Your Professional Aluminum PCB Manufacturer in China

PCBMay is a professional Aluninum PCB boards manufacturer in China, who provides many different types thermal conductivities of Aluminum PCBs for you.

  • Over 10 years Aluminum PCB manufacturing experience
  • Provide different types of thermal conductivities
  • Offer the length to be 1.6 meter for Aluminum PCB
  • Fast delivery time 24h for sample order
Get Our Best Quotation
Upload File

Aluminum PCB Can Save Energy for Your Project

As a leading Aluminum PCB supplier based in China, we could provide you high quality with different solder mask colors, such as white, green, black, and blue.

Our factory with over 10 years of manufacturing Aluminum PCB, could provide a free sample of your project, after your test, you will place mass production of Aluminum PCB to us.

From our management to our workshop workers, all of us will support your PCB order, just send us your Gerber file.

Aluminum PCB assembly is one of our specialties. In this full feature article, we’ll provide you all the information you’ll ever need.

Read More

Aluminum PCB Series

Aluminum PCB 1 W

Thermal conductivity 1.0W/MK, ceramic filled, halogen-free, MOT 130℃, there’s a good bending feature from angle 30° to angle 180°. This thermal conductivity is normal.

Aluminum PCB 1.6 Wmk

Thermal conductivity – 1.6W/mK,  1.0mm thickness, 1 oz copper, OSP surface finished, thermal conductivity higher, price higher. The application is LED lighting.

Aluminum PCB 2.0Wmk

Thermal conductivity – 2.0W/mK, 8 times that of FR4, Tg 130℃ & Td 380℃, applications: high beam & low beam,3D lighting, power conversion, motor Drives & controllers, power supply.

Aluminum PCB 2.2Wmk

Thermal conductivity – 2.2W/mK, 8 times of FR4, Tg 130℃ & Td 380℃, Excellent thermal, insulation performance, MOT 105℃, Lead-free assembly ok.

Aluminum PCB 3.0Wmk

Thermal conductivity -3.0W/MK, ceramic filled, halogen-free, MOT 130℃, applications: LED lighting, power, conversion controllers, motor drives, rectifiers, power supply.

Aluminum PCB 4.2Wmk

Thermal conductivity -4.2W/MK, Bergquist material, 1.6mm thickness and 2 oz copper, Lead-free HASL surface finish, the application is Automotive LED lighting.

Aluminum PCB by Copper Thickness (5)

  • 0.5 oz Aluminum PCB

    The 0.5 oz Aluminum PCB is utilized in SIM cards, sensor cards and even IOT or smart applications. It is the thinnest Aluminum PCB we can produce for you, usually colored white.

  • 1 oz Aluminum PCB

    The majority of FR4 PCBs are 1 oz Aluminum PCB. Although this is the industry standard, this PCB does not cover high voltage applications, which may be disadvantageous.

  • 2 oz Aluminum PCB

    For their OEM prototypes, several customers want a 2 oz Aluminum PCB. We utilize their designs to create the 2 oz PCB. Another related product is the 2 oz. Copper PCB.

  • 3 oz Aluminum PCB

    The 3 oz Aluminum PCB was designed to give clients with a high-power output. This PCB can be classified as Thick PCB. It can be cost-effective while being an efficient product.

  • 4 Oz Aluminum PCB

    A strong metal core is used to make the 4 Oz PCB. This Aluminum board is the most high-performing Aluminum PCB. Please inform us ahead of your specific design.

Aluminum PCB by Surface Finish (5)

  • HASL Aluminum PCB

    The industry standard for surface finishing is HASL Aluminum PCB. For Aluminum boards, you can request Lead-free HASL, which is gaining popularity especially in many advanced EU countries.

  • Lead-Free Aluminum PCB

    The industry standard for the some parts of the US and most of Europe is lead-free PCBs. This list includes Lead-free Aluminum PCB. There is also a halogen-free option if you want it. Many customers depend on it.

  • OSP Aluminum PCB

    Though some customers prefer FR4 PCB, OSP Aluminum PCB has gained popularity for its superior solderability. This surface finish is sometimes called Entek. It can be a cheaper choice for you.

  • Immersion Gold Aluminum PCB

    Due to its endurance, this finish is preferred by some customers. It has great performance when components undergo surface mounting of devices (SMD). It also ultimately lasts longer.

  • Immersion Silver Aluminum PCB

    Because of cost-cutting, Immersion Silver PCB is chosen. Known as a mid-range surface finish, it also has a longer shelf life than HASL finish PCB. It passes conductivity tests.

