How to protect your HMI against salt?

Metal solutions are a robust and aesthetic design option. However, salt water can make the metal rust, which makes it fragile and easier to break under pressure or under impact.
The rough surface of the corroded panel is also a safety hazard. The sharp edges can lead to cuts and the uneven surface provides a great place for bacteria to grow.
Rust can also change the shape of the key and thus block the mechanism.
Furthermore, markings can also be impacted making operating the application more complicated and less efficient.

When salt settles on a surface it creates a layer that can cover up markings and block keys. This can render the application unusable.

Metal is still a good option. It is, however, of utmost importance to use high-grade stainless steel or aluminum for your solution to make sure it is protected against corrosion.

Furthermore, you want as little space between the keys and the front panel as possible so the salt cannot enter. Limited room for salt to settle will also result in salt grains falling off the button once the key is activated.