MATERIAL GUIDE

Choosing 1.6 mm or 3.6 mm control-panel laminate

The correct thickness depends mainly on how the finished fascia is supported, its overall size and the number of cut-outs.

Open the control-panel designer Ask us to check your application

1.6 mm — supported overlay

Best for a low-profile fascia fixed to a rigid metal, plastic or timber backing.
Useful when replacing an existing thin faceplate or covering a sound original panel.
Lighter and easier to bond over a continuous, flat surface.
Not intended to bridge wide unsupported gaps or act as a structural enclosure.

3.6 mm — standard substantial panel

The default choice for most new control panels.
More rigid around switches, lamps and moderate cut-outs.
Better suited to panels fitted with mounting holes or where the backing is not continuous.
Often preferred for wheelhouses, workshops, machinery and vehicle dashboards.

Important design checks

Large panels, narrow bridges between holes and heavy components may still need a rigid backing or additional supports, regardless of laminate thickness. The laminate is a fascia and identification material—not a load-bearing structural enclosure.

The lettering is laser engraved through the contrasting surface layer rather than printed on top. Outdoor-weatherable engraving laminates are made for uses including exterior signage, control panels, equipment identification and safety signage; durability still depends on the exact material grade, mounting and exposure.

Manufacturer guidance describes front-engraved two-ply material as a cap layer removed to reveal a contrasting core. Outdoor-weatherable grades are designed for normal exterior conditions, but no plastic remains colourfast indefinitely in every marine, chemical or high-UV environment.

Example material specification Engraving-material glossary