Improving longevity of rubber keypad (access control etc...) 1

[bithkits]

How can the life span of a silicone rubber keypad, as used for access control systems, be improved? These are exterior control panels but are sealed against all elements except temperature changes and sunlight.

I assume one way would be to reduce the stroke? Would it be advisable to go for a higher material hardness?

Typical problems are carbon contact wear and rubber degradation/tearing at the areas that flex with button depressions.

All ideas are welcome and kindly appreciated!

Adriaan.
I am a Mechatronics Engineer from South Africa.

http://www.martin-electronics.co.za

 

[tom1953]

Maybe a material that's better for abrasion resistance and tearing, like urethane, would give longer life than silicone (which isn't known for either of these properties)