Archive for the ‘Metal Core PCB’ Category

IMS PCB Material Selection & Design Guideline

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

Are you worried about how to choose IMS PCB material for your project? Let’s explore its definition, properties, datasheet, types, IMS PCB material selection and design guidelines through this blog.

Wrong choice of substrate material leads to too high thermal resistance?
Is the dielectric layer easy to delaminate during multi-layer IMS design?
Is the dielectric loss too large under high-frequency application?

Best Technology Can Provide:

Provide 5 standardized thermal conductivity levels (1.5~8W/mK); Free sample matching tool, generate selection report in 30 minutes.
Patented resin system, peel strength>1.8N/mm; Support 3-layer lamination process, provide design specification manual.
Df value as low as 0.002 (@10GHz); Equipped with HFSS simulation model library, plug-and-play.

Welcome to contact us if you have any request for IMS PCB or MCPCB: sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is IMS Material?

IMS material, known as insulated metal substrate, consists of a metal core, typically aluminum or copper, coated with a dielectric insulation layer and a conductive copper layer for circuit traces. This structure delivers outstanding thermal management, with aluminum-based versions achieving thermal conductivity of 1-3 W/(m·K), while copper-based variants exceed 400 W/(m·K) for accelerated heat dissipation.

It serves effectively in high-power applications like LED lighting systems and automotive electronics, where efficient cooling maintains device stability and extends operational lifespan under thermal stress.

IMS PCB Material Properties

Thermal Conductivity – Metal base (aluminum/copper) transfers heat 5-10x faster than FR4, keeping components cooler.
Electrical Insulation– Dielectric layer provides high voltage isolation (1-10kV) while allowing heat flow.
Mechanical Strength – Metal core resists bending/warping, ideal for heavy components or high-vibration environments.
Thermal Expansion – Low CTE (Coefficient of Thermal Expansion) matches components, reducing solder joint stress.
Temperature Resistance – Withstands 150-250℃ operating temperatures without degradation.
Weight Efficiency – Aluminum bases offer lightweight heat dissipation, crucial for automotive/aerospace.
Surface Flatness – Metal substrates ensure precise component mounting, critical for fine-pitch devices.

IMS PCB Board Material Datasheet

Property	Aluminum-Based IMS	Copper-Based IMS	Measurement Standard
Thermal Conductivity	1-3 W/(m·K)	>400 W/(m·K)	ASTM E1461
Dielectric Strength	≥4 kV/mm	≥4 kV/mm	IPC-TM-650 2.5.6
CTE (Z-axis)	12-15 ppm/°C	16-18 ppm/°C	IPC-TM-650 2.4.24
Tg (Glass Transition)	130-150°C	150-170°C	IPC-TM-650 2.4.25
Td (Decomposition)	300-320°C	350-380°C	IPC-TM-650 2.3.40
Volume Resistivity	≥10¹² Ω·cm	≥10¹² Ω·cm	IPC-TM-650 2.5.17
Flexural Strength	100-150 MPa	200-250 MPa	IPC-TM-650 2.4.4

What Are Types of IMS PCB Material?

Aluminum-Based IMS

Thermal Conductivity: 1-2.5W/m·K.
Application: LED lighting, consumer power supplies, and automotive controls where cost efficiency and moderate heat dissipation are prioritized.

Copper-Based IMS

Thermal Conductivity: 3-4W/m·K.
Application: High-power industrial drives, automotive powertrains, and aerospace components requiring extreme thermal performance.

Stainless Steel-Based IMS

Thermal Conductivity: 0.2-0.5W/m·K.
Application: Corrosive environments (e.g., marine, chemical processing) where mechanical durability outweighs thermal needs.

Composite Metal Core IMS

Structure: Aluminum/copper layer bonded to a thin copper circuit layer.
Application: Compact devices like mobile chargers and RF amplifiers needing both heat spreading and fine-pitch circuitry.

How to Choose IMS PCB Material?

IMC PCB Material Selection Guideline:

1. Assess Power Density Requirements

High-Power Applications (e.g., industrial drives, automotive power modules):
Choose copper-based IMS (thermal conductivity 3-4W/m·K) for power densities exceeding 5W/cm².
Standard Applications (e.g., LED lighting, consumer electronics):
Prioritize aluminum-based IMS (1-2.5W/m·K) for power densities below 5W/cm².

2. Align with Budget Constraints

Aluminum-based IMS costs 20-30% less than copper, making it suitable for cost-driven projects like household appliances.
Reserve copper-based IMS for premium sectors (aerospace, medical devices) where long-term reliability outweighs upfront costs.

3. Match Environmental Conditions

Corrosive Environments (marine, chemical processing): Select stainless steel-based IMS for corrosion resistance, despite lower thermal efficiency.
High-Temperature Zones (engine compartments, RF amplifiers): Use copper-based IMS with polyimide insulation (withstanding temperatures >200°C).

4. Account for Spatial Limitations

Compact Devices (mobile chargers, wearables): Choose aluminum composite IMS (0.8mm thickness) to balance heat dissipation and space efficiency.
Multi-Layer Designs: Prioritize copper-based IMS for structural rigidity, preventing warping in complex PCB stacks.

5. Validate Compliance with Standards

Critical Systems (automotive ECU, aerospace): Demand IPC-6013-certified copper-based IMS with documented thermal cycling test results.
Consumer Products (TVs, monitors): Aluminum-based IMS meets 85°C operational requirements for typical use cases.

6. Decision-Making Framework

Start with power density thresholds to narrow material options.
Cross-reference with budget allocation and environmental exposure.
Finalize with space constraints and certification needs.

7. Application Examples

Industrial Motor Control: Copper-based IMS for sustained 100A+ current handling.
Outdoor LED Displays: Aluminum-based IMS with conformal coating for humidity resistance.
Automotive Powertrain: Copper-based IMS + high-temperature dielectric for under-hood reliability.

8. Critical Precautions

Request third-party thermal resistance reports to verify supplier claims.
Avoid materials with unspecified dielectric breakdown voltage in high-voltage applications.
Test prototypes under real-world thermal stress before mass production.

How to Design IMS PCB Board?

IMS PCB Design Guideline:

1. Define Design Objectives

Clarify power density (W/cm²), operating environment (temperature/humidity), space limits, and budget. Example: Automotive ECU board needing 50A current handling in 100°C engine bay.

2. Material Selection Recap

High-Power (>5W/cm²): Copper-based IMS (3-4W/m·K).
Cost-Sensitive: Aluminum-based IMS (1-2.5W/m·K).
Corrosive Environments: Stainless steel-based IMS.

3. Layer Stackup Design

Place metal base directly below high-power components.
Keep dielectric layer thickness ≤100µm for optimal thermal performance.
Example: 2-layer IMS (copper base + 35µm circuit layer).

4. Thermal Management Strategies

Thermal Vias: Use 0.5mm diameter filled vias under hot components, spaced 1mm apart.
Reserved Cooling Zones: Allocate 30-50% of board area as unpopulated metal regions.
Component Placement: Center power devices (MOSFETs/IGBTs) over the metal core; keep ≥2mm spacing between high-power parts.

5. Electrical Layout Optimization

Trace Width: Use 3oz (105µm) copper for traces carrying >50A. Widen traces by 2x near heat sources.
Avoid Sharp Bends: Maintain ≥3x trace width for bend radii to reduce resistance.
Impedance Control: For RF/high-speed signals, keep dielectric thickness consistent (±10µm tolerance).

6. Manufacturing Compatibility

Design Rules: Minimum trace width/spacing ≥0.2mm for aluminum IMS; ≥0.15mm for copper IMS.
Solder Mask: Remove mask in thermal zones to maximize metal exposure.
Panelization: Add 2mm border around boards for handling during assembly.

7. Validation & Testing

Thermal Imaging: Test under max load to identify hotspots. Junction temp should stay ≤85°C.
Electrical Testing: Verify current capacity and signal integrity (e.g., <5% voltage drop).
Reliability Testing: Conduct thermal cycling (-40°C to +125°C, 100 cycles) and vibration tests (2G RMS).

IMS PCB Board Design Considerations

Thermal Management‌

Base Material Selection‌: Aluminum (1-3 W/mK) suits cost-sensitive, moderate-heat applications like LED lighting. Copper (>400 W/mK) is ideal for high-power modules requiring rapid heat dissipation.
Dielectric Thickness‌: Thinner layers (50-100μm) improve heat transfer but reduce voltage isolation. Match thickness to operational voltage (e.g., 100μm for <1kV).
Component Placement‌: Position high-heat components (e.g., power ICs, LEDs) directly over the metal core to maximize thermal path efficiency.

Electrical Performance‌

Trace Width/Spacing‌: Wider traces reduce resistance for high-current paths. Maintain ≥0.3mm spacing for 1kV isolation in standard designs.
Via Usage‌: Avoid thermal vias in the dielectric layer, they disrupt heat flow. Route signals through peripheral non-metal zones.
High-Frequency Limits‌: IMS materials exhibit higher dielectric loss than FR-4. Limit use in RF circuits (>500MHz).

Mechanical Design‌

Board Thickness‌: Standard metal cores (1.0-3.0mm) prevent flexing but increase weight. For lightweight needs, consider 1.0mm aluminum.
Mounting Hardware‌: Use insulated standoffs to prevent short circuits with the metal base. Account for CTE mismatch, aluminum expands 23ppm/°C versus 17ppm/°C for copper.
Cutouts & Edges‌: Smooth, rounded edges minimize stress concentrations. Internal cutouts require laser processing to avoid burrs.

Manufacturing & Cost‌

Fabrication Tolerance‌: IMS requires specialized drilling (carbide bits) due to metal hardness. Allow ±0.1mm for hole positioning.
Panel Utilization‌: Standard panel sizes (18″×24″) optimize cost. Odd shapes increase waste.
Finish Options‌: HASL is cost-effective but limits thermal performance. ENIG (Ni/Au) enhances solderability for fine-pitch components.

