CNC Machined Optically Clear Custom Hard Coated Polycarbonate

Precision Materials, Advanced Printing, and Durable Assembly

A leading equipment manufacturer approached JN White to develop a highly specialized control panel component for use in rugged environments. What made this project unique was not just the performance requirements, but the combination of custom materials, advanced coatings, and a layered manufacturing process that demanded precision at every step.

How JN White® Helped

At the core of this part was a custom-imported polycarbonate substrate from Japan—1.5mm thick, engineered to function both as a display lens and as a high-clarity, scratch-resistant graphic overlay. To enhance performance, the material was finished with PMR1 hard coat, known for its abrasion and chemical resistance, weather durability, and easy-to-clean surface. Often used in automotive and electronic display applications, PMR coatings ensure long-term clarity and toughness in demanding environments.

From there, our team added multiple layers of functionality through careful printing and finishing:

  • Sub-Surface Printing: Yellow, black, and white graphics were applied beneath the surface for lasting protection, followed by a black custom tracking barcode on the reverse side.
  • UV-Cured Texturing: A selective texture was added to the front surface to further boost scratch and chemical resistance while reducing glare from sunlight and finger printing—critical for outdoor readability.
  • Custom Adhesive Application: To mount the panel, we used a cost-competitive Necal adhesive (a 3M VHB alternative). The adhesive was selectively die-cut and applied to reveal dead-front icons and display windows, balancing bonding strength with cost efficiency.

Due to the thickness of the material, we finished each part using CNC machining for both the perimeter and internal features. This process not only allowed us to achieve the tight tolerances required but also gave the edges a smooth, rounded finish.

From Material Selection to Finished Assembly

What began as a request for a single high-performance component grew into a full demonstration of JN White’s strengths:

  • Material Expertise: Pairing thick-gauge polycarbonate with advanced PMR coatings for clarity and strength.
  • Durability Engineering: Combining coatings, UV textures, and adhesive solutions to maximize resistance and readability while maintaining competitiveness.
  • Precision Finishing: CNC machining for tight tolerances where traditional die cutting or laser cutting was not possible.
  • Value Engineering: Offering competitive alternatives like Necal adhesive to reduce cost without compromising performance.

The Result

JN White delivered a control panel assembly that met the customer’s needs for clarity, durability, and seamless integration with their system. Specifically, the customer benefited from:

  • High-quality, optically clear display lens with industry-leading scratch resistance
  • Improved outdoor readability thanks to anti-glare surface texturing
  • Long-lasting protection against chemicals, abrasion, and weather exposure
  • Cost-effective bonding solution with selective adhesive application
  • Tight-tolerance machining for a professional finish

This project demonstrates how advanced material sourcing, layered printing techniques, and thoughtful process engineering can come together to create a component that performs flawlessly in rugged environments.

See What Our Customers Are Saying

"JN White has consistently demonstrated a high level of responsiveness and collaborative engagement in the process of rescheduling orders, which has significantly contributed to maintaining excellent customer service"
Bouheng L., Medical Device
"After brainstorming some innovative ideas and doing a few trial runs, JN White was able to do the complete operation at their facility. The results were excellent - higher quality at reduced cost. Love doing business with the friendly and innovative staff at JN White."
Roger W., Building Technology
"It was a very good experience because my contacts were very knowledgeable and they provided the exact material for my decals that I was envisioning. I found them very helpful and will definitely use them again for future projects.
Paula G, Machinery & Equipment Manufacturing
"The quality of your work is second to none. We really appreciate you being a supplier of our critical components."
Roger W., Home Products
"JN White's sales & engineering staff were quite helpful in rounding out cost & engineering details for a quality end product at the right price."
John S., Information Technology
"I highly recommend JN White for any overlay needs. Every order with them has been professional, easy to order from start to end, and the product quality has been outstanding."
Brian C., Power Electronics
"JN White was very accommodating and was able to expedite my order when requested, allowing my production to continue without interruption"
Gary N., Building Technology
"JN White has been exceptional in working with our company in order to develop the look and feel of our new MRI patient worn transmitter. We had originally worked with a prior manufacturer for an earlier version of this product with much less desirable results. JN White delivered a clean professional product at a very reasonable price on time!"
Gary P., Medical
"We had very little information to work with and Jessica James made it nearly effortless on our end to get us exactly what we needed in a timely manner."
Lexi W., Industrial Equipment
"Getting any after-market graphic overlays done always has a certain risk factor in getting it all right. You guys were helpful, patient, & knowledgeable to achieve the best end result. Even pointing out some things that might be [an] oversight or [areas for] improvements. The outcome was perfect."
John S., Technology
"The print task was between the USA and Australia and everything went so smooth. I submitted a drawing, got a return email for me to confirm what I wanted. Even though this was over the Christmas period the print was waiting for me when I got back to work after the holidays. Great job and thanks."
Matt C., Military
"All of the folks there at JN White that I have talked to and dealt with have been very nice and professional."
Vern L., Industrial
"Customer service is wonderful. Receive confirmations and responses in a timely manner. Product has great quality."
Sara H., Medical
"It has been a pleasure working with JN White. We switched suppliers for some of our products to your company and you have given us higher quality. Excellent work!"
Roger W., Education
"I feel confident that JN White will do my order correctly."
Marie P., Government
"I found working with Sara to be a pleasant experience. We were trying to dial in the color to get just the right look on the printed substrate...Sara sent us a sample print sheet that had several variations, up and down, from the colors we specified, which allowed me to pick exactly the color we wanted. The end result product is perfect!"
Don M., Safety
"Our department has used JN White for a number of years for our inspection labels. They always respond very quickly when we contact them to place an order and communication is great with any questions we have. Highly recommend them."
Jim R., Government
"Easy process and great people to work with."
Richard Z., Military
"I'm very satisfied with your service. Always looking forward to bring the best!"
Ramses Z., Medical Devices
"JN White is very responsive to their customers. Product is delivered as expected...and they provide quality products. They have a clear understanding of the obstacles facing US based customers regarding the entire supply chain."
Bob M., Point of Sale
"We always deal with Steve Matacz. He is the best at making sure all details are perfect. Timely communication with any questions we have."
Paul A., Recreational
"Customer response time is one of the best; always prompt and helpful. On-time performance the last 12 months is 100%."
RoseMarie C., Utilities
"Customer service, quality and lead time are great! No complaints."
Sara H., Medical Devices