Silicone rubber keypad with distinct shaped buttons for outdoor, rugged environments. Using rubber keypad material opens up endless possibilities for key design.

Key features and benefits of a silicone keypad

Applications across industries

Silicone rubber keypads are widely used switch technology in the electronic industry. Silicone keypads are integrated in devices in industrial and professional environments where durability, precision, and environmental resistance are critical. These keypads offer rugged reliability in sectors that demand high-performance human-machine interfaces.

 

Agriculture & construction equipment: Modern tractors, harvesting machines, and earthmoving equipment rely on rugged keypads for operator controls. These keypads withstand dust, moisture, and temperature extremes, ensuring seamless functionality even in outdoor or high-vibration environments.

 

Communication & safety equipment: From two-way radios to emergency response systems, personal communication devices rely on membrane keypads for critical input functions. Silicone keypads are designed to withstand shock, water exposure, and constant use, making them ideal for military, security, and emergency service applications.

Industrial automation and heavy machinery: In factories, processing plants, and heavy equipment, silicone rubber keypads serve as control panel interfaces, machine operation consoles, and safety system inputs. Their abrasion resistance and chemical resistance make them ideal for harsh industrial environments where exposure to oil, grease, and solvents is common. With backlighting, these keypads remain visible in dimly lit control rooms or outdoor sites. ​

 

Medical & laboratory equipment: In hospitals, diagnostic labs, and surgical environments, silicone rubber keypads are used in patient monitoring devices, imaging systems, and sterilization equipment. Their chemical resistance ensures they can be regularly cleaned and disinfected without degradation. With customizable tactile feel and actuation force, they provide reliable input for precision-sensitive devices.

Silicone rubber keypad for industrial devices, 3D stack-up with different layers

Anatomy of a silicone rubber keypad

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  • HMI solutions from concept to production
  • Cross-industry HMI expertise
  • Keypad technologies and materials
  • Case studies 

Design and customisation options

 

At Mekoprint, we specialize in crafting silicone rubber keypads that seamlessly integrate with your product's design and functionality. Our comprehensive customization options ensure that each keypad not only meets your technical requirements but also enhances the overall user experience.​

Tailored shapes and sizes

Silicone rubber keypad with raised keys and good tactility for outdoor machinery. Silicone rubber is easy to mould to the shape your product needs.
Silicone rubber keypad for controlling welding equipment.  Add colour to your rubber keypad by co-moulding different coloured silicone rubbers, by spray-painting or silkscreen printing.

Vibrant colours

Enhanced backlighting

Silicone rubber keypad for forlift trucks with LED status light. Backlight is essential for safe operation of a rubber keypad in dark environments.
Silicon keys with good tactile feedback and backlighting. Rubber keypads give clear tactile feel, enhancing the usability of your device.

Optimised actuation force and tactile feedback

Domenic B. Nielsen
Business Development Manager, HMI & Industrial Graphics
dbn@mekoprint.com

Get in touch with us

Case: Amazonen Werke - HMI solution that stands out in the industry

HMI terminal for agricultural machinery with silicone rubber keypad and backlight.
"It is our ambition to give our customers more than what they initially expect. We are curious. Ask questions. Get involved. Reflect on new ways to approach a task - be it complex or straightforward."

Business Development Manager, Mekoprint

Domenic Breitbart Nielsen

Manufacturing excellence

Compression molding: Utilising precision molds to create keypads with exact specifications and consistent quality.

Surface treatments: Applying coatings such as epoxy or polyurethane to enhance durability and provide a premium finish.

Laser etching: Implementing laser technology for precise and durable markings, essential for intricate designs and backlit applications.

HMI design and engineering services. Structured process to development of customised keypads for electronic devices.
HMI design and engineering services. Structured process to development of customised keypads for electronic devices.

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