Application-Specific Tips‌

LED Arrays‌: Use 1.5mm aluminum cores with 80μm dielectric to balance cost and heat dissipation (ΔT<15°C at 5W/cm²).
Automotive Inverters‌: Copper cores with 150μm dielectric handle 10-15A/mm² current density and 125°C ambient temperatures.
Aerospace‌: Stainless steel bases provide vibration resistance but require thermal interface materials (TIMs) to offset lower conductivity.

How to Select A Reliable IMS PCB Manufacturer?

Tips for selecting a reliable IMS PCB manufacturer:

Confirm Thermal Management Expertise‌: Verify experience with aluminum/copper cores and UL-certified dielectric materials for effective heat dissipation in high-power applications‌.
Demand Precision Manufacturing Capabilities‌: Ensure ≤50μm laser drilling accuracy for microvias and tight tolerances (±25μm) critical for thermal performance‌.
Require Relevant Quality Certifications‌: Prioritize IATF 16949 (automotive) or ISO 13485 (medical) certified suppliers with documented thermal cycling tests (-40°C to +150°C)‌.
Evaluate True Production Speed‌: Compare realistic lead times. Proven manufacturers deliver prototypes in 7 days, 30% faster than industry norms without compromising quality‌.
Insist on Transparent Costing‌: Avoid hidden fees. Competitive suppliers offer fixed pricing with 5-15% savings through efficient material utilization‌.
Check Scalability from Prototype to Volume‌: Choose partners handling orders from 5 panels to mass production seamlessly within their facilities‌.
Prioritize Technical Partnership‌: Select manufacturers providing free 24-hour DFM feedback and thermal simulation support to optimize your design‌.
Experience the Best Technology Advantage‌: Get a rapid quote for your IMS PCB project today. We combine certified quality, 7-day prototype turnaround, and cost-competitive pricing—ensuring your thermal management solution excels. Request your quote now.

Ready to start your project?‌ Contact ‌Best Technology‌ today for competitive pricing, guaranteed fast delivery, and certified quality. Let’s optimize your thermal management solution together: sales@bestpcbs.com.

Tags:ims pcb, Ims pcb manufacturer, IMS PCB material
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Thermal Substrates MCPCB, Thermal Solution Supplier

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

What is thermal substrates MCPCB? This guide explores its thermal properties, specifications, benefits, applications, material selection, design strategies, and supplier criteria for optimized thermal management.

Why do traditional PCBs always overheat and fail in high-power scenarios?
‌How to balance heat dissipation performance and production costs?
‌How to avoid thermal stress tearing in multi-layer complex designs?

Best Technology Can Provide:

‌Precise thermal conductivity design‌ – Customized metal stacking (copper/aluminum hybrid substrate) + high thermal conductivity insulation layer (8W/m·K), reducing temperature difference by 40%.
‌Cost-optimized architecture‌ – Partitioned heat dissipation solution: copper in critical areas and aluminum in non-critical areas, saving 30%+ in costs.
‌Stress-resistant process‌ – Nano-ceramic filling + CTE matching technology, passed 1,000 -40°C~125°C cycle tests, zero delamination.

Feel free to contact Best Technology if you have any request for MCPCB: sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is Thermal Substrates MCPCB?

Thermal Substrate MCPCB, short for Metal Core Printed Circuit Board, is a specialized type of printed circuit board designed primarily to enhance heat dissipation in electronic systems by integrating a thermally conductive metal base, such as aluminum or copper, which efficiently transfers heat away from mounted components to prevent overheating and ensure stability.

Its layered construction typically comprises a copper circuit layer for electrical routing, an insulating dielectric layer made from polymer materials filled with ceramics to balance electrical isolation and thermal conductivity, and the metal core that acts as a heat spreader, facilitating faster thermal transfer than standard alternatives.

Thermal Substrates MCPCB Specifications

Parameter Category	‌Typical Specification Range	Technical Notes
‌Metal Base Material	Aluminum (Al) / Copper (Cu)	Al base: 1.3-2.2 W/m·K thermal conductivity; Cu base: ~400 W/m·K (higher cost)
Insulating Layer Material	Ceramic-filled epoxy resin/Polyimide	Thermal conductivity: 1.3-8 W/m·K; Operating range: -40°C~140°C‌
Copper Foil Thickness	1oz~3oz (35~105μm)	3oz thick copper for high-current applications; Requires CTE matching‌
Thermal Resistance (θ)	0.5~5.0°C·cm²/W	1mm Aluminum substrate: ~1.5°C·cm²/W (increases with insulating layer thickness)‌
‌Max Operating Temperature	105°C~140°C	Sustained exposure >105°C accelerates insulating layer aging
Dielectric Strength	2kV~4kV (AC)	1mm insulation thickness withstands 2.5kV AC‌
‌Surface Finish	HASL/ENIG/OSP	ENIG recommended for high-frequency applications (reduced signal loss)‌
‌Machining Tolerance	±0.1mm (contour)/±0.05mm (drilling)	Laser cutting: ±0.02mm precision (increases cost by ~50%)‌
‌RoHS Compliance	IEC 62321 Standard	Lead content <1000ppm; Cadmium <100ppm

Thermal Substrates MCPCB Stackup

Typical Stackup Configuration (Bottom to Top):

1. Metal Base Layer (Heat Dissipation Backbone)

Material: Aluminum (1-2.5W/m·K) or Copper (3-4W/m·K)
Role: Directly transfers heat from components to external heat sinks, reducing junction temperature by 30-50% vs. FR4.

2. Thermal Dielectric Layer (Critical Heat Path)

Material: Ceramic-filled epoxy (0.8-3W/m·K)
Role: Bridges electrical insulation and thermal conductivity, overcoming traditional 0.3W/m·K limits. Thickness typically 50-150μm.

3. Circuit Layer (Functional & Thermal Optimization)

Copper Thickness: 1oz (35μm) for low power; ≥2oz (70μm+) for high current
Role: Thick copper reduces I²R losses, minimizing self-heating in traces.

What Are Advantages of Thermal Substrates PCB?

High-Efficiency Cooling – Metal base conducts heat 5-10x faster than standard PCBs, keeping components 30-50% cooler.
Enhanced Reliability – Reduces thermal stress, doubling or tripling the lifespan of LEDs, power semiconductors, and high-current devices.
Space-Saving Design – Built-in metal heatsink eliminates bulky external cooling systems, ideal for compact electronics like automotive modules.
High Current Handling – Supports thick copper traces (2oz+) to safely manage currents over 100A without overheating.
Dimensional Stability – Low thermal expansion minimizes warping, ensuring reliability in multi-layer or high-temperature environments.

What Are Applications of Thermal Substrates PCB?

High-Power LED Lighting – Ensures stable operation of COB/LED modules by dissipating heat directly through metal cores, preventing lumen depreciation.
Automotive Electronics – Critical for powertrains, ECUs, and battery management systems operating in high-temperature environments without active cooling.
Industrial Power Modules – Supports VFDs, motor drives, and inverters requiring efficient heat removal from IGBTs/MOSFETs under heavy loads.
Telecom Infrastructure – Enables compact RF amplifiers and base station components to handle high frequencies without thermal throttling.
Consumer Electronics – Used in gaming consoles, laptop chargers, and high-end audio amplifiers where space is limited but heat generation is high.

How to Choose the Material of Thermal Substrate MCPCB?

Thermal Substrate MCPCB Material Selection Guide

Power Density

High Power (>5W/cm²): Choose copper base (3-4W/m·K) for superior heat spreading.
Moderate Power: Aluminum base (1-2.5W/m·K) balances cost and performance.

Cost Sensitivity

Budget-Critical: Aluminum substrates cost 20-30% less than copper.
Performance-Priority: Copper justifies premium for extreme thermal demands.

Environmental Conditions

High Humidity/Corrosion Risk: Anodized aluminum or nickel-plated copper.
Extreme Heat (≥150℃): Copper with high-temp dielectric (e.g., polyimide).

Space Constraints

Ultra-Thin Designs: Aluminum (0.8mm) enables compact heat dissipation.
Multi-Layer Needs: Copper’s rigidity supports complex stackups without warping.

Reliability Requirements

Automotive/Aerospace: Copper with low-CTE dielectric minimizes thermal cycling stress.
Consumer Electronics: Aluminum meets standard lifespan needs at lower cost.

Quick Decision Methods

Cost > Performance: Aluminum + standard dielectric.
Performance > Cost: Copper + ceramic-filled dielectric.
Harsh Environments: Copper + high-temp insulation (polyimide/benzocyclobutene).

How to Design Thermal Substrate MCPCB for High Power Applications?

High-Power MCPCB Thermal Design Guide

1. Base Material Selection

Use copper substrate (3-4W/m·K) for power densities >5W/cm². Aluminum (1-2.5W/m·K) suits moderate loads.

2. Layer Stackup Priority

Place metal base layer directly below high-power components to form a vertical heat path. Keep dielectric layer thickness ≤100μm.

3. Copper Trace Optimization

Use 3oz (105μm) copper for all high-current traces (>50A). Widen traces by 2x near MOSFETs/IGBTs.
Avoid sharp bends in power traces to reduce resistance.

4. Thermal Via Strategy

Fill 0.5mm diameter vias under hot components with copper. Space vias 1mm apart in a grid pattern.
Connect vias directly to the metal base layer.

5. Component Layout Rules

Center power devices over the metal core. Maintain ≥2mm spacing between high-power components.
Orient heat-sensitive parts (e.g., capacitors) away from thermal zones.

6. Reserved Cooling Space

Allocate 40% of board area as unpopulated “thermal zones” directly above the metal base.
Use solder mask removal in these zones to maximize metal exposure.

7. Validation Protocol

Perform thermal imaging at 120% rated load to identify hotspots.
Measure component junction temperatures – must stay ≤85℃ for reliable operation.

How to Design Thermal Substrate MCPCB for High Power Applications?

How to Select A MCPCB Thermal Solution Supplier?

