Color matching is important for uniformity and aesthetics, no matter what the application. Here at SiTECH, we are able to match specific colors for your custom silicone keypads within 1 Delta-E. OK, but what does that mean? That means we can match the silicone color or any graphic artwork that we apply to it.
Let’s back up: the term Delta-E (dE) is a number showing the distance between two colors. We hold our colors to 1.0 dE because it happens to be the tiniest color difference the human eye can see without aid. Any number smaller than 1.0 dE requires the use of visual aids in order to differentiate. To that end, we use a spectrophotometer — an instrument that can measure the keypad’s color itself or specified color of your printed rubber keypads.
Pantone Color Matching System: Explained
We use the Pantone Color Matching System (PMS) as our standards for color. It’s the most common standardized color system used all over the world. But we take things a step further and can match unique colors that are not listed on the Pantone Color Matching System. We do this by taking measurements of the specified required color and then calculate a formula to produce that color through the combination of certain colors.
Here at SiTECH, we use the Pantone Solid palette, comprised of 1,114 colors – all of which can be identified by a three- or four-digit number, followed by 3 different suffixes:
- C for coated
- U for uncoated
- M for matte
The only suffix we match here is Coated, mainly because of the color difference between coated and uncoated stocks. More absorbent than their coated counterparts, uncoated stocks are affected by something called “dot gain”. This is the effect of half-tone dots that grow in area between the printed surface and original film, which can lead to a slight variation in the final color.
Silicone-Based Inks
When it comes to our printed silicone keypads and components, we use silicone-based inks, which can basically print on anything made of silicone rubber. During the manufacturing process, the ink stays in liquid form; after that, it remains stable for 24 hours at normal room temperature. It will then be heat cured for 10 minutes.
Our entire process ensures accuracy and repeatability, as we track and record it for reference in future projects. The best part about our inks is that they create a permanent bond when applied to any silicone product.
On top of that, we apply a proprietary abrasion-resistant coating designed to further extend the life of the product. We also apply coatings that protect the product from petroleum and harsh chemicals, and coatings that leave a nice, clean matte finish. We have a wide variety of colors when it comes to coatings, resulting in a clear molded silicone component that can be backlit.
Got a highly detailed design to be used on a clear molded silicone keypad or component? We will use a special laser that can etch out the intended graphic.
Got a specific color request for your product? Perhaps one that matches your logo exactly? Just let us know and we will draw up a prototype for you to approve before final manufacturing.
Contact SiTech
To learn more about the benefits of our SiTECH Color Matching Process or to get a free quote on your project, please contact us today at 757-887-8488.