Aluminum PCB by Types (5)

  • Single-Sided Aluminum PCB

    The wide adoption of Single-sided Aluminum PCB means that there is a great demand for them. We usually mass manufacture these PCBs, then they are deemed for outfitting in daily-used electronics gadgets.

  • Double-Sided Aluminum PCB

    Circuit parts can be put on both sides of the Double-Sided Aluminum PCB to boost efficiency. This is the appeal of Double-sided PCBs in general. If you are saving money, you can choose this.

  • Through-Hole Aluminum PCB

    For the proper process of assembling this PCB, the aluminum is first pre-drilled. For safe Through-Hole Aluminum PCB manufacturing process, lamination is the next crucial step we undertake.

  • Metal Core Aluminum PCB

    In the PCB industry, we name this part Metal Core Aluminum PCB because the foundation material is metal, or even copper. PCB core with this material is more resilient, enough high-power usage.

  • Ceramic Aluminum PCB

    Ceramic Aluminum PCBs are quite often made with alumina and aluminum nitride for great heat transfer. These PCBs can be considered special material PCB, which are sourced from Rogers or Taconic.

Aluminum PCB Advantages

Fast Delivery Time
Fast Delivery Time
PCBMay can produce the prototype PCBs within 24hour after confirming the engineering questions. Don't hesitate to contact us.
Quality Control
Quality Control
PCBMay follows the IPC Class 2 or Class 3 quality control. There're IQC, IPQC, QPC, FQC, OQC, and provide high-quality products for customers.
Good Communication
Good Communication
PCBMay has one professional team to support our customers and no language barrier & 7*24h communication service.
Laboratory Test
Laboratory Test
PCBMay does a lot of tests during production, such as E-test, function test, and laboratory test, also provide micro-section for each shipment.

PCBMay Aluminum PCB Properties

Our Aluminum manufacturing capacity is able to give you the following specs:

Board thickness: 0.4 up to 3.2mm

Copper Finish: 0.5 oz to 4 oz

Surface finish: HASL/ Lead-free HASL

Thermal Conductivity: 1W/2W (m*k)

PCB Silkscreen: Either white or black

For lead time, we can produce your order in 2 to 3 days. Please ask us directly if you have an urgent need. We can facilitate rush orders if needed.

PCBMay Aluminum PCB Properties
PCBMay Aluminum PCB Production

PCBMay Aluminum PCB Production

With full ISO and UL certification, our Aluminum PCB is manufactured using advanced manufacturing technology. We employ both automatic and manual Quality Control methods. In order to be maximally effective, a streamlined production technique is used by us.

You have the option of choosing between rigid, flexible, or rigid-flexible alternatives. Aluminum PCBs are compact and lightweight products that can handle a high wiring density. Advanced material alternatives are also available (RoHs-compliant).

We assure you that your PCB designs can be fully optimized using PCBMay’s Aluminum PCB.

Why Choose PCBMay for Your Aluminum PCB?

As a reliable Aluminum PCB manufacturer, PCBMay has imported many high tech equipment to meet customer’s requirement.

In order to meet customer’s delivery time, we have enough raw materials in stock. What’s more, we provide different kinds of Aluminum base materials such as Bergquist, Laird, so you will have more choice.

When you have any long PCB such as 1.0m, 1.5m, or 1.8m length, please contact us, we can help you.

Why Choose PCBMay for Your Aluminum PCB

Your Leading Aluminum PCB Supplier

Your Leading Aluminum PCB Supplier
Your Leading Aluminum PCB Supplier 2

We have been in this industry over for 10 years for manufacturing all different Aluminum PCBs, single-sided and double-sided Aluminum PCBs.

With the development of technology and the higher and higher environmental requirements, LED lighting becomes more and more, so aluminum PCB demands are large.

For the reliable PCB company in China, we will provide you with a suitable proposal for your design and also provide a suggested panel drawing for your choice.

We will give you some design suggestions during our CAM engineering review of your files when there’s an error or need to improve the trace/PAD so that you will get a high-quality product.

In PCBMay, we can offer many ranges of thermal conductivities from 0.8-4.2W/m-k, meanwhile, you can also send heavy copper PCB to us, such as 2oz copper, 3oz copper until 10 oz copper, we can provide a reasonable price for you.

Aluminum PCB Fabrication

Aluminum PCB Fabrication

PCBMay provides high-quality PCB assembly and manufacturing services to meet your needs.

The Aluminum PCB that we will send you will enough for your industrial or personal PCB projects.

If you’re looking for a high-quality Aluminum PCB at a reasonable price that may be used in a variety of applications, then, PCBMay is the best solution.

Aluminum PCB Testing

Our PCB is created using the most up-to-date manufacturing techniques available.

