Contact Us
Which Material is Better for Membrane Switches?
Membrane switches are widely used in various industries, from consumer electronics to medical devices, thanks to their durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, the performance and longevity of a membrane switch largely depend on the materials used in its construction.
What does a membrane switch consist of?
A typical membrane switch consists of six layers: the graphic overlay (panel), adhesive layer, upper circuit (dome retainer layer), spacer layer, lower circuit, and back adhesive.
What is the panel material?
Panel Material: PC, PVC, or PET
The panel is the outermost layer, responsible for aesthetics, durability, and user interaction. The three most common materials are:
1. Polycarbonate (PC):
Advantages: Excellent thermal stability (-60°C to 120°C), high impact resistance, good electrical insulation, and UV resistance.
Disadvantages: Poor chemical resistance (especially to solvents), prone to stress cracking, and susceptible to oxidation over time.
Application：
Because of its easily degradable, PC is widely used in the field of environmental protection. It can meet the requirements of membrane switch panels. Highly transparent PC is often used as lenses for display windows.
2. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC):
Advantages: Good chemical resistance, flame retardant, and cost-effective.
Disadvantages: Poor thermal stability (-20°C to 60°C), less durable than PC or PET, and rarely used in modern membrane switches.
Application: PVC is only occasionally used as panel labels.
3. Polyester (PET)
Advantages: Excellent chemical and abrasion resistance, high thermal stability (-30°C to 160°C), strong dimensional stability, and superior flexibility.
Disadvantages: Slightly more expensive than PVC.
Best for: High-performance membrane switches, especially where durability and resistance to harsh environments are required.
Recommendation: PET is the best overall choice for most applications due to its superior durability and resistance.
What kind of circuit is used in the circuit layer?
The circuit layer determines the electrical performance of the switch.
1. PET Circuits (0.075mm–0.125mm thick) – Ideal for standard membrane switches due to flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
2. Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) – Used when fine-pitch traces (<1.00mm spacing) or complex circuits are needed.
3. Rigid PCB – Used in high-power or high-frequency applications where stability is critical.
Recommendation: PET for standard switches, FPC for high-density circuits, and PCB for industrial/automotive applications.
How to choose metal Dome?
The tactile feedback and lifespan of a membrane switch depend on the metal dome (snap dome) used.
1. Stainless Steel Domes – Durable and cost-effective (standard choice).
2. Nickel-Plated Domes – Better conductivity and corrosion resistance (most common).
3. Gold-Plated Domes – Superior conductivity and long-term stability (best for high-reliability applications).
Dome Size & Actuation Force:
8mm dome → 180–220g force
10mm dome → 220–280g force
12mm dome → 280–350g force
Recommendation: Nickel-plated domes for general use, gold-plated for medical/military applications.
How to choose the pin spacing of the terminal?
There are two pin spacings of the terminal to choose from: one is 2. 54mm pitch, and the other is 5. 08mm pitch.
2.54mm pitch (most common) – Easy to manufacture but requires secure crimping.
5.08mm pitch – More secure in high-vibration environments (e.g., automotive).
High-reliability connectors (FCI, TE Connectivity, DuPont) – Essential for automotive and aerospace applications.
Recommendation: 2.54mm for standard use, 5.08mm or locked connectors for harsh environments.
How to choose double-sided tape?
3M 467/468 (PET-based) – Best for waterproof applications.
3M 9495LE (Acrylic foam) – Good for uneven surfaces.
Recommendation: PET-based adhesives for waterproofing, foam-based for uneven surfaces.
To know more information, send your inquiry to us. Deson will give you a detailed answer!