Heavy Copper PCB
Heavy copper pcbs can carry higher currents and reduce power loss due to the copper’s high conductivity. They can also be fabricated with thinner copper traces, reducing the layers and lowering cost.
This PCB type has a long history in military and aerospace applications and is poised to expand into other sectors. To produce a successful heavy copper board, a close relationship between the designer and fabricator is key.
High Current Capacity
High current PCBs require thicker copper layers than standard circuit boards to pass heavy loads. This increased thickness allows the copper to dissipate heat more effectively, avoiding overheating and ensuring the longevity of the board’s components. This is particularly important for electronic devices that are exposed to harsh environments, such as aircraft.
The higher current density in heavy copper PCBs means that it’s necessary to use advanced etching techniques and plating processes. Standard etching methods don’t work well with heavy copper and can result in over-etching, uneven edges, and other problems. However, if you choose the right etching and plating techniques, you can create a high-performance PCB that will meet your application’s requirements.
Another benefit of heavy copper PCBs is that they can support much higher currents than standard FR-4 boards. This is due to the increased thermal conductivity of the copper and the fact that it’s plated much thicker than traditional traces. In addition, they can also be designed with solderable copper bus bars that can carry large amounts of current without generating excess heat.
These types of PCBs are ideal for power converters, heat indulgence, and planer transformers. They’re also used in military equipment, solar heavy copper pcb panels, automotive products, and welding plants. They’re more in demand as a result of the need for high-performance, long-lasting PCBs.
High Temperature Capability
Thick copper PCBs are capable of handling high-temperature conditions. They are often used in power devices and power supply systems because they can carry more current than regular circuit boards. High currents generate heat that must be dissipated or else the equipment may be damaged. The thicker copper of heavy copper PCBs allows for better heat dissipation, especially when paired with copper plating. The thicker copper also reduces the resistance of copper traces, which allows for higher currents.
To achieve this, the substrate must be chosen carefully. Designers must consider the copper’s thickness, temperature increment, and trace width. They should also observe the relationship between copper and the substrate’s thermal expansion to avoid cracking and stress on the substrate.
In addition, the substrate must be able to handle the high-temperature conditions. It should have a glass transition temperature of 130 degrees Celsius or above. The board must also be able to resist corrosive substances, such as salt, moisture, and chemicals.
Unlike standard circuits, which are made through a series of processes, thick copper PCBs require more complex etching and hole drilling techniques. These include differential etching and step plating, which allow for finer differences between copper layers and smoother sidewalls. The process Heavy Copper PCB Supplier is more difficult than etching conventional copper, but it ensures the highest quality product. Moreover, it helps the manufacturer to make a robust and reliable circuit board that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
High Density
Heavy copper PCBs are ideal for use in applications that require a high current capacity and optimization of thermal management. Its thick copper plating allows large PCB-cross-sections and encourages heat dissipation, while allowing designers to keep structures simple and strong. It also provides a greater level of resistance to current overloads, improving reliability in the long term.
The copper’s high heat conduction capabilities allow it to pull heat away from the temperature-sensitive components on a board, reducing failure rates and maintaining performance in harsh conditions. This can be especially beneficial for military and aerospace products, power adapters and thermal regulators. In addition to increased electrical conductivity, heavy copper has a lower melting point, allowing it to be used with a wider range of substrate materials.
A higher copper density is a major benefit for high-density PCB designs, as it can reduce the number of layers and lead to a more compact product size. It can also improve the strength of connections at connector sites. However, this is only possible if there is adequate spacing between copper features on the circuit board.
Using a trace width calculator can help you determine the minimum space between copper features on your PCB. The tool takes three inputs: the current capacity, the maximum temperature rise and the trace width. It then calculates the required amount of space between copper features on your PCB to ensure that it can withstand the necessary current load.
High Reliability
A heavy copper PCB has the ability to withstand more current levels than standard circuit boards. This is due to the increased copper thickness and reduced resistance within the conductive path. It is also capable of dissipating heat effectively and reducing I2R losses, which in turn lowers failure rates. This makes it ideal for military and aerospace applications, including power regulators and power adapters.
However, it is important to note that the fabrication process of a heavy copper PCB requires specialized equipment. This is because it requires significant plating and etching thicknesses. It is recommended to consult with your fabricator early on in the design process so they can help you create a reliable, high-quality board.
One of the most crucial considerations when designing a heavy copper PCB is the current carrying capacity. The designer must consider the copper weight, trace width and maximum temperature rise in order to ensure the board can withstand the required current levels. It is also necessary to take into account the thermal properties of the substrate material. It should have a low coefficient of expansion to avoid cracking or layer separation and a high glass transition temperature to handle the mechanical stresses of plated holes.
It is also important to take into account the layout of the components on a heavy copper PCB. It is important to place the components away from mechanical stress points, such as mounting holes and corners. This will protect the integrity of the copper and prevent mechanical damage to the board.