We apply international standards for PCB testing. We want to make sure that when your order reaches you, it is marketable.

We use X-ray tests, functional tests, the prestigious AOI test, and the Flying Probe Test to ensure the best quality Aluminum PCB.

Aluminum PCB Applications

Aluminum PCB for Power Applications

Aluminum PCB is used in a such applications called solid state relays and power conversion, due to material thermal conductivity.

Aluminum PCB for Automotive Applications

We have GPS kits and AC/DC converters for power or engine controls on Aluminum PCB for Automotive.

Aluminum PCB for Consumer Products

PCBMay continues to sell Aluminum PCB for consumer products such as LED lights, interior building lights, and outdoor lighting.

Aluminum PCB for LED Applications

Aluminum PCB for LED Applications is more energy efficient and provides higher performance and product durability.

Aluminum PCB for Telecom Applications

Aluminum PCB for Telecom Applications are our highest sellers, such can be used in communication radars.

Aluminum PCB Production Details As Following Up

ItemCapability
Layer Count1-40layers
Base MaterialKBShengyiShengyiSF305FR408FR408HRIS410FR406GETEK370HRIT180ARogers4350BRogers4000PTFE Laminates(Rogers seriesTaconic seriesArlon seriesNelco series)Rogers/Taconic/Arlon/Nelco laminate with FR-4 material(including partial Ro4350B hybrid laminating with FR-4)
Board TypeBackplane、HDI、High multi-layer 、blind&buried PCB、Embedded Capacitance、Embedded resistance board 、Heavy copper power PCB、Backdrill.
Board Thickness0.2-5.0mm
Copper ThicknessMin. 1/2 OZ, Max. 10 OZ
PTH Wall25um(1mil)
Maximum Board Size1100*500mm(43”*19”)
Min laser drilling size4mil
Min. Spacing/Tracing2.7mil/2.7mil
Solder MaskGreen, Black, Blue, Red, White, Yellow, Purple matte/glossy
Surface TreatmentFlash gold(electroplated gold)ENIGHard goldFlash goldHASL Lead-free OSPENEPIGSoft goldImmersion silverImmersion TinENIG+OSP, ENIG+Gold finger, Flash gold(electroplated gold)+Gold finger, Immersion silver+Gold finger, Immersion Tin+Gold finger.
Min. Annular Ring3mil
Aspect ratio10:1(HASL Lead-free HASL LeadENIGImmersion TinImmersion silverENEPIG);8:1(OSP)
Impedance control±5ohm(<50ohm), ±10%(≥50ohm)
Other TechniquesBlind/Buried Via
Gold Fingers
Press Fit
Via in Pad
Electrical Test

Here there’re many laminate material datasheets, they’re useful and helpful for you, please see them:

SUPPLIERPCB LAMINATETYPEMATERIAL DATASHEETTGTDDK(1MHZ)DK(1GHZ)DK(10GHZ)
KBKB-6160FR4DOWNLOAD1353054.35
KB-6160AFR4DOWNLOAD1353054.35
KB-6160CFR4DOWNLOAD1353144.7
KB-6150
KB-6150C
FR4DOWNLOAD1323054.6
KB-6164FR4DOWNLOAD1423304.8
KB-6164FFR4DOWNLOAD1453404.8
KB-6165FFR4DOWNLOAD1503464.8
KB-6167FFR4DOWNLOAD1703494.8
SHENGYIS1141FR4DOWNLOAD1353104.6
S1141KFFR4DOWNLOAD1403504.7
S1000FR4DOWNLOAD1553354.9
S1170FR4DOWNLOAD1703354.6
S1000-2FR4DOWNLOAD1703354.8
S1155FR4DOWNLOAD1353704.7
ITEQIT-158FR4DOWNLOAD1503404.6-4.8
IT-180FR4DOWNLOAD1803504.5-4.7
TUCTU-768FR4DOWNLOAD1803504.3-4.44.3
TU-872Modified EpoxyDOWNLOAD2003403.8-4.03.8
ROGERSRO 3003Cer/PTFEDOWNLOAD5003
RO 3010Cer/PTFEDOWNLOAD50010.2
RO 4003Hydrocarbon/CerDOWNLOAD>2804253.38
RO 4350BHydrocarbon/CerDOWNLOAD>2803903.48
RT/duroid 5880PTFE/GlassDOWNLOAD5002.2
ISOLAPolyclad 370HRFR4DOWNLOAD1703404.8-5.1
FR406-HRFR4DOWNLOAD1903253.913.863.81
FR408-HRFR4DOWNLOAD2003603.723.693.65
P96PolyimideDOWNLOAD2604163.783.73
HitachiMCL-BE- 67GModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD1403404.94.4
MCL-E-679FFR4DOWNLOAD1703504.2-4.44.3-4.5
MCL-LX-67YSpecial LaminateDOWNLOAD185-195325-3453.4-3.6
NelcoN4000-13Modified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403653.73.6
N4000-13EPModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403503.43.2
N4000-13SIModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403503.43.2
N4000-13EP SIModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403503.43.2
TaconicTLX-6PTFEDOWNLOAD2.65
TLX-7PTFEDOWNLOAD2.6
TLX-8PTFEDOWNLOAD2.55
TLX-9PTFEDOWNLOAD2.45
RF35PTFEDOWNLOAD<3153.53.5
TLC-27PTFEDOWNLOAD2.75
TLC-30PTFEDOWNLOAD3
TLC-32PTFEDOWNLOAD3.2
ArlonArlon 25NCerDOWNLOAD2603.38
Arlon 25FRCerDOWNLOAD2603.58
Arlon 33NPolymideDOWNLOAD>2503534
Arlon 35NPolymideDOWNLOAD>2503634.2
Arlon 85NPolymideDOWNLOAD2503874.2
StablcorST325DOWNLOADThermal conductivity:75w/m.k(with 1oz copper)
ST10DOWNLOADThermal conductivity:325w/m.k(with 1oz copper)
PanasonicR-1566WFR4DOWNLOAD1403304.954.74.65
VentecVT-901PolymideDOWNLOAD2503904.2-4.54.0-4.3
VT-90HPolymideDOWNLOAD2503904.2-4.54.0-4.3
Bergquistht-04503DOWNLOADThermal conductivity:2.2w/m.k(with 1oz copper)

