Scratch Resistant 
Precision Human-Machine Interface
High-Performance Subsurface Graphic Overlays
At Zhejiang ZIRA Membrane Switch Co., Ltd., graphic overlays are manufactured to withstand aggressive cleaning chemicals, repetitive mechanical actuation, UV exposure, and wide temperature swings. Printed on the reverse (second surface) of specialized Autotype Polyester (PET) or Lexan Polycarbonate (PC) films, the graphics are physically shielded by the base material, ensuring that legends and brand graphics remain permanently crisp throughout decades of duty.
Abrasion & Chemical Proof
Custom Tactile Embossing
High-Bond 3M Adhesive
Featured Graphic Overlay Series
Self-Adhesive 
Self-Adhesive PET Touch Panel Graphic Faceplate
Get a Quote Full Color 
Precision Digital & Screen Printed Control Panel
Get a Quote Heavy Duty 
Industrial Lexan Polycarbonate / PET Overlay
Get a Quote Medical Grade 
Medical Equipment Cleanable Front Panel Faceplate
Get a Quote Backlight Ready 
Backlit Key & LED Window Instrument Overlay
Get a QuoteEngineering Specifications & Material Comparison
| Parameter | Polyester (PET - Autotype/Toray) | Polycarbonate (PC - Lexan/Sabic) |
|---|---|---|
| Actuation Life (Flexural) | > 5,000,000 cycles (ideal for tactile switches) | < 100,000 cycles (primarily for non-tactile panels) |
| Chemical Resistance | Superior (alcohol, cleaners, harsh industrial solvents) | Moderate (attacked by aromatic hydrocarbons & ketones) |
| Optical Clarity & Windows | Good (selective clear window textures available) | High clarity (excellent transparent display windows) |
| Standard Thicknesses | 0.125mm, 0.15mm, 0.175mm, 0.20mm, 0.25mm | 0.175mm, 0.25mm, 0.38mm, 0.50mm, 0.80mm, 1.0mm |
| Surface Finishes | Fine / Velvet / Matte / Anti-glare / Gloss | Velvet / Matte / Brushed / Anti-reflective |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F) | -30°C to +75°C (-22°F to 167°F) |
| Backing Adhesive Options | Genuine 3M 467MP, 3M 468MP, 3M 300LSE, 3M 9448A, waterproof closed-cell foam | |
Overlay Customization Capabilities
Display Windows & Backlighting
Selective clear gloss windows for LCD, LED, and VFD displays. Dead-front printing allows icons to appear only when illuminated from behind. Transparent color tints (red, green, blue, smoke) available for enhanced contrast.
Tactile Embossing Tooling
Precision CNC male/female thermal embossing dies for perimeter rim embossing, pillow embossing, and spherical dome embossing. Ensures optimal travel, tactile snap feel, and finger location guidance.
Tight Tolerance Die-Cutting
CNC laser cutting for fast prototyping and high-precision steel rule or hard tooling dies for volume stamping. Outer perimeter and internal cutout tolerances held strictly to ±0.1mm (±0.004").
Exact Color Matching
Color matching to Pantone Matching System (PMS) and RAL standards under D65 standard light booths. UV-resistant, non-fading inks tested for cross-hatch adhesion and chemical fastness.
Frequently Asked Questions for Sourcing Graphic Overlays
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for custom graphic overlays?
Zhejiang ZIRA Membrane Switch Co., Ltd. supports new product development with prototype batches starting from 1 to 5 pieces. Standard production batch quantities typically run from 100 to 10,000+ pieces.
What artwork files are needed to begin production?
Vector files in .AI (Adobe Illustrator), .DXF, .DWG, or .PDF format with clearly defined vector cut lines, dimensions, specified Pantone or RAL color codes, and notes on texture/window requirements.
Why choose second-surface subsurface printing?
With second-surface printing, all inks are applied to the reverse side of the transparent film. The top film acts as an impervious protective shield. It prevents the print from wearing off when subjected to continuous finger touch, chemical disinfection, grease, or abrasions.
Can graphic overlays be integrated with sub-assemblies?
Yes, we routinely laminate overlays to metal backplates (aluminum/stainless steel), plastic injection-molded enclosures, PCB assemblies, and acrylic/glass touch screens before shipping.
Direct Factory Collaboration
Request an Engineering Review & Quotation
Send your drawings and specifications. Our technical engineering team will analyze your stack-up, suggest the most cost-effective film and adhesive systems, and provide a competitive quote within 24 hours.