Methods about how to select a MCPCB thermal solution supplier:

Technical Expertise: Verify experience in high-power applications (e.g., LED, automotive, industrial). Ask for case studies showing thermal performance data.
Material & Process Control: Ensure suppliers use certified materials (e.g., ISO 9001 for dielectric layers) and have in-house thermal conductivity testing.
Prototyping Capability: Prioritize suppliers offering free/low-cost prototypes with thermal imaging reports to validate design feasibility.
Thermal Simulation Support: Choose suppliers providing CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis to predict heat distribution before production.
Quality Assurance: Check for IPC-6012/6013 compliance and ask for third-party test reports (e.g., thermal resistance, dielectric breakdown).
Lead Time & Scalability: Confirm standard lead times (ideally ≤2 weeks for prototypes) and capacity to scale to 10K+ units monthly.
Cost Transparency: Request itemized quotes separating material, fabrication, and testing costs. Avoid suppliers with hidden tooling fees.
Post-Production Support: Ensure suppliers offer failure analysis and warranty coverage (minimum 1 year for thermal performance defects).

Welcome to contact Best Technology if you have any request for MCPCB thermal solution: sales@bestpcbs.com.

Tags:MCPCB, Thermal Substrates MCPCB
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

Insulated Metal Base PCB, IMS PCB Manufacturer

Monday, July 21st, 2025

Insulated Metal Base PCB is a type of circuit board designed for high heat dissipation. It features a metal core—usually aluminum or copper—covered by a thin insulating layer and a copper circuit layer. This structure allows heat to transfer away from components quickly, making it ideal for high-power applications like LED lighting, power supplies, and automotive systems.

Insulated Metal Base PCB, IMS PCB manufacturer

What is IMS in PCB?

IMS stands for Insulated Metal Substrate. It’s a specific type of printed circuit board designed to transfer heat away from high-power components.

Unlike traditional boards made of FR4 or fiberglass, IMS PCBs have a metal base layer, typically aluminum or copper. Above this, there’s a thin dielectric insulation layer that separates the metal from the copper circuitry. This structure allows the board to carry electrical signals while efficiently pulling heat away from components.

What’s the IMS PCB definition?

In simple terms, an IMS PCB is a single-layer PCB with a metal backing that provides better thermal conductivity than standard materials.

This type of board is especially common in high-power applications like LED drivers, power supplies, automotive lighting, and industrial equipment.

The insulation layer, though thin, plays a critical role. It ensures the circuit functions properly while still allowing heat to pass through to the metal core. This sandwich-like structure is what sets IMS PCBs apart from standard designs.

What materials are used in IMS board PCB production?

Here’s what goes into a high-performance IMS board PCB:

Metal Base Layer: Most commonly aluminum, though copper is used in high-demand environments. Aluminum is preferred for its cost-efficiency, lightweight nature, and good thermal performance.

Dielectric Layer: This is the heart of heat transfer. It must be thin enough to allow thermal flow, yet strong enough to withstand voltage stress.

Copper Foil Layer: The circuit layer, typically 1–3 oz thick. It’s where your electronic components connect and signals travel.

Surface Finish: Surface treatments like ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold) or OSP (Organic Solderability Preservatives) ensure strong soldering and prevent oxidation.

At BEST Technology, we tailor each IMS board to your exact needs. Whether you need copper or aluminum base materials, custom thicknesses, or unique finishes, we deliver to your standards.

How does IMS manufacturing work?

The IMS manufacturing process is precise and tailored. Here’s how we do it at BEST Technology:

Base Preparation: We start with high-purity aluminum or copper plates. These are cleaned and prepped to remove any contaminants.

Lamination: A dielectric material is laminated onto the metal base. This insulation controls both heat transfer and electrical isolation.

Copper Cladding: A copper foil is applied on top of the dielectric. It forms the base of your circuit paths.

Imaging and Etching: Using UV exposure, we apply your circuit pattern. Then we etch away excess copper to leave behind only your desired traces.

Drilling and Plating: Holes for mechanical support or electrical connections are precisely drilled and plated.

Solder Mask and Finish: A solder mask is applied, followed by a surface finish that fits your assembly method.

Testing: Electrical testing ensures every circuit functions perfectly. Our factory performs 100% inspection before shipment.

How does IMS PCB handle heat?

The beauty of IMS PCBs lies in their thermal path. Heat from components passes through the copper trace into the dielectric layer, and from there, it’s transferred to the metal base. The base, often aluminum, quickly spreads and dissipates the heat across the board or into a heat sink.

This keeps the board cooler, even under high-power loads.

Compared to standard FR4 boards, IMS PCBs have up to 10 times better thermal conductivity. This directly reduces component stress, avoids early failure, and boosts long-term reliability.

What are the benefits of IMS PCB?

Superior Heat Dissipation: IMS PCBs are engineered to manage heat—fast and efficiently.

Compact Design: With better thermal control, components can be placed closer together. This allows for smaller, lighter devices.

Longer Lifespan: Cooler components last longer. That means fewer repairs, better reliability, and a higher-quality end product.

High Mechanical Strength: The metal base adds stiffness and reduces vibration. Ideal for automotive, aerospace, and outdoor equipment.

Cost Savings Over Time: While slightly more expensive upfront, IMS boards can reduce the need for extra cooling systems.

High Power Density: Great for applications like LED drivers, where compact, powerful systems are a must.

In short, IMS PCBs deliver power, durability, and efficiency—the perfect trio for demanding industries.

What is an IMS board PCB used for?

IMS PCBs are extremely versatile and can be used in systems where heat and power are a concern. Common uses include:

LED lighting modules: Street lights, automotive headlights, stadium lighting.
Power electronics: Converters, adapters, power distribution units.
Automotive systems: Brake systems, engine control units, infotainment panels.
Industrial control: Motor drivers, automation panels, heavy machinery.
Medical devices: Imaging equipment, surgical lighting, diagnostic systems.
Telecom equipment: Base stations, antennas, and signal amplifiers.

These boards shine in any place where compact size and high power must coexist safely.

What is the best PCB manufacturer?

When you’re sourcing IMS boards, the manufacturer you choose makes all the difference.

BEST Technology stands out as one of the most reliable IMS PCB manufacturers in China. Here’s why:

Established expertise: Since 2006, we’ve focused on MCPCBs and IMS boards, delivering quality without compromise.

Certified reliability: We hold certifications like UL, ISO9001, ISO13485, IATF16949, and SGS—backing our quality promise.

Full turnkey service: From PCB design to assembly, we manage it all. This shortens lead times and streamlines your workflow.

Strong factory support: Our 30,000㎡ plant and 229+ staff allow for large-scale production with consistent results.

Competitive pricing: We manage costs smartly to give you maximum value for your investment.

Most importantly, we believe in partnerships. Our team works closely with yours, offering one-on-one assistance, custom solutions, and a 48-hour technical response policy.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re designing compact LED modules or building industrial power units, an IMS board offers the reliability and performance you need.

As a professional IMS PCB manufacturer, BEST Technology can provide trusted expertise, service and quality. With over 19 years of experience, comprehensive certifications and a customer-first philosophy, we are proud to be a reliable supplier for all your IMS board needs.

Have a project in mind? Reach out to us today at sales@bestpcbs.com

Tags:IMS manufacturing, Ims pcb definition, Ims pcb manufacturer, Insulated Metal Base PCB
Posted in mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, PCB Technology | No Comments »

Metal core PCB – Trusted MCPCB Manufacturer in China

Monday, July 21st, 2025

Metal Core PCBs (MCPCBs) are at the heart of high-power LED lights, power supplies, and automotive systems. As a professional MCPCB manufacturer, BEST Technology has been dedicated to this industry since 2006, delivering top-quality products with speed, precision, and care.

Metal core PCB – Trusted MCPCB Manufacturer in China

What is an MCPCB?

An MCPCB, short for Metal Core Printed Circuit Board, is a type of PCB that has a base metal material as its core. Unlike traditional FR4 boards, MCPCBs are built on aluminum or copper substrates, which help transfer heat away from critical components.

They are designed to improve heat dissipation, reduce component failure, and extend the lifespan of electronics. This makes them ideal for high-power applications such as LED lighting, telecom equipment, and automotive electronics.

The structure typically includes a thermal insulating layer, a metal base (usually aluminum or copper), and a copper circuit layer. Some even include multiple layers for more complex functions.

Advantages of Metal Core PCB

First, heat dissipation. Traditional PCBs struggle to manage the heat from high-power components. MCPCBs, thanks to their metal base, dissipate heat quickly and keep components cool.

Second, mechanical stability. The metal core adds strength and reduces deformation, especially in environments with high temperatures or mechanical stress.

Third, compact design. With improved heat management, components can be placed closer together without the risk of overheating. This reduces the overall size of your product.

Fourth, longer lifespan. When components run cooler, they last longer.

Fifth, cost efficiency. While slightly more expensive than standard FR4 boards, MCPCBs often reduce the need for heat sinks and other cooling methods, which can actually lower overall costs in the final product.

What matters most in MCPCB design?

Here are the key things that matter in MCPCB design:

Thermal management: You need to calculate heat flow properly. Choose the right core material (aluminum or copper) based on your power needs.

Layer structure: Decide whether a single, double, or multilayer board fits your application.

Trace width and spacing: For high currents, traces must be wider. But spacing still needs to meet safety standards.

Dielectric layer: This insulation layer between the metal base and the copper circuit should be thin for good thermal transfer, but strong enough for durability.

Solder mask and surface finish: High-temperature-resistant materials ensure the board doesn’t peel or degrade under stress.

Partnering with a reliable MCPCB manufacturer ensures your design is optimized for performance, manufacturability, and cost.

How is MCPCB manufacturing done?

At BEST Technology, our MCPCB manufacturing process is built for quality and efficiency.

Material Selection: We begin with the right metal base—aluminum or copper—depending on your needs.

Lamination: The dielectric layer is applied over the metal base, followed by a copper foil layer.

Circuit Imaging: A photoresist is applied and exposed to UV light through a mask that outlines your circuit.

