Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum

Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: tsaylor on September 18, 2011, 03:54:30 am

Title: Control Panel lamination, how durable?
Post by: tsaylor on September 18, 2011, 03:54:30 am

I'm getting to the stage of printing my graphics now (Back to the Arcade) -- Yay!  I'd been planning to have my control panel art printed by GameOnGrafix, where they use polycarbinate laminate which is said to be very tough and durable.  But I've also had some printing done by Basement Arcade Grafx (darkkniyt), and have been very happy with his work and pricing.  He uses Emerytex laminate, which is also said to be durable but perhaps less than polycarbinate.

So, my question is about the comparison between those two options (polycarbinate vs Emerytex laminates).  Anyone out there seen both options and know which is more durable, and whether the difference is significant?  Or would the Emerytex be plenty durable for normal home arcade use?  I'm planning on using the laminated control panel art as-is (no plexiglass or other covering).

Title: Re: Control Panel lamination, how durable?
Post by: leapinlew on September 18, 2011, 07:58:33 am

I have both. They are both fine, if there is any difference between them I can't feel/see it.

Title: Re: Control Panel lamination, how durable?
Post by: Blanka on September 18, 2011, 09:49:58 am

How does it look. Polycarbonate sounds glossy to me. We print with solvent inks (stable colours for a long time) and cover up with anti-scratch fine grain matte laminate. It feels much like the original panels.

Title: Re: Control Panel lamination, how durable?
Post by: leapinlew on September 18, 2011, 12:04:49 pm

Quote from: Blanka on September 18, 2011, 09:49:58 am

How does it look. Polycarbonate sounds glossy to me. We print with solvent inks (stable colours for a long time) and cover up with anti-scratch fine grain matte laminate. It feels much like the original panels.

I wish it were more glossy, but it looks good. Let me find a pic.

Title: Re: Control Panel lamination, how durable?
Post by: leapinlew on September 18, 2011, 12:06:47 pm

This is from my tempest - from Mamemarquees (now known as Gameongraffix)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51525.0;attach=103760;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51525.0;attach=103762;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51525.0;attach=103768;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51525.0;attach=103770;image)

Title: Re: Control Panel lamination, how durable?
Post by: tsaylor on September 18, 2011, 05:52:50 pm

Quote from: leapinlew on September 18, 2011, 07:58:33 am

I have both. They are both fine, if there is any difference between them I can't feel/see it.

Thanks leapinlew, just what I wanted to hear.  It sounds like the Emerytex laminate will be durable enough for me.