Lucite International provides signage materials for Bangkok Metro

1 Mar 2004 Southampton, UK

As part of a large-scale expansion programme, The Bangkok Metropolitan Authority has selected Lucite International materials for directional signage in its underground transport system. The contract was awarded in July 2003 to Lucite International and our signage partner and installation began in December 2003. The newly extended Bangkok underground system is due to open in April 2004.

The Bangkok underground system serves a population of more than 10 million people. It was vital for the project managers, who selected Lucite International, that people were able to locate themselves and get directions in the quickest, most visible way possible while meeting the visual design criteria of the stations. Lucite International’s acrylic materials were selected because they meet both design standards for fire requirements and light management capabilities - both key for in directory signage.

Lucite International has had valuable experience in similar projects around the world, such as the Hong Kong and Bilbao Metro systems. There are very stringent engineering standards for equipment used in underground systems in the world following the King’s Cross fire in 1987. The devastating effect of the fire in the London Underground resulted in strict regulations governing the use of plastic products below ground level because of the potential smoke problems a fire may cause. Lucite® Perspex® acrylic sheet meets these standards, which was a crucial factor in its selection for Bangkok Metro’s signage contract.

Lucite® Light Management Solutions (LMS) technology is being used in the signage in Bangkok’s underground system. Panels made from an advanced acrylic are used to create ultra slim structures that provide cool even illumination. This results in increased clarity of the signs and improves visibility in polluted atmospheres, such as smoke.

Lucite LMS are being specified by some of the most influential architects and designers around the world, from directional signage in the Hong Kong Metro to advertising campaigns running on London and New York City transit systems. Because the light source is positioned at the edge of the panel rather than behind, it is possible to reduce display profiles dramatically to create lighter, slimmer constructions that are suitable for many more applications. LMS units are more energy efficient and therefore more cost effective.

Khun Suchitr, Managing Director of Thai Poly Acrylic, Lucite International’s Thai operation, comments on the success of the contract: “This is an excellent endorsement of Lucite International’s materials expertise. The unique combination of light management and fire retardant properties and our proven track record were critical for us to secure the contract. No other company has these combined strengths. We will be providing the highest quality materials available for the safest most visible directional signage in the industry.”

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