How to Choose the Right Aluminium Composite Panel (ACP) for Your Project

Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP), also called ACM (Aluminium Composite Material), are highly versatile — used everywhere from signage to building cladding, partitions, and protective wall linings. But with different colours, thicknesses, finishes, and applications, choosing the right ACP can be tricky. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best decision for your project.

1. Understand the Key Specifications

Before choosing your ACP, it’s important to know what the key specifications mean and how they affect performance:

• Panel Size and Thickness: ACP boards usually come in standard sheet sizes like 2440 mm × 1220 mm (as offered by Protrade Supplies). Thickness can vary in both the aluminium skins and the core.
  
• Core Material: ACP panels are made of two aluminium skins bonded to a core material. Common cores are polyethylene (PE) and fire-resistant (FR) cores. The core’s composition affects weight, fire rating, and rigidity.
  
• Finish: The surface finish of the ACP — gloss, matte, metallic, or textured — impacts aesthetics, weather resistance, and how easy it is to clean.
  
• Colour: Colour choice isn’t only about design; different colours absorb more or less heat, which can affect building thermal performance.
  
• Fire Rating: Depending on the application, especially for façades or high-rise buildings, fire-rated ACP (FR core) may be required under local building codes.
  
• UV / Weather Resistance: For outdoor applications, UV-resistant coating helps prevent fading or degradation over time.
  

2. Match the ACP to Your Application

Different applications demand different ACP characteristics. Here’s how to choose based on common use cases:

a) Signage (Shopfronts, Billboards, Real Estate Signs)

• Recommended Thickness / Core: PE core is often sufficient for signs, unless you need a fire-rating.
  
• Finish: Gloss or semi-gloss works well to catch attention; metallic finishes can add premium appeal.
  
• Colour: Bright or neutral colours depending on brand identity.
  
• Benefits: Lightweight ACP panels are easy to cut and install, and their flat surface ensures signs look clean and professional.
  

b) Building Cladding / Façades

• Recommended Thickness / Core: For cladding, especially in commercial or multi-storey buildings, consider fire-rated cores (FR) to comply with building regulations.
  
• Finish: Matte or textured finish often preferred to minimize glare and create a sophisticated look.
  
• Colour: Neutral or muted tones help with architectural harmony; darker colours may absorb more heat, so factor in thermal management.
  
• Benefits: ACP offers durability, weather resistance, and a modern aesthetic, making it a top choice for façades.
  

c) Partitions & Interior Fit-Outs

• Recommended Thickness / Core: PE core is usually fine for internal partitions.
  
• Finish: Matte or satin finish helps reduce reflections, providing a clean but soft visual.
  
• Colour: Corporate colours, whites, or custom shades suit offices or retail spaces.
  
• Benefits: ACP panels are easy to fabricate, lightweight, and can be installed quickly — ideal for interior systems, shop-fit projects, and commercial interiors.
  

d) Protective Wall Linings & Splashbacks

• Recommended Thickness / Core: Use core material that resists moisture and impact; depending on the use, FR core might be beneficial.
  
• Finish: Gloss finishes are easier to clean and are ideal for hygiene-sensitive environments (like kitchens or clinics).
  
• Colour: White or light-coloured panels help maintain a clean look.
  
• Benefits: ACP is resistant to impacts, easy to clean, and adds a sleek, seamless finish to wall surfaces.
  

3. Balancing Performance, Cost & Maintenance

When deciding on ACP, you want a balance of upfront cost, long-term performance, and maintenance:

• Cost Considerations: PE core ACP is more affordable than fire-rated FR core, but for some applications (especially façade), FR core is non-negotiable.
  
• Installation Costs: Lightweight panels reduce handling and labour costs; complex shapes or finishes may require more expertise.
  
• Maintenance: Gloss panels may show dirt and fingerprints more easily than matte ones; consider cleaning regimes.
  
• Long-Term Value: High-quality ACP panels last decades, resist weathering, and keep their colour and finish — making them a better long-term investment than cheaper materials that may degrade.
  

4. Regulatory Compliance and Safety

• Always check local building and fire regulations in your area. For façades or cladding works, fire-rated ACP (FR core) might be required.
  
• Confirm the panel’s fire certification and rating before ordering.
  
• Make sure your installer is familiar with ACP installation best practices to ensure safety, especially on external walls or high-traffic areas.
  

5. Choosing a Trusted Supplier

Selecting a reliable supplier is critical. Here’s what to look for:

• Product Range: Ensure the supplier stocks the sizes, cores, and finishes you need (e.g., Protrade Supplies offers ACP panels in 2440 × 1220 × 3 mm).
  
• Quality Assurance: Choose suppliers that guarantee consistent thickness, high-quality finishes, and proper backing.
  
• Trade Support: Prefer suppliers who can offer trade pricing, technical guidance, and wholesale deals.
  
• Delivery & Lead Time: Confirm how panels will be delivered and if lead times fit your project schedule.
  

6. Final Checklist Before Ordering

Takeaway

Choosing the right Aluminium Composite Panel (ACP) for your project depends on understanding your application, performance needs, and long-term goals. For signage, you can go with lighter, PE-core panels; for building cladding, fire-rated cores may be necessary; and for interior partitions or splashbacks, finish and colour are key.

At Protrade Supplies, we offer a range of high-quality ACP panels (2440 mm × 1220 mm × 3 mm) in both white and black — with competitive pricing and trade support. Reach out to us and let our team help you pick the perfect panel for your project.

Contact Us for Enquiries:

📞+61 420 567 350
✉️ sales@protradesupplies.com.au