Thicker Copper on a PCB

Thicker Copper on a PCB

Printed circuit boards are the backbone of modern electronics, connecting components together to produce the electronic devices we use in our daily lives.thick copper pcb PCBs are available in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses, each designed to meet specific functional and performance requirements. One of the most significant considerations in determining the proper PCB for your application is copper weight: thicker copper layers offer greater current handling capacity than thinner layers, and can make a significant difference in your board’s durability and power handling capabilities.

The standard copper layer on a pcb is 1 oz, but some projects require a thicker copper layer to handle higher voltages and resistance and impedance levels.thick copper pcb Thicker copper offers several advantages over traditional thin copper layers, including superior current conduction and better heat dissipation.

How do you know if your PCB will need thick copper? If your CAD files do not include a fab print or other copper layer specifications, the fabricator will usually assume 1 oz on all copper layers.thick copper pcb If your project requires thicker copper, make sure you communicate this with the fabricator early in the process. They can provide a quote for the additional copper costs and advise you on how much larger your traces need to be to achieve your desired results.

In addition to providing improved current carrying capacity, thicker copper layers also help to prevent thermal stress in your device by effectively dispersing heat generated by high-current components.thick copper pcb This prevents overheating and can drastically improve the life and reliability of your board.

Another benefit of using thick copper is its improved flexibility.thick copper pcb Thicker copper is easier to bend, allowing the PCB to accommodate curved connections and reducing the number of layers in your design. This can be especially important in applications where space is limited and a more compact circuit board is needed.

Thick copper also offers increased elongation capability, which is important in applications where the board may be subject to physical stress or vibration. Thick copper allows the board to expand and contract without affecting its structural integrity, ensuring that the device will be able to function under the specified conditions.

Thick copper is also a good choice for applications that require plated through holes (PTH). Thicker copper plating provides improved load sharing between multiple layers of the circuit board, and can help to reduce failures due to thermal stress. This can be particularly helpful in applications where a large amount of current flows through the plated holes. A thicker copper plating also helps to protect the conductors in PTH from damage caused by electrochemical corrosion and environmental hazards. A thicker copper plating also ensures that the hole is completely filled, preventing shorting between adjacent tracks. A thicker copper plating can also save time during assembly by eliminating the need for additional copper shims or soldermask, which are normally required to fill holes in conventional PCBs. This can significantly reduce your assembly time and production cost.

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