Prismatic Signs (RA2) — Special Material Guide
Internal · Updated July 2026
What this article covers
Prismatic (RA2) is a high-visibility reflective material used for signs that need to be clearly visible in low light when illuminated by a light source such as car headlights. It is a special order material — not available as a standard self-service option in Signomatic. A minimum order value of SEK 5,000 applies. All requests must be confirmed with production before quoting.
Minimum order value
The minimum order value for prismatic signs is SEK 5,000 on a single quote or order — not split across multiple deliveries. This reflects the separate production flow required. Do not quote below this threshold.
Prismatic vs standard reflective — key difference
| Type | Reflective class | Cost | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard reflective | Engineering grade — reflects light back towards the source | Lower | Fewer restrictions |
| Prismatic (RA2) | Higher class — stronger and more visible reflection, especially at distance | Significantly higher | Cannot be contour-cut — see below |
If a customer asks for "reflective" without specifying type, clarify whether they need standard reflective or prismatic. Standard reflective covers most use cases. Prismatic is typically used for traffic signs and safety signage where maximum visibility at distance is required.
Important — reflective is not glow-in-the-dark
Reflective and prismatic material only reflects light back towards a light source — it does not glow in the dark on its own. If a customer asks for a sign that glows without a light source, the answer is no — we do not offer glow-in-the-dark material. Always clarify this distinction when a customer uses the term "glowing" or "luminous."
When to recommend prismatic
Good fit when the customer needs:
- Maximum visibility at distance in low light or darkness when illuminated
- Traffic, road, or safety signage
- Signs that must meet higher reflective class standards
Not a good fit when the customer needs:
- A sign that glows without a light source → explain the distinction above
- A contour-cut sign in a custom shape → prismatic cannot be contour-cut, see limitations below
- A sign with a silver or aluminium-coloured background → the reflective effect will not be visible on metallic backgrounds. The sign must have a white or other light-coloured base.
- A lower-cost option → recommend standard reflective instead
- An order below SEK 5,000 → explain the minimum and offer an alternative
Key limitation — no contour-cut shapes
Prismatic (RA2) material cannot be used on contour-cut signs where the outer shape of the sign is cut after the prismatic laminate has been applied. The adhesion between the aluminium and the prismatic laminate risks breaking at the cut edges, causing the material to peel.
Standard rectangular and square prismatic signs are possible. If a customer requests a custom shape in prismatic material, the answer is no — recommend a rectangular sign instead, or standard reflective if a custom shape is essential.
Size limitations
| Maximum sheet size | 2500 × 1250 mm |
| Effective print area | 2000 × 1200 mm |
| Practical maximum height with laminate | 1150 mm — the laminate used is 1200 mm wide, and with margins the practical limit is 1200 × 1150 mm |
Large prismatic signs (e.g. 2440 × 1200 mm) are possible as special orders with manual pricing. Pole attachment on large signs must also be handled manually — this configuration cannot be set up in Signomatic.
Pricing
- Minimum order value: SEK 5,000 on a single quote or order — not split across deliveries.
- Always calculate manually — there is no fixed price per m² for prismatic in the standard flow. Use the reflective section in the quote template for prismatic material on aluminium.
- Recommended minimum margin: 40% — higher than the standard 30% minimum, because the material is expensive and the risk of low margin is high.
- Always add extra Prepress time when relevant — prismatic special orders typically require additional preparation.
- For large signs, calculate freight separately — large reflective signs are heavy and bulky.
- If the Quote Template should be used → use it for calculated price.
- Always explain to the customer why the price is higher.
Before quoting — mandatory
- Always confirm with production that the requested combination of material, shape, and fixing method is possible before quoting.
- For any non-rectangular shape → confirm with production explicitly before quoting.
- If any questions → write in CX Special Channel for internal support.
- If the need of two extra CX eyes → post the finalized quote in CX Special Channel.
Manufacturing
- Always add minimum +2 extra manufacturing days.
- Always add to Slack Special List.
When accepted
- Move to Special Flow and add comment under Prepress.
- Include an extra note if the customer expects the same design as a previous order.