Etching: Unwanted copper is removed, leaving the desired circuit paths.

Drilling: Holes for vias or mounting are precisely drilled.

Plating: Copper plating is added where needed for conductivity.

Solder Mask: A protective layer is added to shield the circuits.

Surface Finish: We use finishes like HASL, ENIG, or OSP to improve solderability.

Testing: Every board undergoes strict electrical and visual tests to ensure zero defects.

With over 19 years of experience, our 30,000㎡ factory and 229+ team members ensure your order is handled with care, from start to finish.

How do I identify SMD components on MCPCBs?

SMD parts are mounted directly on the surface. They are usually smaller than through-hole components and don’t require holes in the board. On an MCPCB, you’ll typically find:

Flat rectangular resistors
Small IC chips with legs around the sides
Tiny capacitors shaped like pills or boxes
Diodes with a stripe to indicate polarity

Most components are labeled with part numbers or codes. In some cases, silkscreen text on the board helps identify each part.

A good LED MCPCB manufacturer like BEST Technology will make these markings clear and organized, ensuring your assembly and repair processes are smooth and error-free.

Copper vs AAluminum core boards: Which is better?

Aluminum core boards are more common. They are cost-effective, easy to process, and offer good heat dissipation. Ideal for LED lighting, audio devices, and power supplies.

Copper core boards offer better thermal conductivity and mechanical strength. They are used in more demanding applications like automotive, aerospace, or heavy industrial equipment.

In short:

If you’re building consumer products or LED lights, aluminum is perfect.

If you need maximum heat performance and durability, copper is worth the investment.

BEST Technology offers both options and can guide you through the best choice for your application.

What is an MC-PCB used for?

MCPCBs are everywhere. They are widely used in:

LED lighting systems (street lights, automotive headlights, backlight units)
Power supplies (adapters, converters)
Telecom and networking equipment
Automotive electronics
Audio systems
Industrial control panels
Medical devices

The metal core allows these applications to run cooler, last longer, and remain stable in harsh environments.

How to choose a MCPCB manufacturer?

Selecting the right MCPCB manufacturer is crucial.

Experience: Long-standing expertise shows reliability. BEST Technology has specialized in MCPCB since 2006.

Certifications: Look for standards like UL, ISO9001, ISO13485, IATF16949, and SGS. These ensure quality control and international compliance.

Factory capability: A large, modern factory means faster delivery, better consistency, and high capacity. Our 30,000㎡ site handles up to 100,000 PCBs per day.

Technical support: We provide one-on-one sales assistance and 48-hour technical responses.

Turnkey service: From design to assembly, all processes are concentrated in one manufacturer, which can reduce costs and delays.

Competitive pricing: You shouldn’t have to trade quality for cost. We optimize production to offer the best value for your investment.

Who is the best manufacturer of MCPCB in China?

BEST Technology has proudly earned the trust of global clients across Europe, America, Israel, and India. With nearly two decades of focus on MCPCBs, we offer:

Fast lead times
Reliable quality
Full certifications
Custom design services
Turnkey assembly
Strong after-sales support

From prototype to mass production, we’re committed to helping you achieve your goals with efficiency and care.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right MCPCB manufacturers is very important. BEST Technology combines 19+ years of expertise, advanced facilities, and a client-first approach to deliver high-quality, cost-effective metal core PCBs.

Whether you’re developing LED lighting, automotive systems, or industrial electronics, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Get in touch with us today at sales@bestpcbs.com

Tags:LED MCPCB Manufacturer, mcpcb manufacturers, mcpcb manufacturing
Posted in mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, PCB Technology | No Comments »

LED Light Circuit Board Design Guide | LED PCB Acknowledge

Friday, July 18th, 2025

If you’ve ever wondered how your LED lights work or thought about building your own lighting system, understanding LED light circuit board design is the perfect place to start. From simple desk lamps to advanced automotive lights, LED circuit boards power nearly every type of modern lighting. These boards are more than just a place to hold LEDs—they help control current, manage heat, and ensure your lights stay bright and stable.

What Is an LED Light Circuit Board?

An LED light circuit board is a printed circuit board (PCB) specially designed to support and power light-emitting diodes (LEDs). It provides a stable platform where LEDs are mounted and connected through copper traces that guide the current flow.

These boards are used everywhere—home lights, office lighting, headlights, signs, and electronic displays. What makes LED PCBs stand out is their ability to manage heat. Since LEDs generate heat while working, especially high-brightness ones, the PCB helps transfer that heat away. Many of these boards are made of aluminum or use metal-core designs to improve thermal performance.

LED Light Circuit Board Design Guide | LED PCB Acknowledge

LED Circuit Board Diagram

A circuit diagram is like a map of your LED board. It shows how the parts connect to each other and how electricity flows. This is where you plan your setup before building the actual board.

In this example:

VCC is the power supply (like a 12V battery or adapter)
The resistor limits the current
The LED lights up as current flows from positive to ground

In real boards, especially SMD LED PCB boards, this wiring is replaced with copper tracks. The LEDs are surface-mounted, meaning they’re soldered directly on the board. Multiple LEDs can be placed in series, parallel, or a combination, depending on your application.

You’ll also see labels for input voltage, ground, and other components like capacitors, diodes, or voltage regulators if your board is more advanced.

LED Light Circuit Board Design Guide

If you want to design an LED light circuit board for commercial or long-term use, there are a few more things to consider beyond a simple circuit.

1. Choose the LED Type Wisely

Your LED type affects layout, current, and heat. For general lighting, SMD LEDs (such as 2835 or 5050 types) are common. For signage or high-power use, COB LEDs may be better.

2. Decide on Board Material

If your LEDs run hot, like in street lights or industrial lights, go for aluminum or metal-core PCBs. These manage heat much better than traditional FR4 boards. Below is a LED pcb board used aluminum base.

3. Include Heat Management

Use thermal vias, heat sinks, or thicker copper layers if the board carries high currents. Heat buildup can shorten LED life or reduce brightness.

4. Control Current

Never rely on direct voltage for LEDs. Use resistors or constant current drivers. LEDs create heat, especially if many are packed closely. Too much heat lowers their lifespan. Good thermal design includes:

Thick copper layers (≥1oz)
Thermal vias under LED pads
Aluminum base to move heat away
Heat sinks or thermal pads if needed

5. Pay Attention to Trace Width

High currents need wider traces. Use trace calculators to ensure your copper width is suitable. Also, avoid sharp 90° turns—these can stress the signal and cause EMI problems. Use 45° angles to keep signals smooth and reduce heat buildup.

6. Place Components Smartly

Keep resistors close to the LEDs. Separate power and signal lines. Leave space for heat dissipation or mounting. Some other tips including:

Place resistors near the LED they control
Keep power and ground lines wide and short
Group similar LEDs in rows or grids
Leave space for mounting holes or connectors
Keep heat-generating parts away from sensitive ones

7. Test Points and Labels

Add test pads for checking voltage and current during production or troubleshooting. Label input/output pads clearly to help during assembly. Here is a guide of how to make LED circuit board.

How Many LED Light Fixtures Can Be on One Circuit?

This question comes up a lot in home lighting and commercial installations. The answer depends on how much power each fixture uses and what the circuit breaker rating is.

Let’s break it down:

A standard 15A breaker on 120V power provides 1800 watts.
A 20A breaker gives you 2400 watts.

Suppose each LED fixture consumes 10 watts. Then on a 15A circuit:

1800W / 10W = 180 fixtures

But you should never use 100% of the circuit’s capacity. A safe rule is to use up to 80%.

So, the real number is:

1800W × 0.8 = 1440W → 144 LED fixtures (10W each)

What Happens If You Wire an LED the Wrong Way?

LEDs are diodes, which means they conduct electricity in one direction only. If you connect them backward:

They won’t light up because current can’t flow
In some cases, if voltage is too high, the LED might get damaged

This is why LED symbols in diagrams have a direction (anode to cathode). Many modern circuits include a protection diode or a reverse-polarity safeguard to prevent damage.

Always double-check before soldering or applying power. Getting the polarity right is crucial for the LED to work.

Should I Put a Resistor Before an LED?

Yes. A resistor is essential unless you’re using a regulated current driver.

LEDs don’t limit their own current. If you connect them directly to a power supply, even at a “safe” voltage, they can draw too much current, overheat, and burn out.

The resistor acts like a gate. It lets the right amount of current pass through and drops the extra voltage. Even LED strips usually have built-in resistors. For DIY boards, always calculate and add the correct resistor for every LED or LED group.

LED Board Design Price

The LED board design price depends on several factors:

Factor	Cost Impact
Board Size	Larger boards cost more
LED Type (SMD vs. COB)	COB boards may be pricier
PCB Material (FR4 vs. Aluminum)	Aluminum is more expensive
Quantity	Larger batches lower per-board cost
Layers	Multilayer boards cost more
Assembly Required	Soldered boards cost extra

Typical costs for LED circuit boards:

Basic LED board (single-layer FR4): $0.50 – $2 per piece
Aluminum SMD LED board: $1 – $4 per piece
Custom-designed and assembled board: $5 – $20 depending on design complexity

For mass production, you can get volume discounts and better pricing through professional LED PCB manufacturers like Best Technology. We provide free DFM checks, fast quotes, and one-stop services including prototype to volume production.

FAQs

1. What is a SMD LED PCB board?

It’s a printed circuit board designed to mount Surface-Mounted Device (SMD) LEDs directly onto the board, used in lighting panels, strips, and signs.

2. How long does an LED circuit board last?

With good design and cooling, LED boards can last 30,000 to 50,000 hours or more.

3. Can I connect LEDs in series or parallel?

Yes. Series connections share the same current; parallel connections share the same voltage. Choose based on your power source.

4. What software should I use to design LED boards?

KiCAD, Altium Designer, EasyEDA, and Eagle are commonly used tools for creating LED PCB layouts.

5. What happens if you put too many lights on a circuit?

If you connect too many LED lights to one circuit, the total power draw may exceed the circuit’s capacity. This can lead to overloaded breakers, flickering lights, or even tripped fuses. In worst cases, wires may overheat, posing a fire risk.

