A Tough Paper Product For Internal Graphics
I’m always on the lookout for unique products that can be used to complete jobs in a different way or provide a different purpose.
When we sat down with 3A Composites and looked at their new DISPA® board, we immediately spotted a display board with a few unique differences compared to the substrates we already carry on the shelf.
I’m seeing more eco-friendly, environmentally friendly and recyclable products come through our door. With the growing focus on getting away from plastics, we’re all for using them wherever we can.
Made from 100% FSC certified paper DISPA looks like its got first-rate recyclable credentials.
For info, FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council. It’s an organisation that started in 1993 to promote the use and management of the world’s forests. Approval by the FSC means the wood used in its construction has been sourced responsibly and the forests where the timber originally came from are being renewed.
It’s not just your sign and display products that can show the FSC logo – look around the next time you’re at the DIY store and you’ll see it on wallpaper, flooring, conservatories, doors and furniture. If it’s made from wood, it should have the label on it somewhere.
By using paper stock for the complete product, DISPA stays lightweight and manageable even in the bigger sheet sizes. As a ’built-up’ sheet with a number of layers utilising the same paper for the core, 3A Composites claims DISPA will stay rigid, stable and flat through production and in final use.
3A Composites calls the core of the material a ‘unique structure of embossed formed paper.’
I think of it almost as a cardboard Correx. All the paper ‘waves’ or flutes in the middle of the media giving it this strength and durability.
Being constructed completely from paper, it’s an internal product only and can be susceptible to the issues of being dinked on the edges. It’s the same possible damage as with any other softer substrate if mishandled. Just be careful when it’s in the print room and during installation.
Specifications and using DISPA Board
Thickness wise, DISPA board is only available at 3.8mm. Thick enough to keep warp-free and steady for hanging signs, POS units and displays.
As a board, its ideal for short term and lightweight promotional campaigns. But if you’re looking for something more substantial, check the alternatives we list further down.
Sheet sizes off the shelf should cover most jobs. From 1250x1840mm to slightly oversize 8×4 and 10×5. When creating complex point of sale display units that need CNC cutting and folding and we need to get it all on one sheet, we’re covered.
One of the big plus points of DISPA comes from its bright white, smooth paper faces. If you print using flatbed UV curable inks, printing DISPA board should cause no issues.
Double-sided hanging signs or point of sale cards become simple to produce when your board stays flat on the print bed and both sides have exactly the same properties.
As with DISPA board printing, the processing afterwards should be equally as stress-free.
Unlike plastics and metal substrates, paper materials can be converted using either manual tools or on the cutting tables. The only issue I can see is that the edges could crush if guillotined. Its the same with Correx or foam centred boards. Check pressures if it is an issue or look at converting using different kit if possible. It CNC cuts with little effort by using standard knives and settings.
Alternatives to DISPA board
Alternatives to DISPA include standard display board or display card. Also, these usually max out at around 2500mic thick.
They also don’t have the internal structure of DISPA with the laminated faces and built up embossed paper. For something like hanging signs though, they may be a viable alternative.
Dufaylite, Xanita board or Reboard are other options depending on the final application. Usually, a bit thicker, this honeycomb centred media (not quite like an Aero bar) is always popular as the substrate behind free-standing display units. It is strong, prints well and easy to cut and convert.
Foam centred boards like FOAM-X or KAPA are also popular for internal POS and hanging signs. Lightweight, strong and made from a sandwich of paper plus polyurethane. Foam core boards work well but most are not recyclable. DISPA, card and other 100% paper alternatives can also come in at a lower cost.
If you’re looking for more technical info on DISPA board, there are links here to the manufacturer 3A Composites’ website along with UK suppliers Antalis, PPB and Amari.
We’re putting together a Substrates 101 guide to the different media options within the sign and print spectrum – have a read through our details on Dibond printing or our post on Correx printing here.
