Installation Guide for Aluminum Composite Panels (ACPs)

Installing Aluminum Composite Panels (ACPs) requires precision and adherence to safety protocols. Below is a step-by-step guide for professional installation:

1. Pre-Installation Preparation

Tools & Materials:

ACP sheets (cut to required dimensions)

Aluminum/steel substructure (framing system)

Rivets (stainless steel or aluminum), screws, or adhesive

Silicone sealant (neutral cure for weatherproofing)

Measuring tape, level, drill, rivet gun, and cutting tools (CNC router or guillotine shears)

Surface Preparation:

Ensure the substrate (wall, frame) is clean, dry, and structurally sound. For exterior applications, install a waterproof membrane if required.

2. Framing Installation

Erect a lightweight aluminum or steel substructure with vertical/horizontal supports, spaced 40-60cm apart depending on panel thickness (3mm ACP: 40cm; 6mm ACP: 60cm).

Use a laser level to align frames perfectly. Anchor the structure to the substrate with expansion bolts.

3. Panel Cutting & Handling

Cutting:

Mark dimensions on the protective film.

Use a router with a carbide-tipped blade for clean edges. Avoid abrasive cutting to prevent delamination.

Bending:

For curved designs, groove the backside (1/3 depth) using a V-cutting machine, then bend manually to the desired angle.

4. Panel Fixation

Mechanical Fixing (Rivets/Screws):

Position the ACP panel onto the frame.

Drill pilot holes (2mm larger than fastener diameter to allow thermal expansion).

Secure with rivets/screws at 15-20cm intervals, starting from the center outward.

Note: For exterior use, install open-joint systems (3-5mm gaps) with hidden fixings for drainage.

Adhesive Bonding:

Apply structural silicone adhesive evenly on the substructure. Press the panel firmly and clamp for 24 hours.

5. Sealing & Finishing

Clean panel edges with isopropyl alcohol.

Apply silicone sealant (color-matched to ACP) into joints and fastener holes. Smooth with a spatula.

Remove protective film within 30 days to avoid adhesive residue.

6. Safety & Compliance

Wear PPE: gloves, goggles, and dust masks during cutting.

For fire-prone areas, use A2 or B1 fire-rated ACPs with mineral cores.

Follow local building codes for wind load and seismic requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening fasteners (causes panel warping).

Ignoring thermal expansion gaps (leads to buckling).

Using acidic sealants (corrodes aluminum).

By following these guidelines, ACP installations achieve durability (20+ years), aesthetics, and compliance with international standards like ASTM and EN 13501-1.