3D Box-Up Stainless Steel, EG Plate & Aluminium Signboard – Engineered for Coastal & High-Humidity Environments
Living near the coast or in Malaysia’s high-humidity regions is beautiful – until you see what salt-laden air and constant moisture do to ordinary signage. Standard aluminium oxidises (white rust). Mild steel rusts through within months. Even some stainless steels pit and discolour. At Pikoh Design, we’ve engineered a 3D box-up signboard specifically for corrosive environments, using marine-grade stainless steel faces, properly protected EG plate returns, and corrosion-proof aluminium back panels.
At Pikoh Design, based in Alor Setar, Kedah, we are a signboard manufacturer and installer serving businesses throughout the state – including Langkawi, Kuala Kedah, and other coastal areas. We specialise in corrosion-resistant 3D box-up signboards that combine 316 stainless steel (marine grade), zinc-protected EG plate, and aluminium in a system designed to withstand salt spray, humidity, and tropical downpours.
The Science of Corrosion Protection in Our Signboards
Each material in our hybrid signboard plays a specific role in fighting corrosion:
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Stainless steel faces (Grade 316): Contains 2–3% molybdenum, an element that resists pitting corrosion from chlorides (salt). This is the same alloy used on boat fittings and seaside architecture. The brushed finish also hides minor water spots.
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EG plate returns: Electro-galvanising applies a thin, uniform zinc coating to the steel. Zinc is sacrificial – it corrodes preferentially, protecting the underlying steel. We then add a powder-coated top layer (minimum 80 microns thickness) for additional barrier protection. In coastal applications, we recommend a two-coat system: epoxy primer plus polyester topcoat.
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Aluminium back panel: Aluminium naturally forms a passive oxide layer that stops further corrosion. Unlike steel, it does not rust. Even if the powder coating scratches, the aluminium underneath remains stable.
Additional Corrosion-Resistant Features
We don’t stop at material selection. Our fabrication process also matters:
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Welded seams are passivated (acid-treated) to remove heat tint and restore corrosion resistance.
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All fasteners are 316 stainless steel – no mixed metals that cause galvanic corrosion.
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Silicone seals between letters and back panel prevent moisture wicking.
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Drainage holes (tiny, hidden) allow any condensation to escape rather than pool inside letters.





