Custom-designed perforated metal art
Graepel Percus enables the precise transfer of digital image data into high-quality perforated metal images. By carefully varying hole sizes and spacing, a technically defined grid is created that reproduces images, graphics, or logos with great detail on metal surfaces.
The process is based on common image formats (e.g., JPG), which are transformed into a perforated pattern using software. The combination of material, perforation geometry, and manufacturing strategy determines the visual quality and depth effect of the motif.
For architects and design professionals, Graepel Percus opens up new possibilities for combining functional components with design-oriented solutions. Perforated metal images are specifically used as design elements, façade solutions, or brand surfaces.
Applications
- Facade elements with functional and aesthetic integration
- Architectural projects for interior and exterior spaces
- Wall cladding and large-scale interior design
- Freestanding steles and architectural objects
- Retail design and brand presentation
- Vehicle design and technical applications
- Functional design surfaces in the food industry
Advantages and Features
- Facade elements with functional and aesthetic integration
- Architectural projects for interior and exterior spaces
- Wall cladding and large-scale interior design
- Freestanding steles and architectural objects
- Retail design and brand presentation
- Vehicle design and technical applications
- Functional design surfaces in the food industry
Material and Application Concept (Interior vs. Exterior)
The choice of material thickness depends on the application and affects both the structural integrity and the visual appearance:
Thin sheets (approx. 0.8–1.5 mm)
- Steel, aluminum, stainless steel
- Optimized for interiors and delicate applications
- Lightweight and high detail resolution
- Can also be used outdoors with a suitable coating
Thicker sheets (approx. 1–5 mm)
- Designed for facades and load-bearing design elements
- Greater stability for large-format applications
- Consideration of structural requirements within the project context
This differentiation is based on technical requirements as well as design objectives.
Benefits of working with Graepel
Graepel positions itself as a manufacturing partner for technically sophisticated and custom-designed perforated sheet metal solutions:
- Consulting on the feasibility of converting image data into perforated patterns
- Support in material- and manufacturing-appropriate design
- Low-warpage manufacturing through optimized punching sequences
- Industrial process reliability and reproducible quality
- Implementation ranging from individual projects to series solutions
- Integration into existing facade and building concepts
Technical Background – From Image to Perforated Sheet
The production of perforated metal art is based on the transformation of an image into a pattern of dots. In this process, brightness values are translated into hole sizes and hole densities.
Key influencing factors are:
- Hole diameter and hole distribution
- Resolution and quality of the image file
- Material properties and sheet thickness
- Manufacturing strategy to minimize warping
The result is a durable, low-maintenance design element with high visual impact for architecture and design.
FAQ
Graepel Percus is a specialized manufacturer of perforated metal art. The company produces custom designs on perforated metal in various materials and formats—for architecture, façade design, and decorative applications. Production involves the computer-aided conversion of image data into precise perforation patterns.
When creating a Graepel-Percus perforated-plate image, a digital image file is algorithmically converted into a two-dimensional perforation grid. Different hole sizes encode brightness values: large holes correspond to dark areas, while small holes correspond to light areas of the image. The interplay of all the perforations results in the visible image.
Graepel Percus processes the three most common industrial metals: steel (including coated versions), stainless steel (corrosion-resistant, suitable for outdoor applications), and aluminum (lightweight, also weather-resistant). All materials are available in various sheet thicknesses, which are selected based on the intended application.
Yes. Sheet thicknesses of up to 5 mm are used for facade cladding and large-scale exterior applications. This material thickness ensures the necessary structural stability and weather resistance. Graepel-Percus elements are therefore suitable for architectural design applications, privacy facades, and high-profile exterior surfaces.
Individual sheet metal elements can be manufactured up to a width of approximately 1,000 mm (1 meter). For designs that exceed this size, Graepel Percus uses a modular assembly principle: The overall design is divided into several individual elements, which are then precisely assembled into a large-format design.
The image quality of a Graepel-Percus perforated metal sheet image is defined by four interacting parameters: (1) Hole size – smaller holes allow for finer gray-scale gradations, (2) Hole density – the number of holes per unit area determines the level of detail, (3) Material – surface texture and reflectivity influence visual perception, (4) Source file – a high-resolution digital image is essential for a high-quality result.
