The graphic layer of the membrane switch should not only be aesthetically pleasing, it must endure use in its environment . Since environments vary greatly, the proper faceplate materials must be chosen. Xymox has a variety of materials fully tested and categorized for almost any environment.
In most cases the faceplate for a membrane switch is printed on a polyester or polycarbonate material. Polyester is more resistant to chemicals found in industrial settings and is better suited for use with tactile feedback switches because it can withstand a greater number of activations. Polycarbonate is optically clear at any thickness and provides a crisper emboss.
Following is a description of the materials available and below is a table comparing each. For further information please call Xymox.
- Hardcoat Polyester a smooth, clear plastic with excellent solvent resistance and life cyclability.
- X9214 on Hardcoat Polyester a surface printed Xymox finish that is used on hardcoat polyester. Has high solvent and scratch resistance and provides a velvet textured finish.
- Autotex® a textured polyester film produced by Autotype®. Consist of a base polyester and a flexible chemically bonded UV cured textured coating.
- Autotex® UV a textured polyester film produced by Autotype. Consists of a base polyester and a flexible chemically bonded UV cured textured coating. The coating is chemically modified to improve its UV resistance.
- Velvet Polycarbonate a textured polycarbonate with a highly durable surface.
- Hardcoat Polycarbonate a shiny polycarbonate with surface hardcoat. Typically used in appliance applications due to its shiny finish.
| POLYESTERS | POLYCARBONATES | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardcoat Polyester | X9214 on Polyester | Autotex | Autotex UV | Velvet | Hardcoat | ||
| Resistance to Industrial Chemicals (Acids, Bases, Solvents) |
Good | Good | Good | Good | Poor | Fair | |
| Resistance to House-Hold Cleaners and Chemicals |
Good | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Good | |
| Outdoor Use (Sunlight Resistance) | Poor | Poor | Poor | Good | Poor | Poor | |
| Optical Clarity | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | |
| Embossability | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good* | Good* | |
| Able to Print Selective Surface Texture |
Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A | N/A | Yes | |
| Typical Thickness Available | .005" .007" .010" |
.005" .007" .010" |
.006" .008" |
.006" .008" |
.005" .007" .010" .015" |
.010" .015" .020" .030" |
|
* Please note that polycarbonate overlay materials are not suggested for tactile constructions due to cracking related to life cycling.
