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- November 20, 2022
- PCB knowledge
- (0)
- 05 mins
What is ceramic PCB – material, types & advantages
Anyone who knows anything about PCBs knows that ceramics are a key component in the manufacturing process. But what a ceramic PCB is, what are the different types and advantages of using it in PCBs? And what are some of its most common applications? Read this article to find out!
What is ceramic PCB?
A PCB made of ceramic material is called a ceramic PCB. This makes it different from other PCBs that are made from regular FR4 glass-epoxy material. The process board is made of copper foil bonded to an alumina, aluminum nitride, beryllium oxide, or silicon carbide substrate surface at significantly high temperatures.
What is the material of ceramic PCB?
Ceramic PCBs are frequently made with copper or gold on top of a ceramic substrate, but other materials such as aluminum, tin, and silver can also be used. The metal is then etched away in specific areas to create the desired circuitry, leaving the ceramic material behind.
What are the types of ceramic PCBs?
1. High temperature ceramic PCBs
High temperature ceramic PCBs are created to be able to handle intensive temperatures while still performing well, making them perfect for industries such as aerospace and defense. These types of PCBs can be made out of multiple PCB material, a few examples being alumina, beryllia or silicon carbide.
2. Low temperature ceramic PCBs
Low-temperature ceramic printed circuit boards are designed for use in applications where thermal management is not a top priority, this mostly includes consumer electronics. These PCBs are typically made from materials such as aluminum oxide and zirconia.
3. Thick film ceramic PCBs
Thick film ceramic PCBs are made by depositing a thick layer of conductive material onto a ceramic substrate. These PCBs are typically used in high-density applications such as cell phones and computers.
How are ceramic PCBs made?
Ceramic PCBs are made by mixing ceramic with adhesive, plasticizer, lubricant and solvent. The ceramic layer then formed provides extra rigidity and thermal conductivity, making it ideal for high-power applications. To create a reliable bond between the ceramic and other materials, the materials are first cleaned using an ultrasonic process. Then, they are placed in a vacuum chamber and exposed to high temperatures.
This process causes the materials to expand at different rates, creating a strong bond between them. Once the bond is formed, the board is cooled and then etched to create the desired circuit pattern. Circuit tracing is then implemented on refractory metals like tungsten and molybdenum. Finally, the board is coated with a thin layer of solder resist to protect it from corrosion.
Comparison of ceramic PCB with FR4
The two of the most common types of PCBs, FR4 and ceramic have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to select the one that best suits your needs. FR4 is a glass-reinforced epoxy laminate that is widely used in applications where thermal stability and mechanical strength are required.
However, it is not well suited for high-temperature or high-frequency applications. Ceramic, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for high-temperature and high-frequency applications. However, it is more expensive than FR4 and can be more difficult to work with. When choosing between FR4 and a ceramic PCB, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of your project.
Advantages of ceramic PCBs
1. A ceramic PCB is more durable and can withstand elevated temperatures better than traditional, non-ceramic circuit boards.
2. A ceramic PCB also has improved electrical insulation properties, which helps protect against potential issues with shorts or defects in the circuitry.
3. A ceramic PCB board is resistant to chemical corrosion, making it ideal for use in harsh environments.
4. A ceramic PCB doesn’t pose any ecological threats since it is RoHS compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances).
Why use ceramics for circuit boards?
Ceramics are a great material choice for circuit boards because they have a very low thermal expansion coefficient. This means that when the ceramics are exposed to changes in temperature, they will expand and contract at a much lower rate than other materials (like plastic or metal).
This is important for circuit boards because the last thing you want is for your board to warp or bend under the heat of the electronic components it houses. By using ceramics, you can help ensure that your board stays flat and stable, even when things get hot!
Applications of ceramic PCBs
1. A ceramic PCB has outstanding thermal and electrical properties, making it ideal for use in a wide range of electronic devices.
2. A ceramic PCB is often used in power amplifiers and high-frequency applications due to its low dielectric constant and loss tangent.
3. A ceramic PCB is also chosen for microwave and millimeter-wave applications because it has low loss which results in higher thermal conductivity.
How to choose the right ceramic PCB production company?
When it comes to choosing a ceramic PCB production company, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, it’s important to find a company with experience. They should have a good track record of producing quality products and delivering on time. Second, you’ll want to make sure the company has a good reputation. Check out online reviews and talk to other businesses in the industry. Third, you’ll want to get a price quote from the company. Be sure to compare prices before making a decision.
Finally, make sure the company you choose is certified by the IPC (Institute for Printed Circuits). This will ensure that they meet the highest standards for quality and safety. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to choose the right ceramic PCB production company for your needs.
A PCB made of ceramic material is called a ceramic PCB, which is different from other PCBs that are made from regular FR4 glass-epoxy material.
FR4 is a glass-reinforced epoxy laminate that is widely used in applications where thermal stability and mechanical strength are required. Ceramic, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for high-temperature and high-frequency applications. However, it is more expensive than FR4 and can be more difficult to work with.
By using ceramics, you can help ensure that your board stays flat and stable, even when things get hot!
Conclusion
We have seen that ceramic PCBs are a great choice for many different applications. They have high thermal conductivity, low loss tangent and dielectric constant, and they can operate at very high frequencies. They are also immune to corrosion and environmental stress cracking. If you need a board that will run cool and is impervious to the elements, then a ceramic PCB may be the right solution for you.
If you have decided to use ceramic PCBs for your electronic equipment, IBE is the perfect PCB Assembly supplier for you. With quick turn times and high-quality products, IBE will not disappoint. Contact us today to get started on your next project!
