Picture Perf

Please Note: Graepels offer expert advice on all considerations listed to ensure optimal results and the highest quality output for your application.

There are a few more considerations when using a product like picture perf, however, we work closely with you to ensure that these points are considered and understood.

1. Placement of Picture Perf: It is important that the background is not busy (e.g., trees, buildings etc.) as this can interfere and compete with your picture perf image. The proximity of your picture perf to its surroundings is important as you can see through the perforations,
2. Proximity and viewpoint to the Picture Perf: The proximity in which the picture perf is intended to be viewed can help to determine what hole size to use. Larger perforations up close will appear more abstract, however, when viewed further away the image will become clearer.
3. Detail & Contrast: The most important consideration is detail and contrast. This balance can be achieved by considering the overall size of the area to be perforated and choosing a hole size that gives enough detail but also contrast between the hole sizes to give the best output and clarity of the image.
4. Colour, Finish & Contrast: The more contrast the more striking picture perf becomes. We recommend that if the panel has a dark background the panels are painted in a lighter colour and vice versa to ensure optimum clarity. Light coloured panels and daylight provide little contrast. A reflective finish/surface can also interfere with the clarity of the image.
5. Natural and artificial lighting: Natural daylight works extremely well with picture perf and done correctly picture perf can cast the most beautiful shadows. For jobs where the panels have a solid background e.g., a wall but the panels need to be dark, we recommend using artificial lighting although it is important to consider the effects of this at night.
6. Image & Sheet Size: Images can be kept on one sheet or spread over multiple sheets. One image per panel requires smaller perforations and detail, this works for smaller designs where the images are intended to be viewed close – see point 2. proximity and viewpoint. However, if the area is larger than the image can be spread over the entire quantity of panels for a more striking effect.
   % Open Area & Pitch: where the picture perf panel’s function is to act as a sun, rain, or wind screen or for ventilation purposes 30% to 40% can be achieved. It is difficult to get a higher % open area and still maintain contrast.

• Metal Types & Grades: There are a range of metal grades for each metal type. Our team can advise on the best grades to use depending on your application.
  
• Metal Thickness: Depending on the use of your perforated product, different thicknesses of material are recommended. It is important to pick the right thickness to avoid future issues, to ensure structural integrity or issues during manufacturing or fabrication work. If material is too thin it can be susceptible to warping or damage. Consulting with our team for more insight.
• Perforation Size, Shape and Type: Hole shapes and size will contribute to the visibility through the perforations and the overall outcome and aesthetic these should be carefully considered. The end use can be a good place to start when figuring out what you need. Our reps have extensive experience with the product and can guide you accordingly.
• Pattern & Pitch: We can perforate in few degrees of perforation e.g., 30, 60 etc. and pattern inclinations.
• Sheet Size: Graepels perforate sheets in standard sizes. Please see the technical capabilities tab for a list of sizes available.
• Margins (unperforated/blank areas): Margins (unperforated areas) can be left on sheets.
• Finishes: a variety of finishes are available; however, some finishes are dependent on material type. Some materials can be left unfinished – in their natural state, for example CORTEN (weathering steel).
• Fabrication: General fabrication is offered for all our products for customers who do not fabricate themselves, we offer cutting, welding, folding, bending, and notching to list a few, for an extensive list please see the Services section of the Website under Fabrication.