Russian keyboards are now cast, not printed. The "Rosel" holding, part of Rostec, has mastered the production of silicone membrane keyboards using a technology previously not applied in the Russian Federation at an industrial level. Details were disclosed by the state corporation's press service.
Instead of 3D printing, the enterprise uses high-pressure molding of silicone rubber with stationary molds. This allows for the production of large series of products.
Silicone rubber was chosen for production due to its resistance to temperature changes, moisture, and chemicals. The enterprise's specialists independently selected the material composition and optimized the technological process parameters.
The first products were keyboards for laptops with thin membranes. A pilot batch has already been manufactured and is now undergoing the final stages of processing – painting and laser marking.
Serial production is planned to be launched by the end of 2026. "Rosel" added that the enterprise will be able to produce batches from 1 to 10 thousand units.
In addition to computer equipment, such silicone components are in demand in medical equipment, as the material used is certified for medical applications and approved for contact with food products.
Kazan-based company "Umbrella Silicon" plans to launch its own production of silicone rubber by 2027, reducing dependence on Chinese raw materials. For now, domestic enterprises, including "Rosel", are forced to independently select material compositions and refine technological parameters.