Design and Construction

What sets Bergquist membrane switches ahead of the competition is our exclusive HeatSeal spacer layer. The strength and impenetrable lamination created by the HeatSeal process protects the delicate switch circuitry from harsh environments, solvent attack, fluid ingression, and electrostatic discharge (ESD).

Bergquist developed the HeatSeal process so you can design a membrane switch into most any environment. Bergquist HeatSeal switches operate under water, in dust and dirt, in high and low temperature extremes, and in critical reliability environments such as medical where harsh cleansers are commonly used. No other membrane switch manufacturer has developed a fabrication technique as durable as the Bergquist HeatSeal membrane switch.

Pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) switches are adequate for many membrane switch applications, however engineers cannot always identify the environmental conditions their switch will come in contact with. PSA switches often fail when they are subjected to temperature extremes or come in contact with cleaning solutions or other chemicals. Moisture, temperature extremes, and chemicals are typical enemies of standard PSA (pressure-sensitive adhesive) membrane switches.

Membrane Switch Features

Graphic Layer
· Polyester construction – offers long life and chemical resistance

Optional Hardcoats
· Gloss, semi-gloss or matte
· Chemical and scratch resistant
· Can be used to create display windows and decorative finishes

Custom Colors
· Translucent colors for back-lighting and windows
· Deadfronts to hide legends until back-lit

Variety of Tactile Response Options
· Tactile graphic over flat circuits
· Pillow or rim embossing
· Polyester or metal domes

Switch Circuit Layers
· Screened silver circuit – for switching loads up to one watt
· Copper PCB – for switching loads greater than one watt, or when using LEDs, displays, etc.
· Screened silver shield applied to top of circuit for ESD protection

Spacer Layer
· HeatSeal – internally vented
· Thickness based on actuation force requirements

HeatSeal Membrane Switch Typical Properties
· Click here for a PDF version of the HeatSeal Typical Properties Data Sheet