Material choice shapes how a letter looks, which finishes are available and where it can be installed. Waterjet cutting typically produces clean edges without heat damage.

Why Waterjet Cutting Stands Apart for Metal Letters

Heat is a particular concern with temperature-sensitive metals such as aluminum. Dust, smoke and other byproducts are minimal or absent, unlike grinding, plasma cutting or laser cutting. Buyers should still ask any provider to show edge samples before approving a run.

Metal Materials for Waterjet Cut Letters

Saxton Industrial produces letters in aluminum (Alloy 6061), brass (70/30), commercial bronze (90/10), copper, muntz metal (60/40) and stainless steel (Alloy 304 or 316). Each metal has its own color, weight and surface character.

Finishing Options for Durable Letters

Letters can be satin or polished, painted in over 16 types of colors, or anodized or oxidized. Protective clear coatings are applied to all metals except stainless steel and polished Alloy 2024 aluminum, in gloss or semi-gloss. Exterior installations use polyurethane-based coatings for weather resistance.

How to Choose Materials by Application Environment

Choose letter materials to match the installation setting. A few questions help narrow the field:

● Is the sign indoors or outdoors, and how much weather will it see?
● Is the site coastal or industrial, where air can be harsh on metal?
● Should the metal keep a uniform look, or is a natural change in surface color acceptable?
● Does the finish need a protective coating, and is that coating suited to exterior use?

Flat waterjet letters are more economical than cast letters for certain simple applications. Separately, the cutting method can hold fine cuts in many designs. Ask for a sample or drawing proof when lettering is small or detailed.

About Saxton Industrial

Founded in 1947, Saxton Industrial is a U.S. manufacturer of custom trophies, awards, plaques, medals, coins, pins and recognition products. Its Glendale, California facility handles design, engineering, fabrication, engraving and finishing in-house, from single prototypes to high-volume orders. The company produces waterjet cut letters for architectural signage and building identity.

Media contact

Saxton Industrial
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 18182650702
Website: https://www.saxtonindustrial.com