Heavy Copper PCB Manufacturing: Characteristics, Applications & Advantages

Printed circuit boards have become essential elements in modern electronic gadgets. They are found in simple devices and complex electronic equipment. However, there are different types of PCBs.

One type of circuit board you will find in heavy and complex devices is the heavy copper PCB. Moreover, the demand for heavy copper PCBs is high due to their numerous benefits. Here is all you need to know about heavy copper-printed circuit boards.

What is a Heavy Copper Printed Circuit Board?

Heavy copper PCBs are circuit boards designed for complex electronic devices. The inside and the outside layers are made with 3 oz of copper. The board is known as heavy copper because the plate is normally thick.

But to guarantee the reliability, the heavy copper PCB should have the correct thickness proportion. Hence, the boards need to be manufactured by a reliable heavy copper manufacturer.

Heavy copper PCB has many benefits that make it perfect for various applications. For instance, it is heavier and thicker so that it can handle higher voltage in complex devices.

Several electronic devices used in hostile areas need to resist heat stress. Hence, the incorporation of heavy copper PCB is an added advantage.

What are the advantages of Heavy Copper PCBs?

Compared to standard printed circuit boards, heavy copper has several advantages. Here are the main benefits of heavy copper PCBs.

1. They have a compact structure

One advantage of heavy copper PCB is their compact structure. The package size of heavy copper is compact and suitable for high-precision gadgets. In addition, the heavy copper circuit board can be able to pass high currents. This means it is a great one for complex electronic devices.

2. They are great for multi-use

A heavy copper PCB can be used in devices with fluctuating power. This is because they can endure a lot of weight without sacrificing the quality or the performance of the circuit board.

3. Heavy copper PCB is an outstanding conductor

Another great advantage of heavy copper PCB is that it is a great conductor. Hence, it is a good circuit board to be used in applications that require an outstanding conductor. With heavy copper, the current is well transferred.

4. It is strong and durable

Another advantage of heavy copper PCBs is their strong mechanical strength. Thus, they are used in various applications because they are strong, tough, and durable. They are excellent even when used in harsh climates.

5. The PCBs have an excellent thermal distribution

Heavy copper PCBs are commonly used in many applications because they offer good thermal distribution. Hence, you will find them in applications that require high speed and frequency. In addition, they are great for devices used in very cold or warm temperatures.

What is the difference between standard PCBs and heavy copper PCBs?

Heavy copper PCBs are different from standard PCBs. From how they are designed to how they are made, there are so many differences between the two. Here are the main differences between standard PCBs and heavy copper PCBs.

Duties

A standard PCB is made for lighter applications. On the other hand, heavy copper PCBs are designed for heavy tasks. This means you will only find heavy copper PCBs in complex devices while standard PCBs are on standard devices.

Manufacturing methods

Standard PCBs are attained through many methods that include plating, copper etching, CNC milling and others. But with heavy copper PCBs, you get them through etching and step plating.

Also with standard PCBs, the amount of copper used is 1 oz while the amount of copper used on heavy copper PCBs is 3 oz or more.

Applications

Standard PCBs are mainly used in light applications. You will find them in simple devices such as toys, tablets, commonly used gadgets, and others. On the other hand, heavy copper PCBs are used in complex applications that are found in harsh conditions.

How are heavy copper PCBs manufactured?

Just like the standard PCBs, heavy copper printed circuit boards undergo various steps. This is to ensure they perform their duties as expected. Etching or plating is one of the major steps when manufacturing heavy copper.

However, the type of plating or etching techniques used are a bit different from those used when manufacturing standard PCBs. This is to make sure the copper is thick enough for the applications.

Moreover, the circuit boards are electroplated to ensure the walls are thicker. This means the amount of copper needed is huge and the cost of production is higher than when manufacturing standard PCBs.

What are the Applications of Heavy Copper PCBs?

Since heavy copper PCBs come with many benefits, they are used in a wide range of applications. Here are some of the applications of heavy copper PCBs.

Military 

Heavy copper PCBs are circuit boards that can survive harsh environments. Hence, there are the best boards for military devices. Since most military gadgets are used in harsh climatic conditions, a heavy copper PCB is the best option.

Automotives

There are many applications where you will find heavy copper PCBs such as the automotive. This is because the gadgets in most cars are heavy duties and are used in severe conditions. They are used in many devices such as telephones, GPS devices, music systems, speedometers, and many others.

Computers

Several computers are heavy-duty. This means they have strong hardware than standard computers. Hence, the best PCB to use on those computers is the heavy copper printed circuit board.

Aerospace

Just like automotive and military equipment, the best circuit board for aerospace applications is heavy copper. Heavy copper boards are reliable in aerospace applications because they can survive in cold and hot temperatures.

Bottom-line

Heavy copper PCBs have become common in many applications because they come with numerous benefits. They are well-designed to survive in harsh conditions. Moreover, they are able to handle high voltage.

However, it is important to engage a reliable and experienced PCB manufacturer when in need of heavy copper PCBs. This is to ensure you get high-quality PCBs that can handle your needs.

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