This story is excerpted from “Four Benefits of ATM Surrounds,” a white paper available for free download after registration.
It's no secret that most consumers will judge the security and safety of an ATM by its outward appearance. Installing an ATM surround is a relatively inexpensive way to spruce up the appearance of an ATM when compared to the cost of replacement.
If an ATM looks beat-up or damaged in any way, it could potentially deter users even though the machine actually is secure. An operator may observe a decline in usage and income even though the machine is otherwise in working condition.
Common materials for ATM surrounds include vacuum-formed, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, fiberglass and laminate. When choosing an ATM surround, look for one that is durable and can withstand various situations with relation to placement and exposure to weather.
A well-made ATM surround should stand up to graffiti, cracking, paint fading and weather hazards, ultimately increasing the longevity and profitability of the machine, and saving an operator some money.
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ATM graffiti
In many parts of the country, particularly urban areas, graffiti remains a problem at the ATM since it is an easy target for street artists. A graffiti-covered ATM could deter usage by consumers, and also lessen the impact of the branding message.
Removing graffiti from an ATM can be a time-consuming, expensive process, which also can contribute to the wear and tear on the unit.
An ATM surround, such as Queensland, Australia-based ATM Power's high-grade polymer offering, can withstand the harsh chemicals necessary to remove graffiti. The company uses a vacuum thermoforming process in which plastic is heated to a pliable forming temperature and is then formed and trimmed to create a surround.
Protection from elements, pollutants
ATM surrounds need to be able to resist cracking in extreme temperatures. A cracked ATM surround could allow the elements, such as water or ice, to reach the ATM and damage it.
Weather damage such as warping and cracking due to snow, ice, humidity and rain can occur, and installing a rust and corrosion resistant surround can help protect the machine and extend its life if it is positioned in an area that makes it vulnerable to the elements.
North Salt Lake, Utah-based Companion Systems offers fiberglass composite surrounds which are rust and mold resistant.
Vacuum-formed surrounds are also useful in protecting ATMs against the elements because there are fewer seams to allow moisture infiltration. This feature can also assist in protecting the machine from dust and other airborne pollutants, as well as exhaust fumes and dust from vehicles in a drive-thru ATM scenario.
For more information on this topic, visit our enclosures/surrounds research center.
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