Delivery

PCBMay offers flexible shipping methods for our customers, you may choose from one of the methods below.

1. DHL

DHL offers international express services in over 220 countries.
DHL partners with PCBMay and offers very competitive rates to customers of PCBMay.
It normally takes 3-7 business days for the package to be delivered around the world.

DHL Forwarder

2. UPS

UPS gets the facts and figures about the world’s largest package delivery company and one of the leading global providers of specialized transportation and logistics services.
It normally takes 3-7 business days to deliver a package to most of the addresses in the world.

UPS Forwarder

3. TNT

TNT has 56,000 employees in 61 countries.
It takes 4-9 business days to deliver the packages to the hands
of our customers.

TNT Forwarder

4. FedEx

FedEx offers delivery solutions for customers around the world.
It takes 4-7 business days to deliver the packages to the hands
of our customers.

Fedex Forwarder

5. Air, Sea/Air, and Sea

If your order is of large volume with PCBMay, you can also choose
to ship via air, sea/air combined, and sea when necessary.
Please contact your sales representative for shipping solutions.

Note: if you need others, please contact your sales representative for shipping solutions.

On our website you can use the following payment methods:

Telegraphic Transfer(TT): A telegraphic transfer (TT) is an electronic method of transferring funds utilized primarily for overseas wire transactions. It’s very convenient to transfer.

Bank/Wire transfer: To pay by wire transfer using your bank account, you need to visit your nearest bank branch with the wire transfer information. Your payment will be completed 3-5 business days after you have finished the money transfer.

Paypal: Pay easily, fast and secure with PayPal. many other credit and debit cards via PayPal.

Credit Card: You can pay with credit card: Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard, Maestro.

    • “Pressing on with their technology, these Chinese guys are amazing. At first, I cannot believe their prices. Don’t seem to match with the quality. But believe me, they excel at what they do. Certainly lots of competence in there, and the cheap price is the most attractive for me. You can get used to this kind of treatment.”

      Daniel Irman, Electronics Expert from Singapore
    • “You certainly don’t let us down! I was apprehensive to place an order at first because I was only trying out a couple load boards. I assumed I’d have to get a large box. However, it was fine, even if I did utilize some prototypes. They have a top-of-the-line process that they follow. There was no language barrier because both parties can communicate clearly in English. Thank you for your assistance.”

      A.R. Spike, Engineer from Denmark
    • “When I was looking for a hard-to-find PCB transistor for my aluminum board, this company was able to produce it. It was easy for them to accommodate my order, and they say they have no PCB raw material shortage. I believe this now, after I have ordered for the for 6 moths already. Reliable and fast. There was a slight delay once, but all throughout, I was able to get ahold of their customer reps. Nicely done. I recommend this PCB factory from China.”

      Davies F. Fitz from Project Manager (Production), Switzerland

    Aluminum PCB: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

    PCBs are the ultimate power provider of electronics. You will find different material-based PCBs. Aluminium PCBs are one of the kinds of them.

