High Stiffness, Controlled Weight
Honeycomb construction increases panel depth and rigidity without relying on a thick solid stainless steel plate, helping balance large-panel stiffness with manageable weight.
ARCHITECTURAL STAINLESS STEEL SYSTEMS
Stainless Steel Honeycomb Panels for Facades & Ceilings
Custom honeycomb-backed panels for facades, ceilings and soffits.
304 or 316 stainless steel faces, engineered with lightweight aluminium honeycomb cores for larger, flatter architectural surfaces.
- 304 / 316 Stainless Steel
- 0.8–1.5 mm Face Sheet
- Custom Finish & Panel Engineering
WHY HONEYCOMB-BACKED STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless Steel on the Surface. Engineered Efficiency Behind It.
Architectural panels need to do more than look good. Weight, flatness, fabrication, installation and long-term durability all influence how a material performs once it becomes part of the building.
By combining a 304 or 316 stainless steel face with a lightweight aluminium honeycomb core, Xinmao retains the depth and metallic character of stainless steel while creating a more efficient construction for large architectural panels.
Stable Large-Format Surfaces
Continuous core support, a backing sheet and reinforced panel edges help control distortion and improve the visual flatness of large stainless steel surfaces.
Greater Design Freedom
Brushed, mirror, textured, etched and PVD-coloured stainless steel can be developed into large facade, ceiling and soffit panels without losing the material's distinctive metallic character.
More Work Completed in the Factory
Panel dimensions, edges, openings, corners and fixing interfaces can be coordinated before production, reducing unnecessary cutting and finish work on site.
Built for Long-Term Architectural Use
Correctly selected 304 or 316 stainless steel provides durable, corrosion-resistant architectural surfaces with finish and grade options suited to different project environments.
STAINLESS STEEL SURFACES
Surface Options and Finish Control
Xinmao primarily uses 304 and 316 stainless steel facing sheets in 0.8–1.5 mm thickness. Surface finish is normally processed before assembly, not applied as a decorative coating over the completed panel.
Finish, PVD colour, grain direction, panel sequence, orientation and visible joints are coordinated before fabrication. Opposite orientations can appear different under natural or artificial light even when the material is similar. Directional finishes are marked and protected during cutting, forming, bonding and handling.
01
Brushed stainless steel
SurfaceControlled linear texture.
Typical applicationContinuous walls and ceilings.
Selection considerationsCoordinate brushing direction across adjoining panels.
02
Mirror-polished stainless steel
SurfaceReflective surface with visual depth.
Typical applicationEntrances, feature walls and interior applications.
Selection considerationsCoordinate panel orientation and adjacent reflections.
03
Textured stainless steel
SurfaceSurface relief changes the appearance under changing light.
Typical applicationLarge decorative metal surfaces.
Selection considerationsCoordinate texture direction and adjoining-panel alignment.
04
PVD-coloured stainless steel
SurfaceChampagne, bronze, gold, black and project-specific finishes.
Typical applicationColoured architectural stainless steel surfaces.
Selection considerationsPre-coloured sheets can be considered where budget control is a priority. The finish and processing route should be selected against project samples for colour, reflection and consistency.
SYSTEM BUILD-UP
Stainless Steel Honeycomb Panel Build-Up
The stainless steel face is the architectural surface. The concealed aluminium honeycomb core provides structural depth between the front and rear skins without requiring a thick solid stainless steel plate.
Decorative stainless steel finish
Brushed, mirror-polished, textured or PVD-coloured stainless steel. The visible surface is normally processed before final assembly and protected during cutting, forming, bonding and handling.
304 / 316 stainless steel face
Facing thickness: 0.8–1.5 mm. 304 is commonly used for interior and general architectural applications. 316 can be considered for coastal, humid or higher-corrosion exposure conditions.
Structural bonding layer
Structural adhesive bonds the prepared facing, aluminium honeycomb core and backing sheet into a composite panel. The bonding requirements determine the pressing process.
Concealed aluminium honeycomb core
Core depths: 10 / 12 / 15 / 18 / 20 mm, with custom thickness available where required. The core is structural, not the decorative surface.
Stainless steel or aluminium backing
Backing thickness: 0.8–1.5 mm. Material selection follows the project specification, weight requirements and fabrication approach.
Closed and reinforced perimeter
Folded stainless steel returns, perimeter close-outs or local reinforcement protect the core and create stable handling and installation interfaces. Fixing loads should not be transferred through the thin decorative face alone.
