language

Thick Copper PCB

2020-03-23

Thick Copper PCB

Thick copper PCB is usually used in high current outputs because of the thickness of the copper, which ranges between 105 to 400 micrometers. With the thickness, high current loads, and heat dissipation are optimal. The designs of these boards vary, but most of them have multiple layers or double layers to make the base more reliable. The copper is usually used together with a substrate that makes it more ideal for wiring. The etching and plating techniques also differ depending on where the printed cover board will be used. Sometimes the outer layers will be thin with the inner ones being thick copper.

Thick Copper PCB

Thick copper PCB design

The design of the board determines the functionality of the thick copper PCB. This is why more attention is paid to the design process. Failure to design the board well could result in thermal stress and low-quality performance of the board. Some of the essential factors that must be considered during the design; therefore, include levels of copper fills between the inner layers when the board has multiple layers. Failure to get the correct levels will result in voids appearing between the different layers, which will, in turn, result in delamination. Another factor is the software. The type of prepregs used, as well as the numbers, should work together with the software to ensure the multilayer design is appropriately accomplished. The galvanic coating should also have the right thickness to ensure that the mechanical strength is optimal. Since the copper layers contribute to the thickness of the printed circuit board, solder resist layers should be used to protect mosaic edges.

Apart from these guidelines, the production process should also have enough cycles since too much can make the PCB board weaker. Etching or plating and ideal methods of ensuring the thickness of the thick copper PCB is fabricated. The fabrication process can also turn out to be problematic if not done correctly, especially where solder masks are concerned. Other than having multiple solder masks printed, the board can also be printed by making the substrates first then filling them with solder masks. These are the only screen prints options applicable since the electrostatic spraying cannot be implemented.

Thick copper PCB assembly

Attain the required thickness of the thick copper PCB. The copper sheet is pre-laminated on to fiberglass sheet to acquire a uniform thickness. The board is then drilled before copper is plated inside the holes. Depending on the number of layers the board will have, the plating can be done before etching. In such scenarios, the copper can be detached for the plating. This is done selectively depending on the metal used. Although the design and assembly of thick copper PCB are similar to that of other multilayered PCBs, the former is made with plating and etching methods, and that is where the differences arise.

Applications

Although printed copper boards were initially used in military and defense applications, their applications have continued to increase over time since the board doesn’t overheat the devices it is used in. The boards are now used in the automotive industry, especially in signal systems, storage pumping plants, and planar transformers. Their ability to convert pulses helps reduce winding leak inductance, thereby making them perfect for use in the production of small transformers.

Demand for thick copper PCB has continued to be on the rise, due to reliability of the board and its ability to manage thermal conduction properly. Since the current demands require that devices pass-heavy currents when being used, a lot of heat is usually produced in the process. Having a circuit board that dissipates that heat efficiently is therefore crucial in making sure the devices continue to operate as intended. Other application areas of the thick copper PCB include torque controls, UPS systems, HVAC systems, overload relays, and protection relays. The board can also be used in household equipment and medical equipment.

Benefits of thick copper PCB

Thermal endurance

Since heat can easily damage the circuit board and the systems, they are used in, having a board that can endure the heat is essential. This is one of the benefits of thick copper PCB and one of the reasons for its wide range application. With this feature, the boards can perform reliably even in harsh conditions like when there are high-temperature fluctuations.

High current conduction

When thick copper boards are used, there will always be a smooth flow of current within the system. The ability to conduct high current ensures that the current isn’t cut prematurely before reaching another section of the system.

Mechanical strength

If you’re concerned about durability, thick copper circuit boards should be your ideal choice. This is another reason why it is preferred in robust systems. Durability is found in PTH holes and the connector sites that contribute to the strength and robustness of the board. The different materials used on the board also contribute to the mechanical and functional characteristics of the board.

Ease of use

Thick copper PCB doesn’t just remove the complex configuration of the wires. It also increases the ease with which the circuit board can be implemented in complex switches, including the smaller ones. This simplicity results in a lightweight and easily portable boards that re perfect for the smallest applications like metal bars.

Better performance

The fact that thick copper circuit boards can support exotic materials without affecting the performance of the components is another benefit. Also, the boards can maintain the required temperature of larger components to ensure performance continues. An onboard heat sink is also another great feature of these boards as it ensures that mosaic surfaces remain in perfect condition during assembling.

Getting thick copper PCB from the right company

The production of thick copper PCB will determine the number of benefits you’ll get to experience, and that’s why you should work with our company. We pay attention to the design and production process, including the assembly stage, to ensure that our thick copper circuit boards surpass the expected standards. Our boards guarantee the reliability, optimal performance, and consistency, factors that are very important regardless of the application area of the circuit board. Whether you want to use the circuit in CNC cutting, laser cutting, welding, grinding, and mold forming, among others, our copper circuit boards will help you achieve your goals.