    Preferred names for aluminum printed circuit boards (PCBs) include aluminum-clad PCBs, aluminum core PCBs, and a variety of other terms. However, we have a slew of questions about aluminum PCBs.

    In the following sections, we will provide solutions to your questions and continue our discussion of aluminum base PCBs.

    The answers to commonly asked questions should be found throughout this FAQ answering guide, and we hope you find them useful.

    What Is An Aluminum PCB?

    In one word answer, aluminum-backed PCBs are the PCBs that are backed with the aluminum base material. You can call aluminum PCBs, aluminum core PCBs, aluminum backed PCBs, aluminum substrate PCBs, etc.

     There is a conductive thin layer of dielectric in aluminum-clad core PCBs. The layout of the metal core PCBs is also the same as the traditional PCBs.

    It also holds the same copper layer, solder mask, silkscreen, etc.

    Only aluminum or metal is used as the base material of the PCB instead of plastic, or FR4. Sometimes aluminum combines with fiberglass, or aluminum is used solely.

    You will find single-sided layer, double-sided layer, 2 layer aluminum PCBs, or others.

    LED industry vastly uses aluminum PCBs. Because aluminum has the extensive thermal mitigating feature. And we know, LEDs create extensive heat, which should be mitigated in efficient ways.

    Also, aluminum offers a long lifespan for PCBs.

     

    Aluminum PCB

    Aluminum PCB

    What Is The Construction Of Aluminum PCBs?

    Aluminum boards are also mentioned as CCL. CCL refers to Copper Clad Laminate. Aluminum PCB stackup is the same as traditional PCBs like FR4.

     

    The Construction Of Aluminum PCB

    The Construction Of Aluminum PCB

    The base material of the aluminum PCB is aluminum. Aside from this, the following are basic construction of the PCB.

    • The layer of Copper Foil: The fundamental layer of any PCB is the copper layer, so as an aluminum circuit board. It is basically thicker than traditional PCBs. The is normal 1 oz to 10 oz thick.
    • Dielectric Layer: The conductivity of the dielectric layer is one of its distinguishing characteristics. It has a conventional thickness range of 50 µm to 200 µm, and it is made of polyethylene. The heat resistance of the dielectric layer, on the other hand, is lower.
    • AluminiumBase: The aluminum substrate serves as the foundation for the aluminum core printed circuit boards. It has a significant heat-reducing effect. As a result, aluminum is used in high-temperature applications because of its heat dissipation properties.
    • AluminiumBase Membrane Layer: The membrane layer keeps the surface of the PCB protected. This layer is selective.
    How Do Aluminum PCBs Perform?

    The performance of aluminum base PCBs is more advanced than standard FR4 PCBs. Aluminium PCBs perform distinguishable in the following segments.

     

    Aluminum PCBs Have Most Heat Dissipation Ability

    Aluminum PCBs Have Most Heat Dissipation Ability

    Heat Dissipation

    The heat dissipation of standard substrates like FR4, or CEM3 is poor. They cannot dissipate more temperature at a time. So, high heat leads to component failure. But, aluminum has a great heat dissipation property.

    FR4 has a temperature resistance of 20 to 22 degrees Celsius per watt at 20 to 22 degrees Celsius. The temperature range for aluminum, on the other hand, is 1 to 2 degrees Celsius.

    Thermal Expansion

    The coefficient of thermal expansion of aluminum is around 22 ppm and the copper is 18 ppm. These two are almost closed. So the balanced coefficient of thermal expansion can withstand copper. This ensures the durability and reliability of the PCBs.

    Dimension stability

    Aluminum base PCBs have excellent dimensional stability. When aluminum PCBs encounter a temperature from 30 to 150°, the change of aluminum occurs around 2.5 to 3%.

    Other Performance

    Aluminium PCBs are durable and reliable. They also have electromagnetic shielding and high dielectric strength. Aluminum-clad PCBs have good heat resistance and physical properties that also save costs in production.

    What Are The Manufacturing Phases Of An Aluminum PCB?

    Designing and aluminum PCB manufacturing processes are similar to standard PCBs. Every PCB design starts with the schematic drawing. The following are the manufacturing steps of aluminum core PCBs.

    Schematic Drawing

    The very first process of designing the PCB is schematic drawing. Schematic is the blueprint of PCBs. Schematic ensures every detail of PCBs. The further movement of the PCB manufacturing goes depending on the schematic draw.

    atic draw.

    An Example Of PCB Schematic

    An Example Of PCB Schematic

    Layout Design

    By schematic capturing, you need to design the layout of the PCB. It is the visual design part of the aluminum base PCBs.

