Here at Silicone Technology Corp. (Si-Tech Corp.) we utilize a worldwide standardized color system known as “Pantone Color Matching System” (PMS). To match colors of the silicone itself, or any graphic artwork being applied to it. The standard unit used for measuring the distance between two colors on the color spectrum is known as Delta-E (dE). Many companies typically match colors within 3 Delta-E. Si-Tech exceeds industry standards by matching every color within 1 Delta-E. Color variations this small are undetectable by the human eye.

Si-Tech has the capability to not only mold opaque pigments, but translucent pigments as well. The amount of pigment injected into the silicone rubber is directly related to the transparency of the final product. We use advanced instrumentation to test surface finishes, translucency, and colors of opaque, translucent, and transparent color samples. These highly precise machines allow our technicians to effectively analyze, formulate, and control the colors in a more comprehensive, streamlined process.

We are able to accurately match pigments for our molded parts, as well as our high-quality silicone-based inks. Silicone based inks create a permanent bond when applied to silicone products. Mixing and metering of silicone ink is kept within one hundredth of a gram to ensure accuracy and repeatability.

High quality pigment, precision hardware, advanced software, and experienced lab technicians help us match and manufacture colors on site. This dramatically improves our products consistency and repeatability, while also accelerating color-matching lead times.

All of our positive and reverse graphics are done using screen printing. We use proprietary silicone inks that create a cross-link bond to our silicone rubber keypads and components during the curing process. This makes an extremely durable and long-lasting graphic that will last the lifetime of your keypad under normal industry circumstances.

Visually aesthetic graphics can have a large influence on how users feel about your product. A well-designed keypad enhances not only the appearance of your product, but can also enhance the functionality of it as well. Below are a few recommendations we frequently give to enhance the design of your silicone rubber keypad and the graphics you intend to have applied.

Si-Tech has the capability to accept graphic designs in the following formats:

• *.ai (Adobe Illustrator)
• *.cdr (Corel Draw)
• *.pdf (Adobe)
• *.dwg (AutoCAD)
• *.dxf (AutoCAD)

Graphic Design Considerations:

• Solid colors can be screened up to the edge of a flat key top.
• On curved key tops, solid colors can be screened up to 0.015” to the tangent point of the outer radius.
• The minimum distance from the edge of a keypads mat to a legend is 0.015”.
• The minimum line weight for a legend is 0.010”.
• The minimum text height is 0.050”.
• The minimum radius of a concave or convex key top is 0.375”.
• The maximum curvature depth for concave key tops with a minimum radius of 0.375” is 0.060”.
• The maximum curvature height for convex key tops with a minimum radius of 0.375” is 0.060”.

Si-Tech utilizes many complex technologies to take full advantage of silicones’ capabilities; manufacturing everything from simple gaskets to highly complex silicone keypads. Call Si-Tech today at 757-887-8488.