What types of applications are Heavy Copper PCBs typically used for?
Heavy copper PCBs are ideal for high-power equipment, automotive, defence and military applications, medical devices, and many other areas.
What is a heavy copper PCB?
heavy copper PCB refers to a PCB where 3oz or greater copper is used on all layers of the board both inner and outer layers
Are there any limitations to using heavy copper in multi-layer PCBs?
While heavy copper can be used in multi-layer PCBs, there are some limitations. The increased copper thickness can make it challenging to achieve fine registration between layers. Additionally, the overall board thickness increases significantly with heavy copper on multiple layers, which can impact manufacturing processes like drilling and plating through-holes.
Can heavy copper PCBs be used with surface mount technology (SMT)?
Yes, heavy copper PCBs can be designed for SMT components. However, special considerations are needed for solder paste application, component placement, and reflow profiles due to the increased thermal mass of heavy copper layers. Fine-pitch SMT components may require standard copper thickness in their mounting areas.
What is considered "heavy copper" in PCB manufacturing?
Generally, any copper thickness above 3 oz (105 µm) is considered heavy copper. However, the definition can vary depending on the application and industry. Some manufacturers may consider 3 oz as the starting point for heavy copper, while others may set the threshold at 4 oz or higher.
How does the cost of heavy copper PCBs compare to standard PCBs?
Heavy copper PCBs are generally more expensive than standard PCBs due to several factors: Increased raw material costs (more copper) Longer processing times, especially for etching Higher tooling wear during fabrication More complex manufacturing processes Potentially lower yields due to tighter manufacturing tolerances However, the increased cost may be offset by improved performance, reliability, and the potential to reduce the number of layers in some designs.
How do you choose the thickness of PCB copper?
According to the different uses of the PCB, the required copper thickness is different. Like PCBs for general consumer and communication products, copper thicknesses of 0.5oz, 1oz, and 2oz are needed; for electronic products carrying high current, such as high-voltage products, power supply boards, and other products, PCBs generally need more than 3oz of thick copper. In short, choose the appropriate copper thickness according to the requirements of the product.
How many layers of copper are in a PCB?
There is one layer of copper in a single-sided PCB. There are two layers of copper in a double-sided PCB. There are more than two layers of copper in a multi-layer PCB. For example, there are four layers of copper in a 4-layer PCB.
Is there any difference between heavy copper circuit board and thick copper PCBs?
There is no difference between these two terms, all means printed circuit boards with 3oz or thicker copper thickness. Thick copper PCB or heavy copper boards are widely used in higher power electronic boards.
What is a typical copper weight for Heavy Copper PCBs?
The typical copper weight for heavy copper PCBs is more than 2 ounces (70um). But we can also produce higher copper thickness such as 4 oz copper PCB, 10 oz copper PCB and upto 20 oz copper PCB.
What materials are used in Heavy Copper PCBs?
RTF copper should be used.
Better filling material in lamination
High thermal conductivity substrates
Are there any design considerations when working with Heavy Copper PCBs?
Charge large copper area into copper spots
Keep proper residual copper
Increase trace width and spacing
Optimize the pad design of the inner layer
What are the advantages of using Heavy Copper PCBs?
Withstand more currents and higher voltages
High reliability
More resistant to heat, cold, and corrosion
Long life circle
Is 2oz copper PCB heavy copper printed circuit board?
In Richfulljoy, printed circuit boards with 0.33oz, 0.5oz, 1oz and 2oz are normal copper thickness. So we think 2oz PCB is not heavy copper circuit board, and we regard PCBs with 3oz or above copper thickness as heavy copper boards.