    Layout Printing

    After completely designing the layout, this time you need to print the PCB on the aluminum substrate PCB board. However, the board should be ready before printing with the required number of layers, and proper stackup.

    See how aluminum core PCBs are printed.

    Etching Traces

    After printing the PCB, this time you need to etch the conductive traces. The traces will allow the component to pass the current and signals.

    Component Placement

    After etching the traces, now place the components in the right places. Component placing is one of the crucial parts of PCB manufacturing. You may use SMT or through-hole PCB assembly technology for component placement.

    For the through-hole process, proper soldering is a must.

    Routing

    Now route the components with each other. After routing the components, the PCBs are ready for application.

    PCB Testing

    PCB testing is another important fact of PCB manufacturing. Testing is needed to ensure the PCB is manufactured as per the design and performance required.

    What Challenges Do You Need To Overcome To Design An Aluminum PCB?

    During the manufacturing of aluminum substrate PCBs, you have to face some challenges to overcome.

    Copper Etching

    In aluminum substrate PCBs, the copper foil used is comparatively thicker. If it goes over 3 oz, you need width etching. However, the copper etching process must follow the design requirements. If not, you may experience a trace width out of tolerance.

     

    You Will Face Some Challenges In Copper Etching Of Aluminum Base PCB

    You Will Face Some Challenges In Copper Etching Of Aluminum Base PCB

    Solder Mask Printing

    As for the use of thicker copper foil, the solder mask printing becomes more complex in aluminum PCBs. That is why you need two times solder mask printing. You also must use premium quality solder mask oil. Sometimes, you may use resin filling for solder masking.

    Mechanical Manufacturing

    PCB V-scoring, drilling, molding, and other mechanical processes are examples of PCB mechanical processes. Internal vias are essentially where they are left. As a result, the electrical strength of the PCBs may be compromised.

    For low-volume production, you may use electrical and professional milling in this scenario. In the end, this will improve mechanical strength.

    What Are The Uses Of Aluminum PCBs?

    As aluminum-clad PCBs are extra durable, and highly heat-dissipating, using them in electronics is a bang for the buck. There are many sectors that use aluminum PCB. The following are some of the sectors.

    LED Industry

    LED lights and circuit boards are the main users of aluminum boards. Aluminum-clad PCBs for LEDs ensure the lowest possible temperature. Along with this, aluminum PCBs also bring the highest brightness and lowest costs.

    LED Industry Vastly Uses Aluminum Base PCB

    LED Industry Vastly Uses Aluminum Base PCB

    Along with the LED industry, there are a bunch of used aluminum boards in different sectors.

    What Are The Significant Benefits Of Using Aluminum PCBs?

    Aluminium PCBs significantly reduce the amount of heat generated by the PCB’s components. It is the major benefit of aluminum printed circuit boards, as well as the primary rationale for their adoption.

    Aluminum Substrate PCBs Are Highly Heat Dissipating

    Aluminium Substrate PCBs Are Highly Heat Dissipating

    • Aluminum can be refined. They are low-costing as well. So, making aluminum substrate PCBs is more cost-effective than other materials.
    • Aluminum is a non-toxic material. You can also recycle them. Ultimately, aluminum PCBs are environmentally friendly.
    • High heat or temperature is always vital for electronics. On the other hand, aluminum is a highly heat-dissipating material. Aluminum absorbs heat from all of its constituents and dissipates it into the atmosphere.
    • Aluminum is a highly durable and strong material. Along with standard durability, aluminum is also safe from accidental breakage. So, using aluminum PCB will not give you the tension of breaking.
    • Aluminum is a lightweight material that has a high degree of toughness in addition to being very lightweight. As a result, aluminum printed circuit boards have exceptional strength while weighing little.
    What Are The Types Of Aluminum PCBs?

    Aluminium PCBs are found in various types in terms of layers, and state. They are as follows.

    Single-Sided Aluminum-Clad PCB

    Single-Sided Aluminium-Clad PCB

    • Single-Sided PCBs: Single-sided PCBs have a single conductive copper layer above the material substrate. On the other side, components are placed and soldered on one side.
    • Double-Sided PCBs: Double-sided PCBs hold two thin conductive copper layers on both sides of the board. Electrical holes are used to connect sides with each other.
    • Rigid PCBs: Rigid PCBs are rigid in the state. As aluminum is a rigid material, so, basically the structure of aluminum base PCBs is rigid in general.
    • High-Frequency PCBs: High-frequency PCBs pass high frequency in the applications. These PCBs are used in extensive applications.

    Why Should You Ground The Aluminum PCBs?

