Adhesives are critical part of membrane keypads, keyboards & switches. Adhesives contribute greatly in the success of a keypad. It would not be incorrect to quote that it is the adhesive which holds the entire membrane keypad into one.
In this article, we would discuss about two critical parts of membrane keypad:
1. The Spacer
2. Mounting Adhesive
These layers are not as well-known as the PCB and graphic overlay, but they are crucial to creating an easy-to-use electronic control panel.
Additionally, both components require adhesive so material selection is crucial for durability and performance. Linepro recommends and utilizes 3M products as raw material for manufacturing membrane keypads, keyboards and switches.
WHY LINEPRO PREFER USING 3M MEMBRANE KEYPAD PRODUCTS
Basically, membrane keypads are made of 6 layers. It is not an easy task to prepare and maintain each layer thinner, precise, rugged and durable. 3M has created a line of products through years of innovation and testing.
There are many adhesive products that can be used to meet the needs of membrane keypads. These materials are flexible in design, have impressive shear strength and durability and come in a variety of thicknesses.
MEMBRANE KEYPAD SPACERS
The membrane keypads spacer layer plays multiple roles and is therefore very important. The spacer is laser-cut to fit the buttons, indicator lights or even backlighting. These openings prevent buttons from sticking to the surface when they are pressed down by a keypad user. The spacer should also be strong and durable, and can withstand harsh environments.
Read about Linepro’s membrane keypad technologies for harsh working conditions.
3M has a range of tapes that are specifically made for membrane keypad spacers. These tapes are suitable for many types of membrane keypads including indoor and outdoor, such as appliances, consumer electronics and industrial machinery.
The following are some of the benefits of membrane keypad tape from 3M:
- For maximum switch actuation lifetime, high shear strength is required
- Excellent resistance to chemicals like cleaners, detergents and solvents
- Extreme weather tolerance
- Enhanced backlighting
3M tapes simplify and make membrane keypad manufacturing and production more reliable. 3M’s acrylic adhesive, which is ooze-resistant reduces manufacturing time and the chance of warping, lifting or buckling.
MOUNTING ADHESIVE FOR MEMBRANE KEYPADS
After the membrane keypad has been constructed, it must be attached to the device or user interface. Typically, the mounting is done using adhesive transfer tape.
This tape is made with a thin adhesive layer and a release liner (no carrier). The adhesive side of the keypad is attached to its back. The keypad is mounted by removing the liner. Once the adhesive is exposed, it is placed at the location you want for bonding. The use of transfer tapes makes assembly much easier and is great at adapting to irregular surfaces.
ADHESIVE PARTNER FOR MEMBRANE KEYPADS
Linepro believes that every layer should be considered when designing a custom membrane keypad. Our materials expertise will help you choose the best adhesive products depending on factors such as substrates, environmental conditions, etc. We are a 3M material consumer for membrane keypads, which means we have the best converting skills using the most advanced materials available in the industry.
EVER READY TO GUIDE YOU ON MEMBRANE KEYPADS
Linepro has over 30 years manufacturing experience and works closely with product teams to solve problems, create products, enhance lives, and increase productivity.
For any assistance and consultation on membrane keypads, share your project details. We provide application specific customized solution for membrane keypads using best material available in industry, skilled designing team and advanced manufacturing setup.
