Graphic Overlays

graphic overlay control panel membrane

About Graphic Overlays

Graphic overlays are the top printed layer of user interfaces, designed to display functions, guide users, and protect the underlying electronics. Typically made from polycarbonate or polyester materials, they combine visual branding with functional design.

Unlike standard labels or decals, graphic overlays are built to withstand harsh environments — offering resistance to moisture, chemicals, abrasion, and UV exposure. They are widely used in control panels, medical equipment, industrial machines, and consumer electronics for their durability, clarity, and tactile compatibility.

At Scrint Technology (M) Sdn Bhd, we specialize in manufacturing custom graphic overlays that merge form and function. Our overlays are engineered for long-lasting performance while enhancing user experience and product aesthetics.

Our Graphic Overlays: Durable, Custom Interfaces for Control Panels

Sometimes referred to as the membrane switch overlay or graphic overlay membrane, the graphic overlay is the topmost, user-facing layer of an interface panel. It plays a critical role not just in aesthetics but also in usability — serving as the visual guide and touchpoint that helps users interact accurately and intuitively with a device.

To be truly effective, a graphic overlay should strike the right balance: clear and practical for function, while maintaining a polished and visually appealing design. It often includes labels, icons, or branding elements printed on the reverse side to protect the design from wear and tear during regular use.

To support diverse usage environments and design preferences, we offer a variety of high-quality material options, including but not limited to:

  • Polycarbonate – known for its clarity and impact resistance
  • Polyester – ideal for high-durability, long-life applications
  • Hard-coated materials – add scratch and chemical resistance
  • Anti-bacterial surfaces – suitable for medical or hygiene-sensitive applications

Additionally, we provide custom top coatings to match your desired look and tactile experience. These surface textures include:

  • Velvet – a lightly textured finish that hides fingerprints
  • Gloss – a shiny finish that enhances color vibrancy
  • Matte – a smooth, non-reflective surface for readability
  • Fine texture – a subtle, refined finish for a sleek feel

These combinations of materials and finishes ensure that your graphic overlay not only looks great but also performs reliably in its intended environment — whether that’s a hospital, a factory floor, or a consumer device.

Screen Printed Labels in Graphic Overlays

Screen printed labels are a type of printed graphic element used in graphic overlays where the design (such as logos, icons, text, or background colors) is applied layer-by-layer using screen printing techniques. 

This process involves pushing ink through a mesh stencil (screen) onto the substrate — typically polycarbonate or polyester.

Screen Printed Labels in Graphic Overlays Membrane.png

Benefits of Screen Printed Labels in Overlays

  • High durability – ideal for industrial, medical, and commercial use

  • Long-lasting print – resists abrasion, chemicals, UV, and moisture

  • Rich color accuracy – great for brand consistency

  • Tactile or non-tactile integration – can align perfectly with buttons or LED windows

Common Applications of Screen Printed Labels

  • Control panels

  • Medical device interfaces

  • Appliance overlays

  • Machinery user interfaces

  • Consumer electronics

Screen printed labels in graphic overlays provide a high-quality, durable, and customizable way to communicate essential information, enhance branding, and ensure the longevity of your user interface.

What Are Embossed Graphic Overlays?

Embossed graphic overlays are custom-designed overlays where specific areas — such as buttons, icons, or branding elements — are raised (embossed) to create a tactile surface. This gives the user a physical cue to interact with, improving usability and aesthetics.

Purpose of Embossing in Overlays

  • To enhance user interaction with membrane switches or control panels

  • To make key areas easier to locate by touch

  • To give a more premium and intuitive user experience

  • To add dimension and visual interest to flat surfaces

Types of Embossing

  • Pillow Embossing – A soft, rounded raise around a button or icon

  • Rim Embossing – Raised edges only, keeping the center flat (for better key response)

  • Dome Embossing – Full dome shape over a button for a pronounced tactile feel

  • Logo or Text Embossing – Used to highlight branding or labels

Embossed graphic overlays are not just about looks — they play a key role in usability, durability, and branding, especially in user interfaces that require tactile feedback or enhanced visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a graphic overlay and what does it do?

A graphic overlay is the top, user-facing layer of a control panel or device interface. It displays functions and branding while protecting the electronics underneath, and is typically made from polycarbonate or polyester for resistance to moisture, chemicals, abrasion, and UV exposure.

Scrint Technology offers overlays in polycarbonate (clarity and impact resistance), polyester (high durability for long-life use), hard-coated materials (scratch and chemical resistance), and anti-bacterial surfaces for medical or hygiene-sensitive applications.

Four main finishes: velvet (textured, hides fingerprints), gloss (vibrant color), matte (non-reflective, easy to read), and fine texture (a subtle, refined feel) — chosen to match the look and tactile experience you need.

It’s an overlay where buttons, icons, or branding are raised to create a tactile surface, helping users locate keys by touch and giving a more premium feel. Scrint offers pillow, rim, dome, and logo/text embossing styles depending on the interaction needed.

Yes. Screen printed labels resist abrasion, chemicals, UV, and moisture, and offer rich, consistent color — making them suitable for control panels, medical device interfaces, and machinery user interfaces.

Yes. Overlays are commonly used to display logos, icons, and brand colors on the topmost layer, combining visual branding with functional design specific to your product.

Contact Us

Address

11, Jalan Pknk 3/7, Kawasan Perindustrian Sg Petani, 08000, Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.