If you’re planning to build or order custom LED light circuit boards, Best Technology is ready to help. We support everything from LED PCB board quick-turn prototypes to mass production, all with professional engineering support and strict quality checks.

Tags:led board design price, led circuit board diagram, led light circuit board design, smd led pcb board
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Copper PCB Plate Design Guidelines & Thermal Solution

Friday, July 18th, 2025

How to design copper PCB plate? This guide covers substrate specs, design guidelines, thermal solution. manufacturing processes for copper PCB plate.

Are your 5G base station power devices experiencing performance degradation due to insufficient heat dissipation?
New energy vehicle PCBs are delaminated under high temperature conditions. How to break through the reliability bottleneck?
In high current carrying scenarios, does the thermal expansion coefficient of traditional FR4 substrates affect device life?

Best Technology Can Provide:

Customized copper substrates – through the combination of ≥2oz copper thickness + ceramic filling dielectric layer, the thermal conductivity is increased to 400W/mK, ensuring that the temperature rise of high-power devices is reduced by 30%.
CTE matching technology – using copper/aluminum composite substrates, the thermal expansion coefficient is perfectly matched with semiconductor devices to avoid the risk of high-temperature delamination.
Modular thermal management design – integrated embedded heat pipes and optimized via arrays to achieve stable operation at 15A/mm² current density.

Welcome to contact us if you have any request for copper PCB: sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is A Copper PCB Plate?

A copper PCB plate is a printed circuit board using solid copper as its primary substrate material. This design fundamentally replaces standard insulating substrates like FR-4 with a dense copper core, serving simultaneously as the circuit’s structural foundation and primary heat dissipation medium.

The construction bonds dielectric insulation layers and conductive copper foils directly to the copper base. This integration leverages copper’s inherent thermal conductivity to absorb and transfer heat from electronic components, establishing an efficient thermal pathway while maintaining electrical isolation.

Copper Substrate PCB Specification

Parameter	Specification Range
Copper Thickness	Standard: 1oz(35μm), 2oz(70μm)｜Heavy: 3oz(105μm)-10oz(350μm)｜Selective: 3-8oz
Substrate Thickness	0.2mm-3.2mm (Aluminum core typical 1.0mm/1.5mm/2.0mm)
Thermal Conductivity	1-8W/(m·K) (Aluminum core typical 2-3W)
Dielectric Strength	AC 1kV-4kV (2.5kV@1mm substrate spacing)
Max Panel Size	Single/Double-side: 800×1200mm｜Multilayer: 610×1100mm
Copper Type	Rolled (high ductility)｜Electrodeposited (standard)
Surface Finish	HASL(LF), ENIG, OSP, Immersion Ag (ENIG preferred for impedance control)
Min Trace/Space	1oz: 4/4mil｜3oz: 8/12mil (IPC-2152 current carrying capacity required)

Application of Copper PCB Plate

Automotive‌ – EV battery management, motor controllers, charging systems.
Telecom‌ – 5G/6G base stations, RF power amplifiers, antenna modules.
Industrial‌ – Welding machines, UPS, solar inverters, robotics.
Aerospace‌ – Satellite comms, avionics, radar systems.
Medical‌ – MRI equipment, surgical lasers, X-ray generators.
Consumer‌ – High-end smartphones, gaming consoles, AR/VR devices.

Copper PCB Plate Design Guidelines

1. Material Selection & Thickness

Use copper foil thickness based on current requirements: 1oz (35μm) for standard applications, 2oz (70μm) or thicker for high-current designs.
Inner layer copper thickness ≥0.5oz; outer layers add 0.5oz to base thickness.
Ensure dielectric layer thickness ≥0.1mm to prevent voltage breakdown.

2. Layout & Layer Stackup

Adopt symmetric design for dielectric layers, copper thickness, and trace distribution.
Separate high-speed/low-speed, digital/analog, and power/ground planes using spatial isolation or dedicated ground lines.
Place high-power components centrally for even heat distribution; avoid clustering.

3. Thermal Management

Increase copper area under high-power devices to act as a heat spreader.
Use thermal vias to connect top/bottom layers, transferring heat to a dedicated thermal pad.
For currents >10A, opt for ≥2oz copper and widen traces to reduce resistance.

4. Signal Integrity

Maintain 3W rule (trace spacing ≥3× trace width) to minimize crosstalk.
Route high-speed signals (e.g., clock lines) away from noisy power lines.
Ensure impedance control for differential pairs and critical nets.

5. Manufacturing Considerations

Follow IPC-2221 for trace width/spacing and IPC-6012 for quality classes (Class 3 for aerospace/medical).
Avoid sharp angles (>135°) to prevent EMI and manufacturing defects.
Use solid or hatched copper pours with clearances ≥0.2mm from pads/vias.

6. Power & Ground Design

Dedicate separate power/ground planes for analog/digital sections.
Widen power traces and use multiple vias for low-impedance paths.
Implement local decoupling capacitors near ICs (≤0.3mm from power pins).

7. Drilling & Plating Design

For thick copper (>4oz), optimize drill parameters to mitigate copper smearing and burrs.
Ensure hole wall plating thickness ≥25μm for Class 3 reliability.

8. Testing & Validation

Perform thermal imaging to validate heat dissipation in high-power zones.
Use impedance testing for high-speed signals and electrical continuity checks.
These guidelines balance performance, manufacturability, and reliability while adhering to industry standards.

Copper PCB Plate Thermal Solution in Electric Vehicles

Five Thermal Solutions for Copper PCB Plates in Electric Vehicles

1. High-Conductivity Substrates & Thick Copper Layers

Use metal-core PCBs (MCPCB) or ceramic substrates (Al₂O₃/AlN) with thermal conductivity >1.5 W/m·K for power modules.
Apply localized thick copper (≥2oz/70μm) on high-current traces to reduce Joule heating and enhance heat spreading.

2. Dense Thermal Via Arrays Under High-Power Components

Place thermal vias (diameter 0.3–0.5mm, pitch 1.0mm) directly beneath IGBTs, MOSFETs, or DC-link capacitors.
Fill vias with copper or conductive paste to eliminate air gaps and improve vertical heat transfer.

3. Zoning & Component Placement Optimization

Centralize heat-generating devices near liquid cooling channels or heat sinks.
Maintain ≥5mm spacing between high-voltage (>600V) and low-voltage circuits to prevent thermal crosstalk.

4. Hybrid Cooling Integration

Combine PCB thermal vias with active cooling (e.g., microchannel liquid cooling plates) for modules exceeding 200W.
Use phase change materials (PCMs) or graphite sheets between PCB and housing for passive thermal buffering.

5. Simulation-Driven Design & Automotive-Grade Validation

Perform CFD thermal modeling (e.g., ANSYS Icepak) to optimize via density and material selection.
Validate through power cycling tests (200A, 1000+ cycles) and thermal shock (-40°C to +150°C) per AEC-Q100 standards.

How Was Copper Base PCB Made?

Production Processes of Copper Base PCB:

1. Material Selection‌: Start with 99.9% pure copper plates (1-10mm thickness) and thermally conductive dielectric layers (typically aluminum nitride or ceramic-filled polymer).

2. Surface Treatment‌: Chemically clean copper surfaces to achieve <0.5μm roughness, then apply oxidation-resistant coating for better bonding.

3. Pattern Transfer‌: Laminate dry film photoresist onto copper, expose with UV light through designed artwork, then develop to create circuit patterns.

4. Precision Etching‌: Use ammoniacal etching solution maintained at 45±2°C to remove unwanted copper, achieving 50μm line width tolerance.

5. Dielectric Bonding‌: Sandwich thermally conductive dielectric between copper layers under 180°C and 15kg/cm² pressure for 90 minutes.

6. Drilling & Plating‌: Drill micro-vias with 0.1-0.3mm diameter using laser ablation, then electroless copper plate the hole walls.

7. Solder Mask Application‌: Screen-print high-temperature resistant ink (withstand 260°C for 60s), cure with infrared for enhanced thermal cycling performance.

8. Surface Finishing‌: Apply ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold) or silver plating for optimal solderability and heat dissipation.

9. Electrical Testing‌: Perform 100% continuity test with 500V DC and thermal impedance measurement using ASTM D5470 standard.

10. Final Inspection‌: Verify dimensional accuracy (±0.05mm) and thermal conductivity (300-500W/mK range) before vacuum packaging.

Reliability Compliance Testing for Copper Substrate PCB

1. Thermal Cycling Endurance Validation‌

Execute 1,000 rapid temperature cycles between -55°C and +150°C following IPC-9701. Confirm thermal conductivity maintains within ±5% deviation to ensure long-term stability in automotive applications.

2. Dielectric Withstand Voltage Test‌

Apply 3.5kV AC for 60 seconds between adjacent copper layers per UL 94V-0. Terminate testing if leakage current exceeds 10mA, guaranteeing insulation integrity in high-voltage designs.

3. Thermal Shock Resistance Assessment‌

Transition boards between -65°C and +175°C chambers within 10 seconds per JEDEC JESD22-A106B. Inspect for delamination after 300 cycles using scanning acoustic microscopy.

4. Solder Reflow Compatibility Check‌

Immerse test coupons in 288°C solder bath for 30 seconds (IPC-TM-650 2.6.8). Verify dimensional change <0.2% and solder mask adhesion strength >1.0kgf/cm² post-test.

5. Humidity Aging Evaluation‌

Condition samples at 85°C/85% RH for 168 hours (JESD22-A101). Measure insulation resistance >100MΩ after recovery to demonstrate reliability in tropical climates.

6. Mechanical Flexural Strength Test‌

Perform three-point bending at 150°C with 0.5% strain (IPC-6012). Validate zero microcracks via cross-section analysis to ensure structural robustness.

7. Interlayer Bond Strength Measurement‌

Conduct 90° peel tests before/after thermal aging (IPC-TM-650 2.4.8). Maintain >1.2kgf/cm adhesion strength for power module applications.

