Hallmark Nameplate is known for its high-quality graphic overlays manufactured using state-of-the-art laser cut, die cut, or plot cut fabrication methods. Not only do graphic overlays provide the primary function of identifying each selection on industrial/medical equipment and consumer products, but they also prevent moisture infiltration, UV ray damage, and chemical corrosion of the underlying electronic surface.
If you want to take your graphics overlay to the next level, consider embossing to add a tactile method of making sure the right function is being selected among multiple controls. Perimeter embossing applied to graphic overlays is being used for touch-sensing labels in many industry sectors:
- Medical devices
- Industrial equipment
- Consumer electronics
- Domestic appliances
- Aerospace and military
- Fitness equipment
What is Perimeter Embossing?
Perimeter embossing is sometimes referred to as rim embossed graphics. It is a labeling feature where a ridge around the edge of the key is raised to the next level above the label itself. Overlay embossing is often used on membrane switches to add a raised, tactile finish to the keypad. The two-dimensional area gives the operator confirmation that they are indeed pressing the correct button.
At Hallmark Nameplate, we realize the design of any user interface using membrane or discrete switches with perimeter embossing must first consider the requirements of the product – the functions to be identified and any options that are to be featured. And when you consider medical equipment or industrial machinery, the need to quickly and easily identify the correct function is crucial to the operation of the equipment. Perimeter embossing that raises the key edge to the next level can be viewed as a safety feature, helping to protect lives and property.
The Aesthetic Value of Next Level Overlays
Next-level perimeter embossing also has a wide range of applications for adding a distinct look to consumer products or electronic devices and can be a very creative way of setting your product apart from the competition. When graphics are embossed, they create an additional impression of an area, lettering, or a pattern.
The raised edge surface of a perimeter embossed keypad or control panel will add a visual dimension to surfaces, and the selection with perimeter embossing adds even another level of interest. The tactile feel of the raised edge gives your products a look of exclusivity. Perimeter embossing changes not only the feel of the material, but it can also add a level of quality that is above standard design graphics.
Why Choose Hallmark Nameplate?
Membrane switches and discrete switches with next-level perimeter embossing do offer a high-tech look to the user interface. But in fast-paced manufacturing or with critical care medical devices, the raised rim switch is a reliable choice for a human interface that promotes safety. The multiple advantages of a sealed overlay and a raised rim keypad that is easy to clean and engineered to operate in harsh environments or sterile locations are what make these graphic overlays a great option.
We have the solution for all your graphic overlay and labeling needs. If your equipment will be located in an environment that is dry, hot, wet, cold, chemical, or UV-exposed, we produce long-lasting, high-quality interface labels. Each graphic overlay with next-level embossing is custom-designed to meet your every end-user application.
Hallmark Nameplate has been serving the manufacturing and engineering industries for over 60 years, providing nameplates, membrane switches, and electronic assemblies for thousands of products, including OEM, telecommunications, computers, and the medical industry. We take pride in our engineering and design staff who develop products under ISO 9001 quality assurance guidelines. It doesn’t matter if your project is large or small; we can provide a fast and free quote. Or fill out our convenient contact form to receive more information on the products that you are interested in.
Want to learn more? Read our guide, Graphic Overlays Explained: Design, Benefits, and Manufacturing Process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embossed Graphic Overlays
What is an embossed graphic overlay?
An embossed graphic overlay is one where selected areas of the printed film are permanently raised above the surrounding surface. The raised area gives the operator a tactile target that can be found by touch, defines the key boundary visually, and in a membrane switch helps direct finger pressure onto the dome underneath. Embossing is formed as a separate operation after printing, using heat and a matched tool.
What types of embossing are used on overlays?
Three are common. Pillow embossing raises the whole key area in a soft dome, giving a broad target and a gentle profile. Rim or perimeter embossing raises only the outline of the key, leaving the centre flat, which defines the key edge crisply while keeping the printed legend on a flat plane. Dome or button embossing creates a pronounced raised button for keys that must be found quickly without looking. Selection is driven by how the panel is used rather than by appearance.
What is perimeter embossing and when should you use it?
Perimeter embossing raises a narrow ridge around the key boundary rather than lifting the key face. Use it when the legend needs to stay on a flat surface for print quality and legibility, when you want clear tactile separation between adjacent keys without a pronounced button profile, or when the panel must stay close to flush for cleaning. It is a frequent choice on medical and food service equipment where a wipe-down surface matters.
Does embossing affect how the overlay is cleaned?
Yes, and it is worth deciding deliberately. Raised profiles create edges where cleaning agents, dust and process residue can collect, and heavy embossing makes a surface slightly harder to wipe fully flat. Perimeter embossing is a reasonable compromise where hygiene matters, since the ridge is shallow. In genuinely critical washdown or clean-room environments, a flat non-embossed overlay with tactile domes beneath it is often the better answer.
What materials can be embossed?
Polyester and polycarbonate both emboss well, which is fortunate since they are the dominant overlay materials. Polyester holds embossed detail well and keeps its flex life, which matters on keys actuated frequently. Polycarbonate takes sharp embossed detail and suits pronounced profiles. Material thickness affects achievable height and sharpness, so the emboss specification and the material gauge need to be decided together rather than in sequence.
Does embossing add cost to a graphic overlay?
It adds tooling and an operation. Embossing requires a matched tool made for your specific artwork, so there is a one-time cost that is amortised across the run, plus the added press operation per part. At prototype and low volume the tooling is the dominant factor; at production volume the per-part effect is modest. Because the tool is artwork-specific, it is considerably cheaper to decide on embossing before tooling than to add it to an existing part.
