A recent online article by tech repair service iFixit references the vibration dampening gaskets that are use in the latest Apple MacBook Pro 13” 2016 edition (with no touch bar). In their teardown of this MacBook Pro model, the iFixit team noted the addition of new rubber screw-down gaskets on the speakers, likely added to limit vibration as the new MacBook Pro speakers are significantly louder and offer higher degrees of dynamic range than previous models.
In actual fact, the use of gaskets in electronic devices is much more prevalent than is often appreciated. Besides the use of gaskets to shield against RFI or dampen vibration in electronics, gaskets are often used to provide effective seals in display panels. For example, gaskets made from EPDM, Poron®, silicone or other materials are often used to seal touchscreens and LCD panels and displays, including those used in mobile devices such as cell phones or portable industrial equipment.
Gaskets for Touchscreens and Electronic Displays: Sealing Functions
Gaskets for touchscreens and electronic displays perform the following sealing functions:
Sealing against the ingress of dust, dirt, and moisture. For example, gaskets are used on touchscreens and LCD displays to seal the enclosure at the edge of the viewing area to prevent the entry of dust, dirt or moisture. This function can be particularly important for electronic devices used in outdoor applications, such as bank ATM’s, etc.
Gap closure. Gaskets are often used on electronic devices to fill the gap between the screen or display and the surrounding housing (bezel).
Load distribution. In electronic displays, pressure points are often created between the display and the housing. A gasket can help to distribute the pressure evenly and create a more uniform load around the display.
Shock mitigation and dissipation. Gaskets on electronic devices and displays can offer some protection against mechanical shock.
Cushioning. On touchscreen devices, gaskets can provide back-of-display cushioning against the pressure exerted on the display by users.
Gaskets for Touchscreens and Electronic Displays: Materials
CRG draws upon a variety of materials when creating gaskets for touchscreens and electronic displays. For touchscreen applications where protection against the ingress of dust and moisture are paramount, Poron® urethane foam or neoprene sponge are often used. Where the application is occasional use outdoors, silicone sponge or foam materials are preferred. For constant outdoor use applications, we often recommend closed cell silicone sponge gasketing, and for challenging applications, including severe or extreme service conditions such as low temperature, silicone rubber gasketing. In every case, CRG can work with you to find the optimal material to service your electronic application.
CRG Gaskets for Touchscreens and Electronic Displays
When creating gaskets for touchscreens and electronic displays, CRG uses the latest cutting technology to fabricate gaskets of precise dimensions and tolerances. Precision cutting technologies we use in the fabrication of gaskets for touchscreens and electronic displays include water jet and flex/flash cutting.
CRG has a full service capability and can provide prototypes or cut-to-size samples from customer supplied drawing files. To find out more about how CRG can service your touchscreen or electronic display gasketing needs, please contact our sales department at crg@canadarubbergroup.com.