    Electrical grounding is a secondary channel for electrical current to go through. It enables the current to be returned to the ground in the event of a malfunction in the electrical wiring system.

    Grounding is a physical link between electronics and the earth’s magnetic field.

    Grounding is one of the most crucial facts of electronics. It is highly essential for the following reasons.

    Gives Protection Against Electrical Overload

    If there is an electrical overload, the grounding will save your electronics. If there is lightning in the sky, this may dangerously affect your electronics. Grounding will return back the excessive current to the earth.

    Grounding Saves Your PCBs From Damages

    Grounding Saves Your PCBs From Damages

    Voltage Stabilization

    Grounding helps to distribute the proper amount of power across the entire electrical system. This ensures the circuit does not face an overload of voltage.

    Preventing Injuries, Damage, And Death

    Improper grounding brings risk to your electronic system. This could damage your system, and also can injure you. This could also drive you to death. Proper grounding in electronics prevents these events.

    What Are The Rules To Follow For Grounding In Aluminum PCBs?

    If you understand the importance of grounding, now you might want to properly ground your aluminum PCBs during manufacturing. There are some basic rules to follow for proper grinding.

    Do Not Leave Anything Unattached

    Do Not Leave Anything Unattached

    Let’s have a look at them.

    • You must attach every electrically conductive part to the ground plane of your PCB. Don’t leave anything unattached.
    • You must ensure a dedicated ground layer for the entire PCB. This creates a ground current loop which is good for the PCBs.
    • Ensure a single ground point comes together to the ground plane. It is better to use your dedicated ground layer as the common point.
    • Make sure you complete your grounding before the routing of the components.
    • Minimize the use of vias as high as possible. Instead, send the components to the ground plane directly.
    Which Surface Finish Is Suitable For Your Aluminum PCB?

    Surface finish is one of the most crucial facts of your PCB manufacturing. The surface finishes protect your PCBs’ conductive copper from oxidation and corrosions.

    However, surface finish selection depends on the costs, applications of the PCBs, and many other facts. Your aluminum PCB manufacturer and designer will determine which surface finish is suitable for the particular PCBs.

    The following are some most popular surface finishes.

    HASL– Hot Air Soldering Leveling

    It is the most common type of surface finish. You need to dip the PCB in molten solder to cover the exposed copper with the solder.

    ENIG and ENEPIG

    Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold is the combination of gold and nickel. The nickel covers the copper, and the gold covers the nickel for protection.

    On the other hand, In the ENEPIG, palladium is used with nickel and gold. This is also very efficient and cost-effective.

    ImAg – Immersion Silver

    Hin silver plating is used on the conductive copper traces and other exposed copper of the PCBs.

    OSP Surface Finish

    It is an organic and transparent surface finish. OSP is a water-based surface finish that selectively bonds with copper.

    OSP Surface Finish In Metal Core PCB

    OSP Surface Finish In Metal Core PCB

    ImSn- Immersion Tin

    Like Immersion Silver, Immersion Tin uses thin tin plating on the conductive copper traces and other exposed copper.

    What Are The Efficient Ways To Dissipate And Prevent High Heat On Aluminum PCBs?

    There are some precise and effective ways to prevent excessive heat on your aluminum base PCBs. If you properly utilize them, high cannot be generated on your PCBs.

    Use High-Grade Materials For Aluminum PCB

    Use High-Grade Materials For Aluminum PCB

    • Use a properly sized heatsink based on the size of the PCB and its application. Attach the heatsink in the proper way.
    • Consider the high-grade materials including high-grade aluminum and other materials of the PCBs.
    • Select the high-grade components as well.
    • Keep the analog and digital components away from each other.
    • Use a thick plate and board for the PCB. The thick boards can consume more heat than thinner ones.
    • Apply proper laminations on the PCB. Proper lamination helps to mitigate high heat.
    Why Does The LED Industry Use Aluminum PCBs?

    Aluminium PCBs are the same in structure as standard PCBs. The main difference is the use of aluminum as the base layer of the PCBs.

    By the way, aluminum-backed PCBs are extensively used as LED PCBs and power converting electronics.

    Aluminum Base PCBs Are Highly Heat Dissipating

    Aluminum Base PCBs Are Highly Heat Dissipating

    Because aluminum is extensively a heat-dissipating material. It can mitigate and dissipate high heat more easily than other materials like FR4.

    So, the components of the PCBs easily pass the heat to the aluminum board and the board dissipates the heat to the air.

    On the other hand, LEDs create extensive heat which cannot be normally handled by using the normal materials. That is why the LED industry uses aluminium PCBs.

    Aluminium PCBs also extend the lifespan of LED devices.