APPLICATION
Facade, Soffit and Interior Applications
Panel construction and installation details are coordinated for each application. The finish, panel layout and supporting system are considered together.
01
Stainless steel facades
System roleStainless steel facing bonded to a concealed aluminium honeycomb core and backing, with closed returns and reinforced fixing interfaces.
Typical useExterior elevations, entrances and large architectural feature surfaces.
Design focusPanel subdivision, outside corners, open or sealed joints, supporting subframe interfaces and movement.
02
Ceilings and soffits
System roleClosed-edge composite panels coordinated with the ceiling contractor's carrier, hook-on or suspension system.
Typical useLobbies, entrances, external soffits and continuous ceiling surfaces.
Design focusReflected ceiling plans, common datums, finish direction, MEP openings, removable modules and perimeter conditions.
03
Interior feature surfaces
System role304 or 316 stainless steel facing with brushed, mirror, textured or PVD finishes selected before assembly.
Typical useFeature walls, commercial interiors and large decorative metal surfaces.
Design focusReflection, grain direction, adjacent-panel orientation, joint alignment, surface protection and handling.
MATERIALS & PRODUCTION
Panel Materials and Manufacturing Parameters
Material grades and thicknesses below are typical configuration options, subject to project confirmation. Press length and pressing duration describe manufacturing equipment and process stages. Edge construction and fixing reinforcement are developed for the panel geometry and installation interfaces.
Material | Stainless steel facing grades
304 is commonly used for interiors and general architectural applications. 316 can be considered for coastal, humid and higher-corrosion environments. Grade selection follows project exposure and material requirements.
Material | Decorative face-sheet thickness
The stainless steel face provides the visible finish. Facing thickness is reviewed with panel size, core depth, backing, edges and fixing conditions rather than selected in isolation.
Material | Aluminium honeycomb core depth
These are typical core-depth options; custom thickness is available where required. Separating the metal skins increases structural depth while limiting unnecessary weight.
Material | Backing-sheet thickness
Backing sheets are available in stainless steel or aluminium, typically 0.8–1.5 mm thick. Aluminium is an option where weight and cost control matter. Stainless steel backing can be specified where required by the project material schedule. Both options retain a concealed aluminium honeycomb core.
Production | Large-format pressing equipment
Xinmao operates a 10-metre honeycomb panel press for long architectural panels. This describes the equipment length, not a guaranteed maximum finished-panel length. Feasible panel dimensions depend on the construction, finish, edge details and handling requirements.
Production | Typical time under pressure
A typical assembly remains under pressure for approximately 4–5 hours, depending on panel construction and bonding requirements. This is the pressing-stage duration, not a statement of full adhesive cure time or production lead time.
Controlled pressing maintains contact between the facing, core, backing sheet and perimeter during bonding.
Project detail | Perimeter construction
Honeycomb is not left exposed at panel edges. Folded returns, close-outs and local reinforcement protect the core at visible edges, joints and fixing areas.
Project detail | Fixing-load transfer
Bracket and hanging interfaces are coordinated with reinforced edges or local zones. The supporting structure and structural anchors require the facade engineer's and installation contractor's review.
Core depth is not total panel thickness. Material options and production information are not tested wind-load, fire, bond-strength or durability ratings. Required performance must be established for the specified panel construction and project conditions.
ENGINEERING
Panel Details and Specification Questions
Shop drawings connect the visible stainless steel surface to its installation details. Panel geometry, joint lines, service openings and supporting interfaces are resolved before fabrication.
01Outside corners
At large 90° external corners, two independently fabricated panels can meet at a controlled shadow joint. Each panel has its own return and reinforced fixing interface, allowing the two elevations to be adjusted independently.
A separately formed stainless steel corner element can move the joint away from the visible apex. One-piece corners may be evaluated for suitable sizes and geometries, subject to fabrication method, finish and project review.
02Open panel joints
Returned stainless steel edges form a recessed line between independently supported panels. The joint is coordinated with the facade cavity and weather-management strategy behind the decorative surface. Independent panels allow installation adjustment and replacement.
03Sealed panel joints
Where a closed joint is required, returns are coordinated with a designed movement gap, compatible backing material and architectural sealant. Joint dimensions are based on panel size, installation tolerance and anticipated movement, not appearance alone.
