deveng
Well-known member
I'm building a pair of EZ1073's and designing my own front panels. These won't be too much different than Colin's or Dan's panels since the hole spacing and control markings are fixed with the design. I've gone through the usual pros and cons of choices, CNC milling/engraving, powder coat with silk screen and laser engraving. There was no clear cut winner unless you have unlimited funds. I want the most authentic look and color and I don't want to spend a fortune getting it. During my search I happened upon Joe Malone's Neve panels and Chuck Dickenson's response about laser engraving with in-fill. I did some more research and found this appears to be an excellent option.
Laser engravers have been using "transfer tape" for a long time. It is similar to Chuck's description of using masking tape but transfer tape may be a better option. I've contacted my local trophy engraver and he can do this technique. So, I'm going to do a small test panel first. Humbrol has 14ml tins of Extra Dark Sea Grey enamel. I'll purchase a HVLP detail spray gun and paint/bake a small piece of raw aluminum. I believe I can get the transfer tape (or try masking tape) and work with the engraver on laser power and number of passes. Once the engraving is done, spray the panel with a white enamel, then peel the transfer tape off. I may need to adjust the text and art sizes to keep the edges clean and crisp.
For you paint and laser engraving experts, how many 14ml tins would I need to paint 2 EZ1073 panels, a small 4"x4' test panel and have a bit extra just in case for touch ups? Will the Humbrol solvent based enamel work well with laser engraving if properly applied and baked? The option of powder coat with this color is too expensive. Will the 2mm dots around the controls or any other small text/art engrave and in-fill clearly using this technique? Finally will the enamel paint survive the application and removal of the transfer tape without scratching or damaging the painted surface?
I'm going to give this procedure a shot and I'll let you all know how well (or bad) it turns out.
regards,
Jeff
Laser engravers have been using "transfer tape" for a long time. It is similar to Chuck's description of using masking tape but transfer tape may be a better option. I've contacted my local trophy engraver and he can do this technique. So, I'm going to do a small test panel first. Humbrol has 14ml tins of Extra Dark Sea Grey enamel. I'll purchase a HVLP detail spray gun and paint/bake a small piece of raw aluminum. I believe I can get the transfer tape (or try masking tape) and work with the engraver on laser power and number of passes. Once the engraving is done, spray the panel with a white enamel, then peel the transfer tape off. I may need to adjust the text and art sizes to keep the edges clean and crisp.
For you paint and laser engraving experts, how many 14ml tins would I need to paint 2 EZ1073 panels, a small 4"x4' test panel and have a bit extra just in case for touch ups? Will the Humbrol solvent based enamel work well with laser engraving if properly applied and baked? The option of powder coat with this color is too expensive. Will the 2mm dots around the controls or any other small text/art engrave and in-fill clearly using this technique? Finally will the enamel paint survive the application and removal of the transfer tape without scratching or damaging the painted surface?
I'm going to give this procedure a shot and I'll let you all know how well (or bad) it turns out.
regards,
Jeff