    What Are The Significant Differences Between FR4 And Aluminium PCBs?

    Though aluminum and FR4 are two highly used materials for PCBs, there are many significant differences between them. Let’s check the comparison between aluminum PCB vs FR4.

    Performance Comparison

    The heat-dissipating power of aluminum is significantly greater than FR4. It is because the thermal conductivity of aluminum is great.

    Mechanical Property

    Aluminium PCBs are mechanically superior to FR4. This brings more strength and toughness for the aluminum substrate PCBs.

    Electromagnetic Shielding

    The electromagnetic shielding property is greater in aluminum than in FR4. This prevents the interferences and radiations of the PCBs.

    Aluminum Is Superior To FR4 In Performance

    Aluminum Is Superior To FR4 In Performance

    Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

    The rate of thermal expansion in FR4 is more than in aluminum. The large thermal expansion disrupts the physical structure of the PCBs. So, aluminum is more stable and generates a balanced expansion rate.

    What Are The Popular Testing Methods Of Aluminium PCBs?

    Testing is another important fact for PCBs. Because testing helps you to find out the faults of the PCBs. So, if you don’t want faulty PCBs which will drive you to financial loss, you just go through the PCB testing.

    There are several testing methods here to use for PCB testing. Following are some popular ones.

    In-Circuit Testing (ICT)

    ICT is the most common PCB testing method. It is also the most expensive as well. However, ICT testing covers the whole PCB circuits to test. It is designed for 100% coverage.

    ICT Is Designed For Covering 100 Percent Circuits

    ICT Is Designed For Covering 100 Percent Circuits

    Flying Probe Testing

    It is the less expensive version of ICT testing. The flying probe is designed for specific testing. This includes shorts, opens, capacitance, resistance, diode, and inductance of the PCBs.

    Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)

    In AOI, single 2d or two 3d cameras are used to take photos of the PCBs. After taking the photos, they are compared with the schematic of the PCB to ensure everything is manufactured correctly.

    How Do You Be Assured About The Quality Of An Aluminum PCB?

    To meet the designed requirements, you must ensure the quality of your aluminum PCBs. Because low quality PCB cannot serve as per your needs.

    So, how could you be assured about the quality of your aluminum-backed PCBs?

    Check the following facts on your PCBs to be assured about the quality of your PCBs.

    • Check if high-grade materials are used.
    • Meet the required design factors.
    • Meet the requirements of electrical connections.
    • The surface finish is appropriately applied.
    • Vias, holes, layers, etc., all are placed organized.
    • The PCBs are capable of withstanding high temperature, humidity, and resistance.
    • Make sure the mechanical properties comply with the installation requirements.
    What Are The Key Facts To Check For Choosing An Aluminum PCB Manufacturer?

    To get the best qualitative PCBs, you must select a highly experienced and skilled aluminum PCB manufacturer.

    To find out the best CB manufacturer, you should check for the following facts about the manufacturer.

    • Long-time industry experience.
    • Highly skilled.
    • Advanced manufacturing plant infrastructure.
    • Professional staff.
    • Extensive tools and machines for producing aluminum base PCBs.
    • IPC certification for manufacturing PCBs.
    How Do You Solder Aluminum PCB?

    Unlike other materials, the flux that is needed for soldering is specific to aluminum. For aluminum soldering, high in alloy works perfectly forming intermetallics. However, it takes time to form aluminum intermetallic.

    You also can use Sodium Persulfate for aluminum PCB soldering.

    The intermetallics ensure the stronger solder joint for aluminum. By the way, you need soldering iron, solder flux, soldering paste for soldering the aluminum PCBs.

    The following are the steps to solder a PCB.

    • Preparing soldering iron.
    • Preparing the surface of the PCB.
    • Placing the PCB components.
    • Generate some heat.
    • Solder the joints with the soldering iron. Be careful during the soldering.
    • Then finish up the process.

    Check on how to solder LEDs in metal-clad PCBs.

     

    Conclusion

    Aluminium PCBs are mostly used in the LED industry. However, the uses of aluminum base PCBs are wide.

    By the way, manufacturing aluminum-clad PCBs demands great skills and expertise. A highly experienced aluminum PCB manufacturer can produce extensive qualitative PCBs.

    So, to get your desired qualitative aluminum base PCBs, you may rely on PCBMay. PCBMay is the one-stop PCB manufacturer that will ensure you the highest PCB quality.

    So, get the best PCB quote, you may contact us with your requirements.

    Get Our Best Quotation
    Upload File
    Scroll to Top

    Get a Quick Quote!

    x
    Upload File

    Get a Quick Quote!

    x
    Upload File