Silicone Button Membrane Switch
A silicone button membrane switch is a type of user interface that combines a flexible silicone rubber keypad with a membrane switch circuit. When you press a silicone key, the internal “web” or dome structure deforms, pushing a conductive pill (carbon, silver, or gold) or a metal dome against the underlying printed circuit (PET/PCB/FPC) to close the circuit and register the keystroke.
Key Features
- Tactile feedback: The silicone dome provides a distinct “snap” feel, which can be tuned by adjusting the web geometry, key travel, and rubber hardness (Shore A 30–85) .
- Durability & sealing: Silicone inherently resists UV, ozone, oils, and temperature extremes. When the switch is assembled with perimeter silicone gaskets, it can meet IP67 ratings for dust- and water-ingress, making it ideal for outdoor or wash-down environments.
- Backlighting & graphics: Legends can be screen-printed, laser-etched (for backlighting), or embossed on the silicone surface. LEDs can be embedded under translucent keys for night or status indication.
Common Applications
- Medical devices – chemical resistance, easy sterilization, precise tactile feel.
- Industrial & marine – sealed against dust, water, salt spray; survives vibration and wide temperature swings.
- Consumer electronics – remote controls, calculators, fitness equipment where silent, sealed, and ergonomic keypads are required.
Manufacturing Considerations
- Molding: Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) is compression-molded around conductive pills or metal domes.
- Conductive options: carbon/graphite pills, silver or gold pills for ultra-low resistance, or stainless-steel domes for crisp tactile feel .
- Integration: The silicone keypad is bonded to a PET/PCB/FPC circuit layer with 3M adhesives and can include EMI/ESD shielding gaskets or light-guide films for uniform backlighting.
Conclusion
In summary, a silicone button membrane switch merges the soft-touch, sealed, and rugged qualities of silicone rubber with the thin-profile, low-profile circuitry of membrane switches, making it a versatile choice for demanding user-interface applications.
Contact Info
LID CO., LIMITED
02, Chengfen Rd., Ronggui Community, Foshan City, Guangdong, China 528303
T: (0757) 8499 2835
F: (0757) 8624 9932
website: https://tactilemembrane.com
Working Hours
Mon – Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 8am – 4pm
Sun: Closed
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