Engraved Electrical Panel Traffolyte Labels
Traffolyte (also spelled Traffolite) is a multi-layered composite sheet material made from phenol-formaldehyde resins. When machine-engraved, the contrasting coloured layers allow lettering and symbols to stand out clearly. Because of its electrical non-conductivity and heat-resistant properties, Traffolyte is ideal for use both inside and outside electrical cabinets and enclosures.
Short history
Traffolyte dates back to 1927, when it was first manufactured for engraved transformer labels. It quickly became a cost-effective solution for industrial labelling. Over time the term “Traffolyte” has become genericised and is commonly used to describe similar multi-layer engraved label materials.
How Traffolyte engraving works
Traditional Traffolyte sheets are manufactured with contrasting coloured layers — for example, a thin white top layer over a black underlayer. The engraving tool passes through the top layer to reveal the contrasting layer beneath, creating crisp text and symbols.
Engraving methods have evolved:
- Pantographs — the original engraving machines.
- CNC routing tables with floating heads — the swivel nosecone follows contours and adjusts cutting depth so the tool cleanly passes through the top layer to reveal the layer beneath.
- CO₂ laser engraving — produces a similar engraved effect without the bevelling produced by a mechanical cutting tool (and reduces particulate issues).
Important safety note: phenolic dust produced during mechanical routing of Traffolyte is now recognised as a health hazard. Proper extraction, filtration and PPE should be used when routing or engraving traditional phenolic materials.
Benefits & properties
- Scratch resistant and UV stable.
- Withstands adverse weather and industrial environments.
- Available in a wide range of colours and thicknesses — from thin 0.2 mm two-colour sheets up to 3 mm three-ply configurations.
- Can be manufactured in a variety of shapes, including irregular shapes (vector files such as DXF or AI are ideal for production).
Typical applications
Traffolyte and similar engraved labels are widely used for:
- Caution and warning labels
- Compliance and control panel plates
- Electrical and switchboard identification labels
- Indicator light and push‑button labels
- Operator instruction plates and selector switch labels
- Key tags and mining equipment labels
Mounting methods
Historically, early Traffolyte was stiff and brittle and required flat mounting surfaces with mechanical fasteners (M3/M4 screws). Modern materials can be more flexible, allowing curved or irregular mounting.
Common mounting methods include:
- Plastic plugs, rivets or screws — preferred for permanent installations inside switchboards where heat and vibration are present.
- Double-sided tape — not recommended for internal switchboard applications where heat can cause adhesive failure over time.
Custom options & production
Engraved labels can be produced in custom sizes, shapes and colour combinations. They can be routed or laser-engraved depending on the finish required and health/safety considerations. Vector artwork files (DXF, AI, EPS) are preferred for accurate cutting of irregular shapes; hand-drawn or scanned artwork can often be vectorised prior to production.
About Koalabel
Koalabel has supplied labels and identification solutions across Australia and New Zealand for over 15 years. We offer engraved panel labels and alternative multi-layer materials suitable for electrical panels, control rooms and industrial applications. If you require bespoke engraved labels, custom shapes or bulk quantities, we can help.
Enquiries: please use our contact or enquiry form on the Koalabel website to request a quote or to submit artwork for a customised quotation.