Metal Construction Association Announces Formation Of MCM Alliance

Chicago, IL – The Metal Construction Association has created a new group focused on increasing awareness of Metal Composite Material (MCM) for the architectural building envelope. The MCM Alliance supports product performance testing, initiates research, and promotes education and actions to influence public policies for the utilization and growth of MCM in the marketplace.

Introduced more than 40 years ago as aluminum composite materials (ACM), this product category has evolved to metal composite material (MCM), reflecting the inclusion of natural metal skins such as zinc, copper, stainless steel and titanium. Because it can be painted nearly any color, aluminum is still the predominant MCM skin material.

MCM is formed by joining two thin metal skins to a polyethylene or fire-retardant core and then bonded under a precise temperature, pressure and tension. This unique process makes MCM lighter and more versatile and flexible than a solid metal of similar thickness. The MCM Alliance includes technical and marketing committees which include 6 MCA member companies that manufacture MCM and 11 fabricators that engineer and fabricate MCM.

"MCM has transformed modern architecture," says MCM Alliance Director Jeff Irwin. "Building owners and architects wanting to make a design statement can look to the current generation of MCM for a wide range of interior and exterior options. This is the ultimate goal of the MCM Alliance."

About The Metal Construction Association

Founded in 1983, MCA represents over 100 member companies that manufacture and distribute products for the metal construction industry. The association’s mission is to promote the use of metal in the building envelope. Member volunteers collaborate on projects to educate contractors and architects about best practices for metal design and installation, while also ensuring compliance with evolving building codes and standards that support safety, sustainability, and performance. Companies involved in MCA benefit greatly from activities focused on research, codes and standards, market development, and technical programs. For more information, visit www.metalconstruction.org.