laboratory Certifications
Because of its ability to perform across a range of challenging environments, DuraBlack meets an array of government, industrial and military specifications.
A-A-50271 (~MIL-P-514D)
MIL-STD-15024F, Type L (laser generated plate)
According to Type L, testing shall "be determined by the acquiring activity and the supplier". Horizons ISG recommends the standards of A-A-50271 be adopted for MIL-STD-15024F, Type L.
Standard UL 969, “Marking and Labeling Systems”
Manufacturer Performance Evaluation
| Outdoor/UV Exposure | 5,000 hrs of accelerated UV/weather with Q-Sun XE-3/HS (Estimated ~8-10 years) | |
| Abrasive Environments | 4,000 cycles on a Taber Abraser, CS17 with 1kg wheel load | |
| High-Temperature Environment | 700°F for one hour | |
| Marine Environments | 30 days of salt fog exposure as per ASTM B117 | |
| Corrosive/Chemical Environments | 96 hrs in many MIL-STD-810G fluids | |
| *Tests were modeled after those established by the U.S. Department of Defense under MIL-STD-810G and MIL-STD 130. Chemicals tested include all MIL-STD-810G fluids and several others (see the Technical Brief for a full list). Outcomes were measured with a Siemens/Microscan verifier on 15mil 2D barcodes. A drop of more than two letter grades indicates failure - as per AIM DPM-1-2006 and MIL-STD-130N. Weather tests are on-going. Horizons ISG does not warrant performance of its materials in any environment. | ||
Please review the Technical Performance Brief for details about DuraBlack environmental performance relative to competitive label technologies.
Product Options:
- Sizes: 10" x 12", 12" x 20", 20" x 24"
- Thicknesses: 0.005", 0.020" (0.005” available only in 10” x 12” and 0.020” available only in 12" x 20" or 20" x 24")
- Attachment Options: 3M 350 Series High-Performance Adhesive or Mechanical (rivets/screws).
How to Order:
Call 1-800-482-7758 or contact your Horizons ISG Sales Person. DuraBlack is easily marked with a CO2 laser at your location – giving you complete control over where and when asset tags are created. If you prefer to purchase pre-printed labels or pre-fabricated blanks, please contact us for a list of independent converters who are expert, equipped and ready for your call. If you do not have a laser system, we can recommend the models that will best meet your needs.
Use the links below to learn more:
- DuraBlack Product Sheet
- DuraBlack Technical Performance Brief
- DuraBlack Commercial Pricing (USA)
- DuraBlack Commercial Pricing (Canada)
- DuraBlack Processing Guide
