I followed some of the recent discussion on silkscreen processes with
interest but am interested in extending the discussion in a slightly
different direction.

I currently have front panels made by a silkscreen process but the setup
costs are rather high for low volume and prototype articles.
The process involves silkscreening onto the reverse side of a polycarbonate
sheet about 10mil to 20mil thick. A layer of Scotch 467 adhesive is then
added. The finished product has a matt finish on the front, and is UV and
scratch resistant.

I am investigating different methods of producing comparable quality panels
for prototypes. The current most plausible technique will involve inkjet
printing to either a photo quality paper or polymer sheet and then
laminating that sheet with a matt finish laminating film or pouch. These
films seem to be manufactured in a variety of types/finishes/techniques.
Some have adhesive backs already. The major problem (at the moment) is
trying to source the products (in Australia).

That issue aside, I was wondering if anyone had tried something similar or
had other brilliant ideas for producing front panels with a minimum of fuss,
effort and expense.


Regards,

David Sincock
TDS Software Solutions Pty Ltd
sincockd@senet.com.au

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