8. High Current Loading Verification‌

Subject boards to 100A DC load at 110°C ambient for 24 hours (IEC 60146). Monitor thermal rise <40°C above ambient with infrared thermography.

Reliability Compliance Testing for Copper Substrate PCB

Why Choose Best Technology as Copper PCB Plate Manufacturer?

Free DFM (Design for Manufacturability) Analysis: Optimizes PCB layouts to reduce material waste, lower production costs, and avoid late-stage design revisions.
Thermal Simulation & Optimization: Custom heat dissipation solutions proven to reduce hotspot temperatures by 25-40°C
24-Hour Rapid Prototyping Delivery: Accelerates product development cycles, enabling faster time-to-market and competitive edge in high-demand industries.
Stringent Quality Control with 100% Inspection: Eliminates hidden defects, reduces rework costs, and ensures reliability in high-current/thermal applications.
Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Fees: Predictable budgeting and cost savings through upfront pricing models tailored to thick copper PCB specifications.
Certified Compliance (ISO 9001, UL, RoHS): Mitigates regulatory risks and ensures products meet global standards for safety and environmental compliance.
One-Stop Solution from Design to Delivery: Streamlines project management by consolidating prototyping, fabrication, and assembly together.

Welcome to contact us if you have any inquiry for copper PCB board: sales@bestpcbs.com. Looking hearing from you soon!

Tags:copper base pcb, copper pcb plate
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Aluminum PCB Circuit Board Design & Manufacturer, Free DFM

Thursday, July 17th, 2025

Why choose aluminum PCB circuit board for your project? These high-performance boards combine superior thermal management with structural durability, making them ideal for LED, automotive, and power electronics. This guide covers their structure, benefits, design tips, and manufacturing process to help you make informed decisions.

Does heat dissipation design drag down product life?
Is it difficult to get professional support for small batches?
Does batch stability affect the pace of mass production?

Best Technology Can Provide:

Accurate heat dissipation solution: Patented aluminum substrate (5.2W/m·K) with thermal simulation optimization reduces temperature rise by 35%.
Flexible cooperation model: 10 pieces minimum order, providing full technical support from design to mass production.
Reliable Batch Quality Inspection: Provide material traceability report + reliability test data for each batch.

Welcome to contact Best Technology if you’re interested in aluminum PCB board: sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is An Aluminum PCB Circuit Board?

An aluminum PCB circuit board (printed circuit board) is a specialized circuit board type constructed using an aluminum alloy base material instead of conventional fiberglass substrates like FR-4. This metal-core foundation serves as a heat dissipation solution, redirecting warmth away from temperature-sensitive electronic components.

These boards are formally categorized as metal-core PCBs (MCPCBs), with aluminum being the most widely adopted base material. The essential purpose centers on thermal management, aluminum efficiently absorbs and spreads heat generated during circuit operation, preventing damage to parts like LED emitters, power transistors, or voltage regulators. This characteristic makes aluminum PCBs a practical choice in applications demanding real-world cooling performance beyond traditional boards’ capabilities.

What Is the Structure of Aluminum PCB Board?

Circuit Layer (Copper Foil): Composed of electrolytic copper foil, typically 1 oz to 3 oz thickness. Serves as the conductive pathway for electrical signals.

Dielectric Layer (Thermal Insulation): A thermally conductive but electrically insulating material (e.g., epoxy resin with ceramic fillers). Transfers heat from the circuit layer to the metal substrate while preventing electrical shorts.

Metal Substrate (Aluminum Base): A thick aluminum plate (usually 1mm to 3mm thickness). Provides mechanical rigidity, heat dissipation, and acts as a heat sink for high-power components.

Adhesive Layer (Bonding Film): A thin adhesive film between the dielectric layer and aluminum substrate. Ensures strong adhesion and thermal conductivity between layers.

Aluminum PCB Circuit Board Specification

Parameter	Specification Range
Base Material	5052/6061 Aluminum Alloy
Copper Thickness	1oz – 4oz (35μm – 140μm)
Dielectric Layer	50μm – 150μm
Max Operating Temp	130°C – 150°C
Thermal Resistance	0.5°C/W – 3.0°C/W
Breakdown Voltage	2kV – 5kV
Surface Finish	HASL, ENIG, OSP
Min Trace Width	0.1mm – 0.3mm
Min Hole Size	0.3mm – 0.5mm
Panel Size	500mm x 600mm (max)

What Are the Pros and Cons of Aluminum PCB Circuit Board?

Advantages of aluminum PCB circuit board:

Superior Thermal Management: Conducts heat 8-10x faster than standard FR4, preventing overheating in high-power LEDs, motor drives, and power converters.
Enhanced Durability: Resists vibration and mechanical stress better than fiberglass PCBs, ideal for automotive and aerospace applications.
Longer Component Lifespan: Stable thermal performance minimizes thermal expansion stress, reducing failure rates in power electronics.
Cost-Effective for High-Power Designs: Lower lifetime costs compared to FR4 + external cooling solutions in applications like LED lighting and industrial power supplies.
Eco-Friendly Material: 100% recyclable, aligning with green manufacturing and RoHS compliance.

Disadvantages of aluminum PCB circuit board:

Higher Upfront Cost: 20-30% more expensive than FR4 due to specialized dielectric layers and metal-core processing.
Limited Complexity: Mostly 1-2 layers; multilayer designs are rare and costly (e.g., hybrid constructions with FR4 sections).
Challenging Rework: Difficult to modify after production—drilling or cutting risks damaging the aluminum substrate.
Electrical Isolation Risks: Dielectric layer defects (e.g., voids) may cause shorts in high-voltage applications (>1kV).
Poor High-Frequency Performance: Higher parasitic capacitance distorts signals above 500MHz, making RF/microwave circuits impractical.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Aluminum PCB Circuit Board?

What Are Aluminum PCB Board Used for?

High-Power LED Lighting – Commercial lighting, automotive headlamps, backlight units.
Power Electronics – Switch-mode power supplies, motor controllers, solar inverters.
Automotive Systems – Electric vehicle battery modules, engine control units, LED taillights.
Audio Amplifiers – High-fidelity amplifiers, professional audio equipment, RF power modules.
Renewable Energy – Solar panel junction boxes, wind turbine converters, energy storage systems.
Medical Devices – Surgical lighting, diagnostic imaging equipment, laser therapy systems.
Industrial Controls – Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensor modules, robotics.

How to Design Aluminum LED PCB for Better Heat Dissipation?

Methods about how to design aluminum LED PCB for better heat dissipation:

Choose High-Thermal-Conductivity Dielectric Layers‌: Use ‌≥2.0 W/mK‌ dielectric materials (e.g., Bergquist HT-07000) to bridge heat from LEDs to the aluminum base.

Maximize Copper Thickness for Power Traces‌: Prioritize ‌2–4 oz copper‌ to reduce resistive heating and improve thermal spreading.

Implement Thermal Vias Under LED Pads‌: Place ‌arrays of vias (0.3–0.5mm diameter)‌ beneath LED footprints to direct heat to the aluminum core.

Avoid Thermal Islands in Layouts‌: Connect all high-power components to large copper pours, ensuring heat paths are ‌continuous and low-impedance‌.

Balance Copper Distribution‌: Symmetrical copper layers prevent warping and reduce ‌localized hotspots‌ during thermal cycling.

Optimize LED Spacing‌: Maintain ‌≥5mm spacing‌ between high-power LEDs to minimize cross-heating effects.

Use Thermal Simulation Early‌: Tools like ‌ANSYS Icepak‌ or ‌Mentor FloTHERM‌ can predict hotspots before prototyping.

How Are Aluminum PCBs Made?

Aluminum PCB Manufacturing Process:

1. Material Cutting: Cut aluminum alloy substrate (e.g., 1050, 6061) to specified dimensions.
2. Surface Cleaning: Clean aluminum and copper foil surfaces to remove oils, oxides, or contaminants.
3. Dielectric Layer Coating: Apply thermally conductive epoxy or prepreg to the aluminum substrate.
4. Copper Foil Lamination: Bond electrolytic copper foil (1–3 oz) to the dielectric layer under heat and pressure.
5. Circuit Etching: Print photoresist, expose to UV light, and etch excess copper with alkaline/acidic solutions.
6. Drilling: Machine-drill via holes using carbide bits, ensuring positional accuracy (±0.05mm).
7. Through-Hole Plating: Electroplate drilled holes to create conductive vias (copper thickness ≥1.5 mils).
8. Surface Finish Application: Apply HASL, ENIG, or OSP to protect copper and enhance solderability.
9. Thermal Stress Testing: Subject boards to thermal cycling (-40°C to +125°C) to validate durability.
10. Final Inspection & Packing: Conduct 100% visual and dimensional checks before packaging.

Why Choose Best Technology as Aluminum PCB Manufacturer?

Reasons why choose Best Technology as aluminum PCB manufacturer:

Certified Compliance (ISO 9001, UL, RoHS, ISO 9001, IATF 16949 ): Mitigates regulatory risks and ensures products meet global standards for safety and environmental compliance.
Free DFM (Design for Manufacturability) Analysis: Optimizes PCB layouts to reduce material waste, lower production costs, and avoid late-stage design revisions.
Turnkey Solutions – Full-service PCB manufacturing from design to delivery, accelerating your product’s time-to-market.
Fast Turnaround – 24-hour rapid prototyping and industry-leading production lead times.
Stable Supply Chain – Guaranteed material availability with minimal risk of delays.
Responsive Support – Dedicated customer service with a 2-hour response guarantee for urgent requests.
Competitive & Transparent Pricing – No hidden costs, offering the best value without compromising quality.
Stringent Quality Control with 100% Inspection: Eliminates hidden defects, reduces rework costs, and ensures reliability in high-current/thermal applications.

If you have any request for aluminum PCB, welcome to contact us: sales@bestpcbs.com.

