What is an Aluminium PCB?
Aluminum PCBs are best for applications that generate too much heat. The thermal envelope effectively dissipates heat. Most high-power circuit designs are manufactured on aluminum PCBs because they dissipate more heat than usual circuits. Aluminum PCBs are specifically designed for power converter applications, but LED application manufacturers have recently become more interested in using them due to their amazing heat dissipation capabilities.
Aluminum PCB benefits
Aluminum PCB has various advantages over other PCB types. The benefits provided by aluminum PCB are.
Cost-effectiveness
Aluminum PCB provides heat dissipation function, which can save heat dissipation budget. Since aluminum is naturally extracted, unlike most PCB types, it can be recycled and is cheap.
Environmental friendly
Unfortunately, certain PCB types are toxic and they can adversely affect our environment. The synthetic materials used in the manufacturing process are not safe for the health of consumers.
However, aluminum is a natural element, and its PCB is safe and will not harm the environment.
Efficient heat dissipation
Some components will dissipate heat and their heat radiation may damage their manufacturing. Especially in the case of power ICs, components such as LEDs generate heat as high as hundreds of degrees Celsius. This heat is enough to melt the components and damage the PCB.
Aluminum is an effective heat conductor, it can dissipate the heat radiation of these components and keep it cool.
Durability
Ordinary fiberglass boards are easily broken under pressure. For circuits placed in harsh environments, aluminum PCBs are recommended. Aluminum has good strength, which makes handling durable and reliable.
Lightweight:
Compared with its strength, aluminum PCB is lightweight. Since aluminum PCBs do not require or have a small number of heat sinks, the overall weight budget of the circuit is reduced.
Application of aluminum PCB
Aluminum PCB is suitable for applications with high heat dissipation, mechanical strength and durability requirements. The metal core PCB effectively transfers heat and manages the temperature of the circuit. Compared with glass fiber PCB, the heat emission efficiency of aluminum PCB is close to 10 times. This feature enables designers to optimize the overall housing size and the design of various products.
Some applications of aluminum PCB will be mentioned below
power supply
The power supply and regulating circuit contain power electronic equipment, and the heat dissipation rate is higher than usual.
solid state relay
Solid state relays handle high power, and due to high heat dissipation, aluminum PCBs are more suitable.
car
Aluminum PCBs are widely used in the automotive industry. Circuits installed in automotive products operate under harsh atmospheric conditions and require light weight and long-lasting strength.
LED lights
Aluminum printed circuit boards are widely used in LED light boards. LEDs are sensitive components, but they generate excessive heat. If this heat is not regulated, their performance will be severely affected and lead to early expiration.
In addition, aluminum PCB is a good reflector, which can save the cost of reflectors in low-level lightning products.
How to manufacture aluminum PCB?
Aluminum PCB manufacturing involves various steps. The reliability and durability of these PCBs are related to the manufacturing process. Ignoring subtle details in the manufacturing process will seriously affect the quality of aluminum PCBs.
Aluminum PCB layer
Aluminum PCB consists of multiple layers
Base layer
It is made of aluminum alloy and has unique features such as strong strength and heat dissipation.
Insulation
The insulating layer contains high temperature polymer with good viscoelasticity.
Circuit layer
This layer is made of copper foil and the solder mask is placed on this layer.
How to choose an aluminum PCB manufacturer?
When choosing a brand for your custom aluminum PCB manufacturer, always consider some key factors.
Automated manufacturing plant
Aluminum PCB design procedures are limited and require special attention. Advanced automated manufacturing units produce high-quality PCBs. Your MCPCB manufacturer’s laboratory must be equipped with modern automated machines.
portfolio
Inexperienced aluminum PCB manufacturers may not be able to develop standardized PCBs. Experienced manufacturers adapt to changes and innovations over time. Before placing an order, be sure to consider your manufacturer's product portfolio.
Certification
Your PCB must meet the prescribed quality standards. Uncertified manufacturers do not meet these standards and provide unreliable products.
Graded materials
The unique design and materials of aluminum PCBs are very useful and can achieve higher heat emission. Higher quality can be obtained by using high-quality materials. The use of degraded aluminum alloys or other materials will destroy the reliability and durability of the PCB.
Lead time
If you need to design, develop and deliver PCBs within a limited time, then you must consider the lead time when choosing a manufacturer. Some manufacturers require longer than usual.
Minimum order quantity
Every manufacturer accepts orders with the minimum unit limit. If you are looking for a limited unit for development, then you should consider the minimum order quantity provided by the manufacturer.
