What is a Heavy Copper PCB?
A heavy copper PCB is a type of printed circuit board with a copper thickness exceeding 3 ounces per square foot. This thicker copper layer allows for higher current conduction and improved thermal management, making these PCBs ideal for high-power applications. They offer enhanced mechanical strength and durability, especially at plated-through holes and connector sites. Heavy copper PCBs are widely used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and power electronics. The fabrication process involves specialized techniques such as electroplating and etching to achieve the desired copper thickness.
Heavy Copper PCB
Heavy copper PCBs are becoming increasingly popular across various industries due to their superior thermal distribution and mechanical strength. A high copper PCB is a circuit board with a copper thickness of more than 3 oz per square foot, allowing the board to conduct more current and offer enhanced mechanical strength at plated-through holes and connector sites. These attributes make heavy copper printed circuit boards ideal for applications in electronics and electrical circuitry where high power transmission is crucial.
One of the key benefits of heavy copper printed circuit boards is their high heat-sinking capacity. Proper heat management is essential for the performance and longevity of circuitry, and heavy copper flex circuit boards excel in this regard. They effectively handle heat signals, thereby improving the overall performance and durability of the electronics.
The fabrication of heavy copper printed circuit boards involves plating or etching processes to increase the copper thickness on sidewalls and in plated holes. During the printed circuit board fabrication process, heavy copper PCBs undergo electroplating, which thickens the walls of the plated-through holes (PTH) on the PCB. This enhances the board's ability to handle higher currents and mechanical stress.
Several features distinguish heavy copper circuit boards from standard PCBs:
- Copper Weight: The primary distinguishing feature is the weight of copper used per square foot, measured in ounces. Heavy copper PCB boards typically have copper weights exceeding 3 oz per square foot.
- Outer Layers: The external copper layers start with copper foil, and the copper weight is preset for standard designs.
- Inner Layers: The copper mass of the inner layers and the dielectric thickness are predefined for standard projects but can be adjusted to meet bespoke project needs.
We are a full-service provider of heavy copper printed circuit boards, widely utilized across various industrial sectors. Our well-organized process, advanced technology, latest equipment, and expert team ensure we meet all your requirements for heavy copper PCB projects.
Capabilities of Heavy Copper Printed Circuit Boards
At Technotronix, we are fully equipped to offer you heavy copper PCBs. Our capabilities include:
- Maximum Number of Layers = 20
- Laminates = FR-4 (All Tg Ranges), Teflon, Ceramic
- Finished Thickness = 0.020" - 0.275"
- Green, Blue, Red, Black, Clear and White Solder Masks & Legend Inks
- Minimum Solder mask Clearance = 6 mils
- Minimum Solder Dam Width = 5.5 mils
- Hot Air Solder Leveling (HASL)
- Immersion Gold (ENIG) & Immersion Silver
- Blind & Buried Vias
- Minimum Drill Bit Hole Size = 0.012"
- Minimum Holes Size = 0.008" +0.005"/-0.008"
- Maximum Hole Aspect Ratio = 10:1
- Maximum Copper Weight = 6 oz. (UL Approved)
- Controlled Impedance = +/- 10%
- Minimum Silkscreen Line Width = 8 mils
Benefits of Heavy Copper PCB
The benefits of heavy copper PCBs include:
Great Thermal Distribution:
High copper PCBs offer high thermal resistance, making them ideal for applications demanding high speed and high frequency. This attribute ensures efficient heat management and enhances the performance of electronic devices.
Improved Mechanical Strength:
The improved mechanical strength of heavy copper PCBs ensures that the electrical system remains durable and robust. This increased strength is crucial for maintaining the integrity and reliability of the system under various conditions.
Good Conductor:
High copper circuit boards are excellent conductors, making them highly suitable for use in electronics. Their ability to handle higher currents efficiently improves the overall functionality of electronic devices.
Onboard Heat Sink:
High copper boards feature an onboard heat sink, which is essential for managing heat generated by high-power applications. This onboard capability helps in maintaining optimal operating temperatures.
Heat Dissipation:
Heavy copper PCBs excel in dissipating excess heat, preventing overheating. Effective heat dissipation is vital for maintaining the longevity and performance of electronic components.
Our PCB fabrication process ensures that high copper PCBs meet the stringent requirements of various industrial applications. With advanced technology and expert craftsmanship, we deliver high-quality PCBs that offer superior thermal distribution, mechanical strength, and conductivity.
Application of Heavy Copper Circuit Boards
On account of the above benefits, heavy copper PCBs find application in a range of industries including but not limited to:
UPS Systems
Automotive
Nuclear Power
Electrical Power Distribution
Welding Equipment
Solar Power Convertors
HVAC Systems
Renewable energies & storage pumping plants
Hydro-electric plants
Weapons control systems
Radar systems
Technotronix Advantage as a Heavy Copper PCB Manufacturer
At Technotronix, we bring over four decades of experience in fabricating and assembling a wide variety of PCBs. Our state-of-the-art equipment and team of experienced professionals ensure that you receive high-quality products and services, giving you peace of mind knowing you're in good hands.
Partnering with us means accessing a rich body of industry best practices that provide you with a competitive edge. Heavy Copper PCB manufacturing, in particular, requires a high degree of skill, as improper handling during the manufacturing process can lead to poor performance. Our expertise ensures that you avoid such pitfalls. We also support you at the crucial prototyping stage, minimizing the need for redesigns through our in-depth knowledge and precise execution. Given that lead times for heavy copper laminates can be longer, we prioritize getting the job done right the first time to save you time and resources.
Our Design for Manufacturing (DFM) services are integral to avoiding costly errors down the line. We meticulously review and optimize your designs to ensure seamless fabrication and assembly processes. This proactive approach helps maintain the integrity and functionality of your PCBs, reducing the risk of issues during production and deployment.
In addition to prototyping, we are fully equipped to handle large production runs, meeting all your volume requirements efficiently. Our comprehensive capabilities as a leading PCB fabrication company enable us to deliver consistent quality, regardless of order size.
To get started, simply contact our team with your bespoke requirements. Our experienced professionals will provide a custom quote and ensure that your PCBs are fabricated to meet your exact specifications. We are committed to delivering all of this at the most cost-effective prices, ensuring your project remains competitive in the market.
At Technotronix, we pride ourselves on being a premier provider of printed circuit board fabrication services. Our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that you receive the best possible solutions for your PCB needs.
FAQs
Do you have any heavy copper PCB requirements? Request a free quote. Alternatively, email BoM, Gerber files, and other required details at [email protected] or call us 714/630-9200.
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