The aluminum composite panel (ACM) is a material formed by two aluminum sheets joined by an internal core, known for its lightness, durability, versatility and variety of finishes. Alucobond is the pioneer brand and world reference thanks to its quality, innovation and technical performance.
What is Aluminum Composite Panel?
The aluminum composite panel, also called ACM (Aluminum Composite Material), is an architectural material composed of two external aluminum sheets joined by a central core that can be mineral, fireproof or polyethylene, depending on the type of panel.
It is widely used in ventilated facades, interior cladding, signage, corporate design and applications where an aesthetic, light and resistant material is required.
Composite Panel Composition
A typical composite panel consists of:
- Aluminum face layer (0.2-0.5 mm)
- Aluminum backing
- Inner core
- PE (polyethylene): standard version
- FR (Fire Retardant): fire -retardant mineral core
- A2: maximum fire resistance, almost entirely mineral
- Outer coating (PVDF, FEVE or powder coating) to ensure durability and UV resistance
This composition combines rigidity and lightness, making it possible to manufacture panels with excellent flatness even in large formats.
Brief History of Aluminum Composite Panels
The composite panel was born in the 1960s in Germany, developed by the company 3A Composites (then Alusuisse). This innovation introduced a material that combined the best of aluminum with the stability of a composite core.
Alucobond, the first composite panel on the market, was officially launched in 1969. Since then, this system has revolutionized the architectural design and sign industry, expanding to more than 100 countries.
Main Characteristics of Aluminum Composite Panel
1. Lightness
Thanks to its inner core, a composite panel is much lighter than a solid sheet of aluminum with the same stiffness.
➡️ Ideal for facade structures, signs and large surfaces.
2. Durability
- Excellent weather, UV and corrosion resistance
- Long service life even in coastal environments
- Minimal maintenance
Versatility
Can be bent, milled, bent or machined with common metalworking and woodworking tools.
Accommodates straight, cubic, curved and three-dimensional designs.
4. Wide range of finishes
One of its main attractions is the aesthetic variety available:
- Solid colors
- Metallic and anodized
- Wood, stone, brushed
- Mirror or deep matte finishes
- Special series such as Spectra or Effects
5. Rigidity with excellent flatness
Despite its light weight, it maintains exceptional flatness, even in large pieces.
6. Fire behavior
Available in different classifications:
- PE: general use
- FR: fire retardant
- A2: use in highly demanding buildings
Advantages of Composite Panel (Alucobond Advantages)
- Increased dimensional stability
- Superior bending strength
- Minimal maintenance
- Fast installation
- Availability in large formats
- High performance in ventilated facades
- Adaptability to corporate and architectural projects
Why is Alucobond the Referent Brand?
Alucobond, manufactured by 3A Composites, is considered the quality standard in the industry for key reasons:
Pioneers and world leaders
They were the original creators of the ACM and maintain global leadership.
Continuous innovation
They develop new finishes, improvements to the fireproof core and technical solutions for ventilated facades.
3. Certified quality
Its panels pass strict tests of resistance, durability and reaction to fire, complying with international standards.
4. Impeccable aesthetics
They are known for excellence in:
- Brightness
- Flatness
- Color consistency
- Premium finishes
5. Warranty and service life
They offer warranties of up to 20-30 years depending on the collection and coating.
6. Global presence
Availability on all continents and technical support for architects and builders.