Understanding the Polyurethane Rubber Keypad Protective Overcoat：
Polyurethane serves as a protective layer covering the entirety of a rubber keypad, delivering wear resistance in high-usage scenarios. In some instances, it can enhance the abrasion resistance of graphics by up to 20 times. The application of a polyurethane protective overcoat reinforces the durability of rubber keypads, making them robust and long-lasting. This coating safeguards rubber keypads from oils, dirt, and contaminants, contributing to their resilience. The polyurethane coating can be applied with a glossy or matte finish to align with the keypad’s aesthetic requirements, without compromising or damaging the underlying printing. Particularly suitable for applications demanding higher abrasion resistance or a plastic feel, a polyurethane protective overcoat is commonly employed in automotive and point-of-sale handheld devices.
Advantages of Employing a Polyurethane Protective Overcoat for Rubber Keypads：
Keypad coatings, such as polyurethane overcoats, serve as essential protection for electronic devices, ensuring both tactile functionality and prolonged keypad lifespan through enhanced wear resistance. On average, the incorporation of a polyurethane overcoat can extend the durability of a rubber keypad by up to four times. This protective layer plays a crucial role in safeguarding rubber keypads against dust accumulation and maintaining consistent tactile response even after extended usage. Notably, polyurethane overcoats provide defense against chemicals, moisture, scratches, and common wear and tear, preserving the integrity of both molded colors and printed text on the keypad.
Key Benefits of a Polyurethane Rubber Keypad Protective Overcoat:
– Full surface coverage (100% top coating)
– Wear resistance tailored for high-use scenarios
– Exceptional wear resistance in standard applications
– Transparent coating for aesthetic clarity
– High flexibility, maintaining the elasticity of the rubber keypad
– Strong adhesion properties to ensure a secure bond with the keypad surface
– Easily cleanable surface
– Abrasion resistance for prolonged durability
– Resistance against organic solvents
– Offers a favorable performance-to-cost ratio
– Provides a moisture-resistant solution for laser-etched and screen-printed rubber keypads
It is crucial to emphasize that the application of a polyurethane rubber keypad protective overcoat is essential for preserving printed text and colors on the keypad, preventing wear and ensuring sustained functionality over time. The clear and seamless layer of polyurethane serves as a protective barrier over screen printing and keys.
Industries Benefiting from Polyurethane Protected Rubber Keypads:
The application of polyurethane rubber keypad protective overcoats is particularly advantageous for sectors requiring reliable performance in challenging environments or high-frequency usage. Key industries that commonly deploy rubber keypads with polyurethane protective overcoats include:
– Military
– Telecommunications
– Medical Devices
– Laboratory Instrumentation
– Point of Sale (POS)
– Industrial Equipment
– Consumer Electronics
– Automotive
– Aerospace
These industries leverage the protective features of polyurethane coatings to enhance the durability and longevity of rubber keypads in demanding operational conditions.
Testing Procedures for Polyurethane Rubber Keypad Protective Overcoats：
The RCA Abrasion Wear Test serves as the industry benchmark for assessing the durability of rubber keypads treated with a polyurethane protective overcoat. This testing method, aligned with ASTM F2357 specifications, offers a cost-effective means to scrutinize the performance of inks and coatings, including polyurethane overcoats, on various surfaces. Norman Tool’s RCA Abrasion Wear Tester is the recommended equipment for this evaluation, widely adopted by silicone keypad and membrane switch manufacturers. Beyond the electronics sector, this abrader finds application in automotive, appliance, cell phone, plastics, and coating industries. The abrasion test employs disposable abrasion paper to ensure consistent and reliable results, and the evaluation at the test’s conclusion assesses the visible wear on the tested material.