Tags:aluminum pcb, aluminum PCB circuit board
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

1 oz Copper PCB Manufacturer, Turnkey Solutions

Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

What is 1 oz copper PCB? This guide covers specifications, manufacturing, and selection criteria for optimal circuit performance.

1 oz copper foil is too thin? Worried about insufficient current carrying capacity and burning the circuit?
Can the thickness tolerance of 1 oz copper PCB be stable during mass production?
The budget is limited, but the poor heat dissipation of ordinary PCB affects the lifespan?

Best Technology Can Provide:

Precise current carrying design: 1 oz copper foil + optimized line width, meeting 20A+ current (IPC-2152 standard verification).
±5μm thickness control: laser thickness gauge real-time calibration to ensure batch consistency.
Cost-effective heat dissipation solution: metal base/FR4 hybrid structure, thermal resistance reduced by 40%.

Welcome to contact us if you have any request for copper PCB board: sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is A 1 oz Copper PCB?

A 1 oz copper PCB utilizes a copper layer thickness defined by the historical unit “ounce per square foot” (oz/ft²), where 1 ounce of copper is uniformly spread over one square foot of surface area. This results in a physical thickness of approximately 35 micrometers (µm) or 0.0348 millimeters. This standardized measurement balances electrical conductivity, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness for a wide range of electronic applications.

It serves as the fundamental benchmark for conductivity and current-carrying capacity in most printed circuit boards across consumer electronics, industrial controls, and communication devices. Designers carefully correlate trace widths with this 35µm copper thickness to ensure adequate current flow without excessive voltage drop or overheating. While thicker copper layers exist for high-power applications demanding greater ampacity or thermal dissipation, the 1 ounce copper specification remains prevalent due to its optimal performance in standard circuits and efficient fabrication processes.

What Is the Thickness of 1 oz Copper PCB?

The thickness of a 1 oz copper PCB is defined by the industry-standard weight-to-area measurement. Specifically, 1 ounce (oz) of copper uniformly distributed over one square foot (ft²) area results in a physical thickness of approximately ‌35 micrometers (µm)‌ or ‌0.035 millimeters (mm)‌. This equivalently translates to about ‌1.4 mils‌ (thousandths of an inch) in imperial units.

What Is the Height of 1 oz Copper PCB?

The height (thickness) of 1 oz copper on a printed circuit board (PCB) measures 35 micrometers (µm), equivalently 0.035 millimeters (mm) or 1.4 mils (thousandths of an inch). This standard thickness results from the industry practice where one ounce of copper is uniformly distributed over one square foot of surface area. The calculation accounts for copper density at approximately 8.92 g/cm³ to achieve consistent thickness values that ensure manufacturing reliability and electrical performance.

What Is the Current Capacity of 1 oz PCB?

The current-carrying capacity of 1 oz copper PCB traces depends on width and temperature rise. A standard 10mm (0.4″) wide 1 oz (35µm) trace can safely carry about 5A with a 10°C temperature rise, or up to 8A with a 20°C rise. For precise calculations, use the IPC-2152 standard or online PCB trace width calculators that account for copper thickness, ambient temperature, and desired temperature rise.

Differences Between 1 oz vs 2 oz Copper PCB

Aspect	1 oz Copper PCB	2 oz Copper PCB
‌Thickness	35 micrometers (µm) or 1.4 mils	70 micrometers (µm) or 2.8 mils
‌Current Carrying Capacity	Lower; typically <5A for standard designs, e.g., ~4.6A at 1mm line width with 10°C temperature rise	Higher; ~40% increase vs. 1 oz, suitable for >5A currents, e.g., ~6.4A under same conditions
‌Typical Applications	Consumer electronics, low-power circuits, and cost-sensitive designs where moderate current suffices	High-power systems (e.g., power supplies, industrial equipment), high-frequency applications to reduce skin effect losses, and scenarios needing enhanced durability
‌Thermal Performance	Less effective for heat dissipation, potentially leading to higher local heating in high-current paths	Superior heat dissipation, minimizing hot spots and improving stability in thermally demanding environments
‌Signal Integrity	Adequate for general-frequency signals but may incur losses in high-frequency designs	Improved performance in high-frequency circuits due to reduced impedance and skin effect
‌Manufacturing Complexity	Simpler and lower-cost etching and processing due to thinner copper layers	More challenging; requires advanced techniques for drilling, plating, and etching, increasing production time and cost

What Is Manufacturing Process of 1 ounce Copper PCB?

Manufacturing Process of 1 ounce Copper PCB:

1. Substrate Preparation: Select copper clad laminate (CCL) with substrate material (e.g., FR4, CEM-1) and copper foil thickness of 1oz (35μm). Inspect surface quality (no oxidation, scratches).

2. Inner Layer Circuit Fabrication (Multilayer PCBs):
Clean copper foil → apply photosensitive dry film → expose to transfer circuit pattern → develop to remove unexposed dry film → etch to expose copper → strip dry film, obtaining inner layer circuits.

3. Lamination (Multilayer PCBs): Stack inner layer boards, prepreg (resin sheets), and outer layer copper foils. Press at high temperature and pressure to form a multilayer board.

4. Drilling: Use CNC drill to create through-holes (VIAs, component holes). Clean hole wall debris.

5. Hole Metallization: Chemical copper deposition (thin copper layer on hole walls) → electroplating to thicken copper (ensure hole wall conductivity).

6. Outer Layer Circuit Fabrication:

Clean outer copper foil → apply dry film → expose/develop to form circuit pattern → electroplating to thicken (optional) → etch to remove excess copper → strip dry film, obtaining outer layer circuits.

7. Solder Mask & Silkscreen: Apply solder mask (green oil) → expose/develop to expose pads → print component identifiers (silkscreen).

8. Surface Finish: Apply surface treatment to pads (e.g., HASL for tin spraying, OSP for organic coating, ENIG for nickel-gold plating) to prevent oxidation and improve solderability.

9. Profiling & Testing: Cut to specified size → electrical test (flying probe/ICT) to check circuit connectivity.

10. Packaging & Delivery: Clean PCB surface → vacuum pack → label specifications → ship.

What Is Manufacturing Process of 1 ounce Copper PCB?

Why Choose Best Technology as Copper PCB Manufacturer?

Reasons why choose us your copper PCB manufacturer:

Turnkey Solutions – Full-service PCB manufacturing from design to delivery, accelerating your product’s time-to-market.
Stable Electronics Supply Chain – Guaranteed material availability with minimal risk of delays.
Superior Quality – 100% inspection on bulk orders, ensuring reliability and consistency.
Fast Turnaround – 24-hour rapid prototyping and industry-leading production lead times.
Responsive Support – Dedicated customer service with a 2-hour response guarantee for urgent requests.
Competitive & Transparent Pricing – No hidden costs, offering the best value without compromising quality.
Certified Compliance – Fully certified (ISO, RoHS, UL) for global market acceptance.
24/7 Engineering Support – Expert thermal management and DFM guidance available anytime.
Advanced Manufacturing – High-precision etching for optimal 1 oz copper performance.
Scalable Production – Flexible capacity from prototypes to high-volume orders.

Why Choose Best Technology as Copper PCB Manufacturer?

Our Copper PCB Board Capabilities

Base material	Copper
Thermal Conductivity	0.8, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0 W/m.K
Board Thickness	0.5mm~3.0mm(0.02″~0.12″)
Copper thickness	0.5 OZ, 1.0 OZ, 2.0 OZ, 3.0 OZ, up to 10 OZ
Outline	Routing, punching, V-Cut
Soldermask	White/Black/Blue/Green/Red Oil
Legend/Silkscreen Color:	Black/White
Surface finishing	Immersion Gold, HASL, OSP
Max Panel size	600500mm(23.62″19.68″)
Packing	Vacuum/Plastic bag
Samples L/T	4~6 Days
MP L/T:	5~7 Days

Our Quality Inspection & Certification

Certified & Compliant Standards: ISO 9001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949, AS9100D Certified, and UL, REACH, RoHS Compliant
Aging Test (Environmental Stress Screening): Includes thermal cycling (-40℃~85℃) and humidity exposure to validate long-term reliability.
Dimensional Verification (CMM/Profilometer): Measures thickness (±0.1mm), flatness, and hole alignment accuracy.
Peel Strength Test (Adhesion Assessment): Quantifies copper-clad laminate bonding force (ASTM D903).
X-Ray Inspection (Internal Defect Screening): Checks solder joint voids, cracks, and BGA/QFN hidden defects.
AOI (Automated Optical Inspection): Detects surface defects like open/short circuits, missing components, and soldering issues.

Instant Quote

In summary, 1 oz copper PCBs (35μm thickness) deliver optimal balance between cost and performance for standard applications, with proven current capacity and manufacturing reliability. Best Technology stands out as your ideal partner by offering certified turnkey solutions (ISO/RoHS/UL), 24-hour rapid prototyping, 100% bulk inspection, and engineer-backed thermal management support. Our stable supply chain ensures 2-hour response time and on-time delivery, while transparent pricing eliminates hidden costs. For high-quality 1 oz copper PCBs that accelerate your product development cycle, contact Best Technology today for a competitive quote: sales@bestpcbs.com.

Tags:1 ounce Copper PCB, 1 oz copper PCB
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Decent Quality Aluminum Circuit Board for Prototype

Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

Aluminum circuit board is your first choice for prototypes needing efficient heat dissipation and mechanical strength. In today’s fast-moving electronic world, having a reliable board partner speeds up development and lowers risks. Let’s go through the types, benefits, manufacturing, and more—so you can make better decisions.

As a well-known aluminum circuit manufacturer, Best Technology supports decent quality aluminum circuit boards for prototypes. Our factory presents a wide variety of MCPCBs, like copper core PCB, single-layer MCPCB, COB MCPCB, double-sided MCPCB, multilayer MCPCB, and SinkPAD board. All our aluminum circuit goes through the most stringent electrical circuit test, AOI, and visual inspection. Our aluminum printed circuit boards are commonly used in aerospace, automotive, medical industries, LED lighting, and industrial equipment. It would be very nice of you to share the Gerber Files you have via email at mcsales@bestpcbs.com, then we will be glad to share the quote with you as quick as we can.

