An Insight into Control Panel Overlay Printing

In some cases, a graphic overlay provides the only link between your business name and the product you sell. A graphic overlay is often the “window dressing” on an otherwise plain box. Generally, the highest quality materials are used to produce your graphic overlay!

The process begins in the pre-press department. Then graphic artists will perform color-separation on your “camera-ready” or even design your art work for you. Then they stipulate the process steps, providing a seamless transition from concept to production. Completed art work is sent to you for review and approval before production takes place. 

Unlike paper printing, graphic overlays begin with high quality clear polyester or polycarbonate substrates. Layers of ink are applied to the underside of the substrate, starting with the darkest colors and/or fine graphic details, concluding with the lighter colors. Exclusively we use 3M adhesives, patterned-cut if necessary, to provide years of lasting and worry-free use.

A control panel overlay is a plastic fascia which is screen printed or digitally printed on the rear of a clear plastic substrate so that the printed detail is viewed through the front face.

Self-adhesive tape is then applied to the rear of the fascia and so when the overlay is applied to the product the printed detail is encapsulated behind the plastic providing an extremely durable finish.

Industrial label overlays can incorporate several features such as clear window areas for viewing electronic displays, translucent & colored led windows and high-resolution graphics. Switch areas can be embossed so that mechanical switches can be activated through the overlay or holes can be punched to allow the switches and dials to be fitted within.

Selective textures can be incorporated into your design and GSM can color match to any recognized color specification including Pantone, BS and RAL. We can also print chrome and metallic inks to give your control panel overlay that extra dimension.

A comprehensive range of plastic materials and finishes are available for the control panel overlays and these include lexan polycarbonate and autotype polyester incorporating anti-glare, textured, brushed and gloss finishes. Also, a range of adhesives are available to ensure that the right materials are specified for your application. With all our processes and materials tested to ANSI specifications for UV stability we offer our products with confidence and guarantee durability.

The Control Panel Overlay Printing can be assembled to an aluminum, steel or acrylic support panel incorporating PEM studs and stand-offs as required.

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