04Facade subframe and hanging interfaces
Panel interfaces with subframes, brackets, angle cleats and hanging components can be developed during shop drawing coordination. Fixing zones are reinforced rather than relying on the decorative face sheet.
Fixed and sliding connection concepts may be coordinated to accommodate anticipated thermal movement, subject to project engineering. Final structural design, framing and anchors are subject to the facade engineer, project requirements and installation contractor.
05Ceiling layout and finish direction
Panels are developed around the reflected ceiling plan. Common datums establish panel sizes and joint lines; drawings identify panel IDs, joint centrelines, finish direction and adjoining architectural elements.
Directional finishes and reflections make inconsistent orientation visible. Brushed, textured and PVD-coloured panels are identified during fabrication for consistent installation.
06Lighting and MEP openings
Lighting, diffusers, sprinklers and access requirements should be coordinated before fabrication. Openings are incorporated in the panel drawing rather than cut randomly on site. Interrupted honeycomb edges can be closed or locally reinforced.
07Removable ceiling modules
Selected panels can be coordinated with the contractor's hook-on, carrier or suspension system for downward removal and maintenance access. Edge construction and interfaces are developed so equipment can be reached without dismantling the entire surface.
08Ceiling perimeter conditions
At walls, columns and other boundaries, panels can terminate into concealed trims or designed shadow gaps. Each fabricated panel receives a closed edge; perimeter support is coordinated with the ceiling installation system.
Xinmao can develop panel layout and installation drawings around the proposed supporting system but does not normally supply primary suspension or structural hangers.
09Are these stainless steel panels or aluminium panels?
The visible architectural face is 304 or 316 stainless steel. The aluminium honeycomb core is concealed inside the panel and supports the composite construction. The backing sheet can be stainless steel or aluminium, as specified. A stainless steel backing does not change the aluminium core material.
010Is honeycomb core depth the same as total panel thickness?
No. Core depth refers to the aluminium honeycomb layer. Total panel thickness also includes the face sheet, bonding layers and backing sheet. Typical core options are 10 / 12 / 15 / 18 / 20 mm; face and backing sheets are typically 0.8–1.5 mm each. The final total build-up is confirmed in the project drawings and specification.
011Can stainless steel honeycomb panels be used for facades and ceilings?
Xinmao fabricates panels for both applications. Facade details coordinate panel returns, joints and subframe interfaces. Ceiling and soffit details coordinate the reflected ceiling layout, service openings, removable modules and perimeter conditions. Panel construction and installation interfaces are reviewed for the specific application.
012How is finish direction controlled across adjacent panels?
Finish direction, panel sequence and orientation are coordinated in the shop drawings. Directional surfaces are identified during fabrication so adjoining panels can be installed consistently. Brushed, textured and PVD-coloured surfaces can appear different under light when panel orientation changes.
Joint dimensions follow panel size, installation tolerances and anticipated movement. The supporting framework, structural anchors and primary ceiling suspension remain subject to project engineering and contractor coordination.
FACTORY CONTROL
From Architectural Drawings to Finished Panels
Production follows the approved panel layout and finish requirements. The stainless steel surface is processed and protected before the composite assembly is completed.
01 | Review project information
Review architectural elevations, reflected ceiling plans, dimensions, finish requirements and design intent. Confirm application and available installation information.
02 | Develop and approve drawings
Coordinate panel subdivision, finish direction, sequence, corners, edge construction, joint locations and installation interfaces. Obtain shop drawing approval before fabrication.
03 | Process and protect the surface
Select and process the stainless steel finish before final assembly. Mark directional finishes and protect the visible face during subsequent operations.
04 | Prepare sheets and edges
Cut and form the face and backing sheets. Prepare returns, perimeter close-outs, service openings and local reinforcement to the approved drawings.
05 | Bond and cold press
Apply structural adhesive and position the aluminium honeycomb core between the prepared face and backing sheets. The assembly is cold pressed for approximately 4–5 hours, depending on its construction and bonding requirements. Pressing time is one stage of production.
06 | Inspect before delivery
Check dimensions, finish, orientation and general appearance against approved fabrication information. Maintain protection during handling and delivery.
Cold-pressing duration depends on panel construction and bonding requirements. Panels are checked against approved fabrication information before delivery.
START A PROJECT
DISCUSS YOUR STAINLESS STEEL PANEL PROJECT
Send architectural elevations or reflected ceiling plans, panel dimensions, finish references and the project location. Xinmao Metal can review the panel construction and fabrication interfaces before production.