What are keyboard and switch covers?

Keyboard and switch covers are precisely moulded Elastomer elements, which sit between the mostly electrical switching element and the externally visible operating element. Thanks to their material elasticity, they transmit the movement of a button or switch, while at the same time providing a seal and preventing the ingress of impurities. In addition, they significantly characterise the haptic feedback and therefore contribute significantly to the perceived feeling of quality and value.

 

The structure varies depending on the application:

  • Individual button covers: custom-fit protective caps for individual switches or buttons
  • Membrane keypads with elastomer domes: combine several buttons in one continuous surface
  • Mould inserts or overmoulding: integrated into housing or control panels

 

Thanks to manufacturing technologies such as Silicone injection moulding, Transfer moulding or 2-component injection moulding, components can be produced with defined recovery behaviour and homogeneous wall thickness. This means that both the feel and the sealing function are retained over a long period of time and under high stress.

 

Functions and applications of keypad and switch covers

Keyboard and switch covers fulfil a variety of technical and functional tasks. They protect, insulate and at the same time enable precise operation under demanding environmental conditions:

  • Protection against dust, moisture and chemicals
  • Mechanical protection against wear and operating forces
  • Hygiene protection in medical or food processing environments
  • Electrical insulation for switches and operating elements
  • Safe operation thanks to clear restoring force and defined pressure point
  • Visual and tactile design with coloured or translucent materials

 

Typical applications:

  • Industrial electronics: control panels on machines, control desks and systems
  • Medical technology: Silicone covers for hygienic control panels and diagnostic devices
  • Outdoor electronics: Protection of operating elements on devices that are exposed to the elements
  • Household appliances: control panels on kitchen appliances, washing machines or control panels
  • Measurement and communication technology: switch and button covers with a durable feel

 

Components and materials of keyboard and switch covers

Keyboard and switch covers are made from materials that are elastic, abrasion-resistant and chemically resistant and can also be customised to meet visual or tactile requirements.

 

Typical materials:

  • Siliconehigh elasticity, operating temperature range from -60 °C to +200 °C
  • LSR (Liquid Silicone Rubber): for high-precision, fine geometries with even key travel; translucent components for backlit keys and displays are also possible
  • TPE (thermoplastic elastomers): flexible, recyclable, suitable for 2-component composite parts
  • EPDMweather and ozone resistant, often for outdoor applications
  • NBRoil and chemical resistant

 

Keyboard and switch covers can be customised to ensure protection, ease of use and durability:

  • Integrated Sealing lips For sealing against enclosures or front panels
  • Integrated electrically conductive zones establish the switching contact on the circuit board
  • Defined coupling moulds for defined pressure point, restoring force, force-displacement characteristics
  • Laser-markable surfaces for permanent symbol labelling
  • Transparent window zones for LED or display lighting
  • Antimicrobial or chemical-resistant coatings for sterile environments