Heavy Copper PCB
Heavy copper pcb is used when high current designs require thicker copper traces than normal printed circuit boards. The heavier copper helps with power transmission and heat dissipation.
The ability to withstand recurrent thermal cycling that could destroy a standard PCB in seconds is another advantage. But there are many factors to consider before a designer starts on a heavy copper layout.
High Temperature Resistance
Heavy copper pcb is designed to withstand high temperature and harsh environments. It can also support a wide range of circuits and switches in a limited space. It can also accommodate large current levels and provides great thermal distribution.
The maximum current-carrying capacity of a copper PCB depends on the amount of heat it can tolerate. The transited heat is dissipated from the copper via conduction and convection. This method of transferring heat prevents the traces from reaching their melting point. The designer can determine the maximum current that a trace can carry by calculating its temperature rise. A rule of thumb in the industry is that a trace should be able to bear at least 50% of its current-carrying capacity before it reaches its melting point.
A heavy copper PCB can sustain a high current level and maintain its quality even at higher temperatures. It can also handle recurrent thermal cycles without failure. In addition, it is highly resistant to electrical conductivity changes. These features make it an excellent choice for harsh environment applications.
Heavy copper PCBs are more expensive than standard ones because they use thicker copper. They heavy copper pcb are also harder to blend because of their larger size and greater plating thickness. Moreover, they require more time and chemicals to manufacture. However, if you know the specific requirements for your product, a thick copper PCB can be an excellent option for you.
High Current Capacity
PCBs are often used in power circuits that require high current output. Heavy copper PCBs can handle large current levels with high endurance to thermal strain. This is because of the thick copper, which allows larger PCB-cross-sections for high current loads and encourages heat dissipation. These boards also have better signal integrity than conventional circuits.
In order to design a heavy copper PCB, it is important to gauge the amount of current a board will need. This can be done using a tool that determines three parameters: trace width, current capacity and temperature rise. In addition to the copper thickness, the substrate material must be suitable for handling the increased current.
Heavy copper PCBs are usually made with solderable copper bus bars, which can carry the majority of the current. These bars are much thicker than traces on standard PCBs and can be soldered to pads with an order of magnitude greater draft than regular traces. In addition, these bars can take an order of magnitude more current than a single layer of a standard PCB.
These features make heavy copper PCBs ideal for use in military and aerospace applications, where the ability to withstand high temperatures is essential. Heavy copper is also ideal for high-speed applications, as the increased thickness of the copper traces increases their speed and performance. The copper’s ability to conduct heat also increases the stability of the circuit.
High Flexibility
Heavy copper PCBs are a great option for high current applications. They support higher critical current densities than standard boards, and they can withstand more extreme temperatures for longer periods. These circuit boards are typically used in power converters and planar transformers. They have more space for traces and can support amps in the triple digits.
To achieve the best results, you should use a PCB manufacturer with experience in working with heavy copper. This way, you can get a flawless project that meets all your specifications. You should also check the manufacturer’s certifications and international certificates. You can even visit their manufacturing area to see how they work.
Unlike traditional PCBs, heavy copper PCBs have more surface area. They are usually fabricated in multi-layers and come with detailed exterior layers. In addition, they feature a layer of prepreg to form an insulating base for the internal layers. This type of board can be made in a variety of substrates, including FR4 and flex.
When using a heavy copper PCB, you should make sure the traces are as short as possible to reduce resistance and heat generation. In addition, you should avoid over-etching in the margins and uneven edges. Moreover, you should use advanced etching techniques that allow for a smoother etch and better performance. Besides, you should consider adding solderable copper bus bars to support large currents.
High Strength
A heavy copper PCB offers high strength and is suitable for a range of applications. Its thickness allows it to withstand higher current levels than standard PCBs, and it can handle various temperature conditions and special environmental environments. In addition, it has a high tolerance to mechanical stress, which is critical in preventing circuit failure.
The thickness of a heavy copper PCB also increases its thermal conductivity. As a result, it can dissipate heat more quickly Heavy Copper PCB Supplier than a regular PCB, which is essential for high-end devices. This feature is especially important for long-term use. Moreover, the high current capacity of heavy copper PCBs makes them suitable for power distribution and planar transformers.
When designing a circuit board with heavy copper, it is important to consider the size of the trace and pad sizes. It is recommended to consult with a PCB fabricator early in the design process. The fabricator can ensure that the copper thickness and trace width are appropriate for the device’s requirements.
Thick copper PCBs are often used for high-current applications and for optimizing thermal management. In addition, they can be designed with a variety of layer counts and footprints. They can also feature a high-density layout and include complex switches. These features make them ideal for a wide range of applications, from simple consumer electronics to military-grade equipment.
