Compression molded vs. milled (CNC) signs

Milling cuts material away. Thermoforming forms it up.

CNC milling cuts raised characters from a flat substrate — the router removes material around each character to leave it standing. The result looks similar to thermoformed at a glance. The construction is fundamentally different.

Compression Molded (CMA)

Characters formed up from the acrylic — integral, no cut edges
Smooth domed profile on raised characters and braille
No sharp edges from routing — consistent tactile feel
Lifetime warranty
Full product range including 2nd surface print and embed

Milled (CNC) signs

Characters created by removing material — cut edges, not formed edges
Sharp routed profile on characters — different tactile feel
Material removal creates stress points at character bases
Warranty terms vary; process limitations affect durability claims
Color and finish options limited by substrate and routing

Milled signs are a legitimate product. They are not a thermoformed sign. Architects who specify thermoforming and receive milled product have received a substitution — and the substitution is not equivalent. The spec language in the CSI three-part specification prevents this.

Feel the difference — request a sample Back to Why Compression Molded