UFC 3-120-01
FEBRUARY 6 2003
12.4. Material Selection. Every project has individual requirements based on the project budget, the
location and architectural style of the base, and other factors. In addition, the availability and cost of
materials vary with location and over time. For this reason some flexibility is allowed in material
selection. Options for material selection are described in paragraphs 12.5 and 12.6, followed
immediately by detailed specifications.
12.5. Minimum Standards. These specifications represent the minimum standards for sign
materials and construction. Products which meet or exceed the performance of the materials
specified may be substituted as appropriate. The final material selection and fabrication decisions
should be based on the sign shop capabilities and the long term needs of each base.
12.6. Finishes.
12.6.1. Sign Panel Finish Options.
12.6.1.1. Baked Enamel. Factory-finished baked enamel provides the most durable and cost
effective finish available. Alkyd, acrylic, epoxy or urethane enamels may be used. Factory-
finished alkyd baked enamel is widely available.
12.6.1.2. Reflective Sheeting. Reflective sheeting provides good nighttime visibility, but is
susceptible to deterioration under conditions of intense heat exposure. Nighttime visibility
can also be achieved by mounting reflective graphics on a baked enamel sign panel.
12.6.1.3. Plastic, Cast Acrylic, Duralite or Polycarbonate Panels. Panels with an integral
finish may be used if a correct color match for all sign types is maintained. See paragraph
2.18 for the standard Air Force colors.
12.6.1.4. Vinyl Sheeting. Non-reflective vinyl sheeting may also be used as a sign panel
finish if a correct color match for all sign types is maintained. See paragraph 2.18 for the
standard Air Force colors.
12.6.2. Sign Post Finish Options.
12.6.2.1. Baked Enamels. Factory finished baked enamel is the most durable and cost
effective finish available.
12.6.2.2. Alkyd and Acrylic Enamels. Alkyd and acrylic enamels can be quickly touched up
in the field.
12.6.2.3. Epoxy or Urethane Enamels. Epoxy or urethane enamels, while more durable than
alkyd and acrylic enamels, are more difficult to touch up because of the short shelf-life of the
product. It is also difficult to obtain these products with the semi-gloss finish which is
specified for all Air Force signs.
12.6.2.4. Electrodeposition Process. This is a viable option.
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