What is a Graphic Overlay ?

When designing a graphic overlay for your next project, several factors should be considered to achieve optimal appearance and performance.

• What are the service temperature and exposure requirements? Will they be used around extreme temperatures or chemicals? Are they exposed to direct sunlight?
• What is the most suitable material and thickness? Do they need to fit within a certain area or behind a bezel? Materials include PVC, Polycarbonate or Polyester in a variety of thicknesses and finishes.
• Is a particular surface texture required? Gloss / Matte / Velvet
• Are surface treatments such as scratch resistance, anti-glare, U.V. protection or embossing required?
• Do you need clear or colored transparent windows?
• Are special shapes and/or cutouts required? Do you need individual labels or a sheet “kit” of multiple labels for a single piece of equipment?
• Adhesive type is determined by the material the overlay is applied to as well as temperature and exposure requirements. Different materials require specific adhesives to insure a proper bond.
• Are there areas such as behind a clear window or over a sensor that need to be free of adhesive? The adhesive can be die cut prior to application to prevent contamination.
• What quantities will be required? What type of graphics are required?  These are important questions that will help determine if a digital or analog process would be most effective in achieving your goals.