Material Choices
We offer two main material types for our switch panels; 3mm Traffolyte or 3/5/8mm cast acrylic (normally Perspex). We can provide other materials, for example engraved 316 stainless steel, on request.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Traffolyte (3mm) | Cast Acrylic plus UV Printing (3/5/8mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Stiffness | 3mm: very high; rigid phenolic laminate | 3 mm: flexible 5 mm: significantly stiffer 8 mm: extremely stiff |
| UV Resistance | Adequate in partial shade; may fade in strong sun | Good; acrylic is UV‑stable, ink can fade over time in direct sunlight |
| Salt & Moisture Resistance | In rare cases, can absorb moisture at edges | Fully non‑porous and salt‑resistant |
| Graphics | Two‑colour engraving (additional colour fills available on request) | Full‑colour UV printing |
| Surface Protection | Engraving is permanent | Printed surface exposed to environment |
| Appearance | Functional, limited colour palette (contrasting core colour visible). Available in matt and gloss finishes. | Wide range or colours. Also available in matt ang gloss finishes. |
| Fabrication | CNC‑engraved (laser engraving available on request) | Laser‑cut with clean edges |
| Outdoor Lifespan | May fade over time | Acrylic will last for many years, but printed surface may weather |
| Cost | Slightly higher | Slightly lower |
Stiffness and Structural Behaviour
Traffolyte
- Very stiff due to its phenolic construction
- Holds shape well on flat helm panels
- Suitable where a rigid, non‑flexing panel is preferred
Cast Acrylic (e.g. Perspex)
3 mm Acrylic
- Flexes easily
- Can bend under its own weight on larger panels
- Best for small panels or where some flex is acceptable
5 mm Acrylic
- Much stiffer and closer to Traffolyte in feel
- Still has a small amount of flex compared to phenolic laminate
8 mm Acrylic
- Extremely stiff
- Suitable for larger helm panels
Performance in Marine Conditions
UV Exposure
- Traffolyte: Can fade in strong sunlight over time.
- Acrylic (Front‑Printed): Acrylic is UV‑stable; printed graphics may fade over time in strong sunlight.
Saltwater & Moisture
- Traffolyte: Edges may gradually absorb moisture.
- Acrylic: Fully non‑porous; printed surface may require occasional cleaning.
Graphics and Legibility
Traffolyte
- Limited to two‑layer engraving
- Best for simple text and symbols
- Colour filling to add additional colours available on request
Acrylic with UV Printing
- Full‑colour graphics, icons, and branding
- High resolution
- Printed surface is exposed, so abrasion and UV exposure should be considered
Colours
Traffolyte
Traffolyte is available in a limited number of colours:
Acrylic
Available in a wide range of colours.
Cost
- Traffolyte: Slightly more expensive that Acrylic.
- Acrylic: Slightly cheaper than Traffolyte.
Summary
- Traffolyte: Very stiff, simple engraving, slightly higher cost, suitable for rigid panels in sheltered or semi‑sheltered areas.
- 3 mm Acrylic: Flexible, good for small panels or curved surfaces, offers full‑colour graphics.
- 5 mm Acrylic: Stiffer and more robust, with the benefit of full‑colour printing.
- 8 mm Acrylic: Extremely stiff, suitable for larger helm panels, also with the benefit of full‑colour printing.