Lamacoid Builder

A lamacoid is a rigid plastic engraved tag used for identifying electrical panels, breakers, disconnects, and other equipment. They are typically made from two-ply or three-ply phenolic or acrylic plastic and are engraved with a rotary or laser engraver to reveal a contrasting color beneath the surface layer.

Standard electrical lamacoids are typically 3 inches wide by 1 inch tall with a text height of 3/16 inch (approximately 0.19 inches). However, sizes can vary depending on the application and the amount of text required. The NEC (National Electrical Code in USA) and CEC (Canadian Electrical Code in Canada) require legible and durable identification but do not mandate a specific tag size.

Yes. (USA) NEC Article 408.4 and (Canada) CEC 2-100 requires that panelboards be durably marked by the manufacturer and that circuit directories identify all circuits. While the code does not specifically mandate lamacoid tags, they are the industry-standard method for meeting the durable and legible identification requirements.

There is no single mandated color scheme, but common industry conventions include: black with white engraving for general panel identification, red for fire alarm and emergency systems, blue for temporary or provisional circuits, orange for high-voltage warnings, and white or yellow for safety-related labeling. Always check with your local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) for specific requirements.

Lamacoid tags can be mounted using self-adhesive backing, screws through pre-drilled holes, rivets, or cable ties. For permanent installations, screws or rivets are preferred as adhesive may fail over time due to heat, dust, or vibration in electrical environments. This tool supports both adhesive (no holes) and screw-mount (side holes) configurations.

This tool is designed to help you visualize and plan your lamacoid layout at exact 1:1 scale. The printed output serves as a reference or cutting template. For production lamacoids, the engraving should be done by a professional sign shop or with a rotary/laser engraver on proper two-ply phenolic plastic stock. Paper printouts are not suitable for permanent electrical identification.