Key Automation manufactures and exports graphic overlays (German: Frontfolien and Bedienfeldfolien) for customers in Germany. As machines become more advanced, the demand for clear, durable operating interfaces grows. Our graphic overlays can be attached to industrial control panels, consumer electronics and many other products.

Our graphic overlays are printed with sharp text and bright, clear images, and they carry a strong adhesive for reliable bonding to a wide range of devices. They withstand harsh environmental conditions. Below you will find the types, specifications, benefits and applications.

A graphic overlay is the printed front layer of a control panel. It provides clear operating instructions and control options for a machine and makes the user interface easy to understand. Overlays are made from polycarbonate or polyester, offer scratch resistance and high durability, and keep their appearance under demanding conditions.

We offer several overlay types for different requirements:

• Polycarbonate Overlays: Our polycarbonate overlays are durable, scratch-resistant and UV-resistant, which protects the printed graphic from yellowing. They also withstand chemical solvents, oils and cleaning agents.
• Polyester Overlays: Made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) with a special coating, polyester overlays resist acids, alkalis and solvents. They are common in industrial machinery and food production, where they must cope with heat, humidity and abrasion.
• Control Panel Overlays: Control panel overlays for industrial, commercial and consumer electronics. Sharp images and text, bright colours and resistance to dust, UV light and chemicals ensure a long service life.
• Custom Digital Panel Overlays: Custom overlays for digital user interfaces on control panels. They give clear instructions for operating complex machines and carry a strong adhesive for secure mounting.

The following technical sheet gives an overview of the available options:

Parameter	Description	Specifications
Material Options	Types of materials used for the overlay	Polycarbonate, Polyester (PET), Acrylic, Vinyl, Silicone
Thickness	The thickness of the overlay material	0.005" - 0.030"
Printing Resolution	Maximum resolution for printed graphics and text	Up to 1440 dpi
Adhesive Type	Type of adhesive used to bond the overlay to the substrate	Pressure-sensitive adhesive, Heat-activated adhesive
Adhesive Strength	Adhesion force to the surface	15 - 50 oz/in (Depending on application)
Operating Temperature Range	The temperature range in which the overlay can function effectively	(-40°C to 93°C)
UV Resistance	Resistance to UV light, preventing yellowing and degradation	UV-stabilized materials available
Tactile Feedback	Feedback type when buttons are pressed	Embossed, , Flat, Tactile Dome Switches
Backlighting Options	Techniques for illuminating the overlay	LED backlighting, Electroluminescent (EL) panels, Fiber optic backlighting

Our graphic overlays offer these features for demanding applications:

• Material Options: Polycarbonate, polyester and acrylic are available, all durable and resistant to dust, water, chemical solvents and UV radiation.
• Adhesive Backing: Every overlay has a high-quality adhesive that withstands wear and tear. Permanent, removable and heat-activated adhesives are available, so the overlay can be matched to the substrate and the application.
• Customizable Options: Colour matching, textured finishes, embossing and debossing are available to improve tactile feedback and backlighting. These options improve usability and appearance in many sectors.
• Advanced Features: Integrated LEDs for backlighting, flexible conductive paths between the layers for efficient wiring, and haptic feedback when keys are pressed can be added to enhance both function and appearance.

Durability and flexibility make our graphic overlays useful in many applications, such as:

A graphic overlay has to match your housing, your display window and your language. We work from your artwork so that the result fits your product.

• Languages: Legends and symbols can be prepared in German or other languages, based on your artwork.
• Finishes: Matte, gloss, textured and embossed finishes can be selected for readability and feel.
• Backlighting: LED, electroluminescent (EL) and fibre-optic backlighting options are listed in the specification table.
• Delivery: Export to Germany by air or sea freight, with terms confirmed in the quotation.

As a manufacturer of graphic overlays for the German market, Key Automation supplies overlays and labels made from high-quality materials with excellent adhesion. They are used in industrial, commercial and household products. Contact us today for more information.