Understanding membrane switches
Membrane Switch is an electronic control component composed of multiple layers of flexible films stacked together.
Its core structure mainly consists of the following parts:
1. Surface Material（Overlay）: Usually, polyester (PET) or polycarbonate (PC) films are used, with a thickness ranging from 0.1 to 0.3 millimeters.
This layer can be processed for printing to present graphic and textual information, and it has the characteristics of anti-scratch and oil-proof resistance,
thus ensuring durability and clarity during long-term use.
2. Circuit Layer(PCB): Conductive circuits are formed through silver paste, carbon ink, or copper foil etching technology.
Among them, silver paste circuits are suitable for high-precision scenarios due to their low resistance characteristic (less than 100 milliohms);
in contrast, carbon ink, although less costly, has a higher resistance (about 500 milliohms), making it suitable for applications where cost sensitivity is a factor.
3. Separator Layer: Made of PET material with a thickness of 0.05 to 0.2 millimeters, it is formed through laser cutting or mold stamping processes to create keyhole cavities
for achieving the function of key separation, ensuring the reliability and sensitivity of key operations.
4. Back Adhesive Layer: Utilizes high-performance bonding materials such as 3M glue or acrylic glue to securely fix with the device's casing,
ensuring the stability and reliability after installation.
Different types of membrane switches
Silicone Elastomeric Rubber Keypads
Silver Flexible Membrane Switches
Copper Flex Membrane Switches
PCB Based Membrane Switches
Why we choose membrane switches
When choosing membrane switches for your devices—whether it’s a medical tool, a kitchen appliance, or an industrial control panel—durability is likely at the top of your list. After all, no one wants buttons that crack, fade, or stop responding after a few months. At Shenzhen Higoal Technology Limited , we design silicone membrane switches to withstand the toughest conditions, and here’s how our material choices make all the difference.
The top layer you touch is made of silicone rubber, a material loved for its flexibility and resilience. Silicone can handle extreme temperatures—from freezing cold to scorching heat—without losing its shape or becoming brittle. It’s also naturally resistant to water, oils, and chemicals, making it perfect for hospitals, factories, or even outdoor equipment. Imagine a nurse sanitizing a device repeatedly or a chef spilling grease on a control panel; silicone wipes clean effortlessly and won’t degrade over time.Additionally，Silicone’s “self-healing” properties allow it to bounce back from minor scratches or indents.
For over 25 years, we’ve tailored membrane switches for industries where failure isn’t an option. Our silicone membrane keypad is tested in labs and real-world settings—from humid tropics to arid deserts—to guarantee performance. Whether you’re upgrading an existing product or launching a new one, our switches offer peace of mind: fewer replacements, happier customers, and a stronger brand reputation.