Epoxy Key Top Coating for Rubber Keypads

Epoxy Key Tops for Rubber Keypads

Epoxy key top coating is a protective clear epoxy resin coating applied to only the silicone rubber key tops. This thick coating gives keys a hard plastic feel and glossy appearance. Epoxy coating can extend the longevity of key top artwork as it has abrasion resistance and protects the tops of the keys from chemicals, dirt and oils. 

The epoxy key tops can really make your product stand out from the competition as it is more visually appealing than standard rubber key tops. The keys have a plastic appearance but producing the epoxy coated rubber keypads is considerably less cost than manufacturing plastic keys. We recommend epoxy key top coating for keys that receive a high number of actuations or applications that are exposed to abrasion. Additionally, the epoxy coated keys can also be backlit similar to a standard rubber keypad. The rubber is laser etched prior to the epoxy being applied to the key tops.  

How Do I Get Started?

How Do I Get Started?

CSI just needs to collect a few details on your product and design. Once we obtain some preliminary information on your design, we can begin the quoting and proposal process.

Please provide any mechanical drawings (DWG, DXF, IGES, STEP) and artwork files (AI or CDR) if available.

  • Molded rubber or polyester overlay?
  • Copper flex circuit or printed silver?
  • Mechanical dimensions – height and width of part, keys, etc.
  • Artwork/Graphic Overlay if not, how many colors (Pantone #s)?
  • Embossed (plateau/pillow or rim)?
  • Tactile feel (domes)?
  • Any backlighting?  Any LEDs?
  • Length of tail and tail break out location?
  • What type of connection?  Female connector or prep for ZIF?
  • What type of environment?  Does the keypad need to be environmentally sealed?
  • Are there any windows?  Do they need to be reinforced (opti-bonded)?
  • Is there a display and would you like us to integrate it into the interface?

Other Key Considerations

  • Space between keys and around perimeter of keypad should be .100” or better. 
  • .100” center to center min for tail with connector. 
  • 1mm center to center min for ZIF type interconnect. 
  • Tail exit should be .25” min. from edge, keys and other components (tail cannot exit under key). 
  • Normal final assembly tolerances = size +/- .010”, die cut to image = +/- .010”