Marine Specifications For User Interfaces

In Marine applications that require a human to machine interface there may be a need for a complete waterproof solution. Keypads or control panels can be made water resistant using the correct design techniques and the proper selection of adhesives.

If your end product needs to withstand this type of environment, you need to make sure you select the correct supplier that can manufacture to these strict requirements.

At a Glance: Marine Specifications

• Marine user interfaces and control panels can be designed with waterproof and water-resistant construction using specialized sealing methods, materials, and adhesive systems for demanding marine environments.
• Epec supports marine applications that require protection against water ingress, salt spray exposure, environmental stress, and electromagnetic interference.
• Designs can be engineered to meet recognized marine and environmental standards for waterproofing, corrosion resistance, environmental testing, and electromagnetic compatibility.

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At Epec, we have experience in both the design and implementation of the following Marine Standards

• ASTMB117 - Marine salt spray – also IP 67 NEMA 6
• IEC 60529 - Ingress Protection (waterproofing)
• IEC 60068 - Environmental Testing
• IEC 60945 - Maritime Navigation and Radio communication Equipment and Systems – General Requirements – Methods of Testing and Required Test Results
• IEC 61000 - Electromagnetic compatibility

Check out our blog post to learn more about designing a membrane switch keypad to be waterproof.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Links

• What makes a user interface suitable for marine applications?
• Can marine control panels be fully waterproof?
• What marine standards can be supported for user interface designs?
• Why is supplier experience important for marine HMI applications?
• What types of applications use marine user interfaces?

What makes a user interface suitable for marine applications?

Marine user interfaces are designed with waterproof or water-resistant construction, environmental sealing, and materials capable of withstanding moisture, salt exposure, and harsh operating conditions.

Can marine control panels be fully waterproof?

Yes. Depending on the application requirements, keypads and control panels can be designed as fully waterproof assemblies using appropriate sealing techniques, adhesives, and enclosure designs.

What marine standards can be supported for user interface designs?

Marine interface solutions can be designed with consideration for standards including ASTM B117 for salt spray testing, IEC 60529 for ingress protection, IEC 60068 for environmental testing, IEC 60945 for maritime equipment requirements, and IEC 61000 for electromagnetic compatibility.

Why is supplier experience important for marine HMI applications?

Marine applications often require strict environmental protection and reliability requirements. Experience with waterproofing methods, material selection, and marine industry standards helps ensure long-term performance in challenging conditions.

What types of applications use marine user interfaces?

Marine user interfaces are commonly used in boat controls, marine navigation equipment, onboard monitoring systems, outdoor control panels, and other applications exposed to water, humidity, and corrosive environments.

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Need a Water-Resistant HMI Solution?

Choose Epec for water-resistant, marine-standard keypads and control panels. Contact us for your marine application needs.

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