Metal core PCB is an innovative solution for electronic circuits that require high power handling capacity and good thermal management. This technology allows for the incorporation of both circuitry and heatsinking in one board and is more effective than conventional FR4 PCBs that require additional heat sinks. Metal core PCBs also allow for denser component layouts and better structural rigidity. These advantages make them suitable for a wide range of electronic applications including LED lighting, automotive systems, power electronics and renewable energy.
A metal core PCB is a multilayer printed circuit board that has a core made from a metallic base plate and a copper-based layer. The copper layer is bonded to the core, which is then covered by a thermally conductive dielectric material. The combination of the core, dielectric layer, and copper layers offers excellent thermal conductivity and heat dissipation, making them ideal for advanced electronic circuits that generate a lot of heat.
The copper layer in a metal core PCB is usually thicker than those used in regular FR4-based circuit boards, which makes them more efficient at conducting electrical currents and dispersing heat. This helps to ensure that the circuit board can withstand higher power loads without overheating, resulting in longer product lifetimes and improved reliability. The core itself is made of a metal that offers superior mechanical strength and thermal conductivity. Aluminum is the most commonly used material for the core, due to its low cost and lightweight properties. However, copper and steel cores are also available, offering a good balance between thermal conductivity and mechanical strength.
MCPCBs are also more resistant to heat cycling, which reduces the risk of damage to components. In addition, they are less prone to delamination and micro-cracks caused by repeated heating and cooling cycles. This is particularly important in electronic devices that require frequent reflow soldering.
Another advantage of a metal core PCB is that it allows for greater design flexibility. This is because the layers can be arranged in different ways, and the copper layer can be bent or folded to accommodate various circuits or mounting requirements. This means that it can be more easily designed to fit in tight spaces or even in the corners of a package.
While a metal core PCB can be designed using standard PCB software, it requires additional expertise and experience to prepare and laminate the two layers together. It is best to work with a specialist PCB manufacturer that is familiar with this technology and can offer fast turnaround for production.