The Star Mechanical project in Edmonton featured white LED flexibright rope, to mimic a similar look to neon.
Star Mechanical, Edmonton
Another sign our team was privileged to be recognized for was the fascia sign for Star Mechanical in Edmonton. It was awarded “Best of Show” in Signs of the Times’ 2021 international sign competition.
While not an overly large sign, the thought and diligence put into the multitude of depths, sign types, and illumination methods made it a true “star” of the industry. Our team fabricated the face-illuminated channel letters out of various depths, which housed white LED modules. This took precision and extra testing to ensure the different depths illuminated properly with the respective quantity and spacing of LEDs installed into the sign. The “starburst” section features white flexibright rope lighting, which mimics the look of neon.
Similar to the incorporation of the marquis-style Edison bulbs into the “Banquet” sign, the inclusion of the white LED flexibright rope acts as a tip of the hat to the illumination methods of the past. Rather than the high voltage, high power consumption, and relatively higher upfront fabrication costs of neon, this very similar look was achieved using a low-voltage, low-power-consuming, more cost-effective rope LED product which satisfies the look the brand deserves and at an overall reduced cost compared to what neon might have offered.
The simplicity of the final product, paired with the technical preparation required in production for the sign to illuminate brightly and consistently—despite the variable depths and illumination methods—has this sign on our list of favourites.
Moving forward
These two projects represent just the tip of the iceberg with respect to what is possible when using LEDs in signage. However, they clearly highlight how advancements in LED technology can be of substantial benefit to the customer and their wallet, while still incorporating aspects of similar design and fabrication techniques from the past.
Further, while we are eager to see where advancements in technology take these products next, it is always important to ensure that when fabricating, purchasing, and installing electrified signage in Canada, the LEDs—along with their corresponding power supplies and electrical components—meet or exceed the certification requirements of the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC). Certified LED and electrical products are some of the best materials for sign shops to create dynamic and cost-effective projects that get noticed, and in turn, benefit the client, the company, and the skyline.
Matthew Pennycook is the president and co-owner of City Image Signs in Edmonton. He currently sits on the board of directors for the Alberta Sign Association (ASA) in the capacity of vice-president and is a director for the non-profit organization Active Communities Alberta.
