PCB Plating Thickness Minimum vs Maximum Requirements
Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are an essential part of modern electronics, and their development has been a boon for the technology industry, making electronics smaller and more efficient. PCBs are made up of various layers, and their plating thickness is a crucial factor that affects their performance.
In this blog post, we will discuss the minimum and maximum requirements for PCB plating thickness and the reasons why they matter.
Minimum Requirements
The minimum plating thickness of a PCB is determined by the application requirements. The minimum thickness is usually set to ensure that the copper traces and pads can withstand the rigors of the manufacturing process and the environment in which the PCB will be used.
The standard minimum plating thickness for a PCB is 1 oz, or 35 microns. This thickness is suitable for most applications in the industry, and it can handle most environment stresses. However, there are instances when a thinner plating is required, but these cases are rare.
Maximum Requirements
The maximum plating thickness of a PCB is determined by the manufacturing process and cost considerations. The maximum thickness is usually set to ensure that the copper traces and pads can be etched without causing voids or overhangs, which can cause circuit failures.
The standard maximum plating thickness for a PCB is 2 oz, or 70 microns. This thickness is suitable for most applications and is economical to manufacture. However, there are instances when thicker plating is required, such as with high-power applications or when the purity of the copper is paramount.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the plating thickness of a PCB is a crucial factor that affects the performance and reliability of the circuit. The standard minimum and maximum plating thicknesses of 1 oz and 2 oz, respectively, are suitable for most applications. However, there are instances when thinner or thicker plating is required, and these requirements must be addressed in the design and manufacturing process.
We hope that this has been informative and helps you make better decisions when selecting PCB plating thickness.
References
- DuPont, "PCB Plating Thickness: Minimums and Maximums," https://www.dupont.com/electronic-materials/insights/pcb-plating-thickness-minimums-and-maximums.html
- Advanced Circuits, "PCB Copper Thickness," https://www.4pcb.com/blog/pcb-thickness-101/pcb-copper-thickness