Decent Quality Aluminum Circuit Board for Prototype

What Is Aluminum Circuit Board?

An aluminum circuit board, also called metal core PCB or MCPCB, uses aluminum as its base instead of traditional FR4. It improves heat management and structural durability, which is vital for LED lighting and power devices. Unlike regular boards, these handle high temperatures without deforming. That’s why many engineers choose aluminum PCBs during prototyping.

What Is the Type of Aluminium PCB Board for LED?

For LED projects, the most common type is single-sided aluminum PCB. It’s compact and handles thermal loads well. But in high-power or RGB LED systems, double-sided or multilayer aluminum PCBs offer better performance. They reduce LED failure by improving heat flow. Best Technology supports custom layouts, even in tight spaces or dense LED arrangements.

Which Is Better: Aluminum PCB vs FR4?

Which is better: aluminum PCB vs FR4? Aluminum PCB beats FR4 in thermal performance. It draws heat away from sensitive parts, boosting LED lifespan and reducing risk. While FR4 costs less, it can’t manage heat well, especially in power circuits. In prototypes with high-current designs or compact layouts, aluminum wins. Plus, it supports better mechanical strength, cutting down failures during handling.

How Is the Aluminium PCB Manufacturing Process?

Making aluminum circuit boards involves steps like copper etching, dielectric lamination, and mechanical drilling. The copper layer must be etched with tight control. Some suppliers struggle here—especially above 3oz copper thickness. But Best Technology applies auto optical width checks and dynamic compensation algorithms. That keeps the line width deviation under ±0.02mm, even with 8oz copper. For heat bonding, vacuum lamination and real-time monitoring improve consistency, reducing delamination risks in LED arrays.

How Is the Aluminum Circuit Board Price?

Aluminum circuit board price varies with size, copper weight, layer count, and surface finish. Basic single-layer aluminum PCBs are cost-effective. But high-current designs with multiple layers cost more. Still, when you compare the longer LED lifespan, saved redesigns, and lower cooling costs, they provide better long-term value. Best Technology offers reasonable aluminum PCB prices, especially for small batches and prototypes.

What Are the Advantages of Aluminum Printed Circuit Boards?

They shine in thermal management. The metal core pulls heat away quickly, protecting components. They’re durable and resist cracking better than FR4. For LED lighting, aluminum PCBs keep junction temperatures in the safe zone. This extends light quality and life. They also reduce the need for heat sinks, cutting system cost and weight. Aluminum PCB boards are also RoHS compliant and recyclable, supporting green goals.

Why Choose Best Technology as One of Your Reliable Aluminum Circuit Board Manufacturers?

Best Technology handles the technical challenges of aluminum PCB prototyping with skill. Let’s explore how we solve key demands.

1. Reliable Thermal Bonding

In LED arrays, poor bonding causes delamination and shortens lifespan. We use vacuum lamination and thermal imaging to detect flaws early. Thermal conductivity adhesives ensure better heat paths, with interface resistance as low as 0.8 K/W.

2. Complex Layout Support

Some designs need tight layouts. We support 0.5oz – 10oz conductor thickness, 4/4mil line space, and 0.48mil PTH wall thickness for HDI. The max board dimension supports up to 610*1625mm, and the MCPCB layers support up to 10 layers. Our thermal mapping and 3D layout tools balance heat and layout density—great for power-dense applications.

3. Controlled Drilling & Milling

CNC defects slow down prototyping. With laser depth control and anti-vibration tools, we prevent burrs and hole deformation. That means more reliable testing and less rework.

4. Strict Quality Assurance

We follow ISO 9001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949, AS9100D, and IPC Class 3. All batches are traceable, RoHS-safe, and meet UL requirements. Heat cycle tests from -55°C to +150°C, AOI checks, and electrical tests ensure long-term reliability.

5. Turnkey EMS MCPCB Manufacturing Service

Best Technology provides turnkey service from material procurement, MCPCB design, DFM analysis, MCPCB prototype, mass production, MCPCB assembly.

6. A Variety of Different MCPCBs

There are different varieties of our MCPCB portfolio, such as aluminum core PCBs, copper core PCBs, and Insulated Metal Substrate (IMS) PCBs with thermal vias. All support different layers, and there is no MOQ requirement for all our product lines.

Why Choose Best Technology as One of Your Reliable Aluminum Circuit Board Manufacturers?

In a nutshell, choosing a decent quality aluminum circuit board for your prototype is about more than just materials. It’s about solving thermal, layout, and manufacturing issues from the start. At Best Technology, we combine tech with process precision to overcome copper etching limits, bonding risks, and dense design hurdles. With our smart systems and certified quality, we support fast and successful prototyping for LED, power, and compact electronics. Feel free to email us at sales@bestpcbs.com or call us at +86-755-2909-1601, if you have any questions or would like to get more information.

Tags:aluminum circuit board
Posted in mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

Aluminum PCB for Round High Bay LED Lights | Best Technology

Tuesday, July 15th, 2025

What Is a Round High Bay LED Light?

A round high bay LED light is a type of industrial lighting fixture used in buildings with high ceilings—usually more than 20 feet. These lights are designed in a circular or UFO-style shape to evenly distribute light over large areas. You’ll often find them in warehouses, gymnasiums, factories, airports, and retail stores. Compared to older metal halide or fluorescent systems, round high bay LED lights are more energy-efficient, last longer, and require less maintenance.

Each fixture typically contains multiple high-power LEDs mounted on a metal-core PCB, surrounded by a reflector and protected by a lens. These components are arranged to direct intense, bright light downward to cover a wide area. The circular layout is easy to install, especially for ceilings where centralized lighting is needed.

Aluminum PCB for Round High Bay LED Lights

Do High Bay LED Lights Get Hot?

Yes, high bay LED lights can get hot—especially after extended use. Although LEDs are more efficient than traditional lighting sources, they still generate heat during operation. The more powerful the light (for example, 100W, 150W, or 200W round high bay fixtures), the more heat it produces.

Unlike incandescent or halogen lights, LEDs don’t emit heat through infrared radiation. Instead, their heat builds up internally around the chip and must be conducted away through the PCB and heat sink. If the heat isn’t managed properly, it can reduce the light’s efficiency, shorten the LED’s lifespan, and even cause failure. That’s why thermal management is crucial for high bay LED lights—and why aluminum PCBs are widely used in their construction.

Why Use Aluminum PCB for High Bay LED Lights?

Aluminum PCBs are preferred in round high bay LED lights because they offer excellent thermal conductivity. In high bay environments, LED chips are packed closely together on a board, creating a concentrated source of heat. Aluminum PCBs help move this heat away from the chip quickly, reducing the risk of overheating.

Traditional fiberglass PCBs (like FR4) are not good at handling thermal loads. They trap heat near the components, which can lead to LED failure. In contrast, aluminum PCBs consist of a metal base layer, a dielectric insulation layer, and a copper circuit layer.

Using aluminum PCBs in high bay LED lights also helps to maintain consistent brightness, reduce light degradation over time, and support longer operating lifespans—often 50,000 hours or more.

Advantages of Using Aluminum PCB

1. Aluminum PCBs rapidly transfer heat away from LED chips, so that they can reduce the temperature at the LED junction and maintains stable light output over time.

2. High bay lights are often used in demanding environments like factories and warehouses. The base material of aluminum PCB is metal, so they can provide better structural stability and resistance to vibration and moisture.

3. When LEDs operate at lower temperatures, their lumen output remains consistent for years with minimal degradation.

4. Despite their strength, aluminum PCBs are relatively lightweight compared with copper core PCB. This can reduce the overall weight of the high bay fixture, make it easier to install and handle.

5. Though aluminum PCBs cost more than standard FR4 boards, their durability, reliability, and low maintenance result in long-term savings—especially in industrial settings where lighting failures can be costly.

1W vs 2W vs 3W Aluminum PCB: Which One Is Best?

In aluminum PCBs used for round high bay LED lights, the terms 1W, 2W, and 3W refer to the thermal conductivity of the dielectric layer between the copper circuit and the aluminum base, not the power of the LEDs themselves.

It’s measured in watts per meter-kelvin (W/m·K) and indicates how efficiently heat is transferred from the copper to the aluminum core. The main job of dielectric layer is to insulate electrically while conducting heat away from the LED components. Here’s how they compare:

1W Aluminum PCB

1W PCBs are used for low-power applications where heat is minimal. They’re suitable for small or decorative lights but not recommended for industrial high bay systems. The heat dissipation capacity is limited, and using them in high-power lights may cause overheating.

2W Aluminum PCB

2W PCBs offer better heat conductivity than 1W versions and are often used in mid-power LED lights, such as 50W to 100W systems. They provide a balance between performance and cost, and they work well in moderately demanding environments.

3W Aluminum PCB

3W PCBs are designed for high-performance LED lighting. They are ideal for 150W to 200W round high bay fixtures, where multiple high-output LEDs are densely packed. These boards handle more heat and offer higher durability under continuous operation.

So, which one is best? For round high bay LED lights used in industrial or commercial buildings, 3W aluminum PCBs are usually the best option. They support powerful LEDs, provide excellent thermal control, and reduce the risk of system failure.

Round High Bay LED Lights PCB Design Guide

Designing a printed circuit board (PCB) for round high bay LED lights requires special attention to thermal management, electrical performance, mechanical stability, and spatial efficiency. These lights operate in high-ceiling environments and typically involve high power, which means the PCB must handle significant heat while maintaining long-term reliability.

1. Shape and Form Factor

Since the fixture is round, the PCB is typically designed in a circular shape to match the housing and ensure symmetrical light distribution. This helps maintain uniform brightness across the target area and improves heat spreading across the surface.

To design the board:

Use radial symmetry when placing LED chips to maintain uniform light output.
Create concentric LED rings to balance thermal and optical performance.
Align mounting holes and cutouts with the housing’s mechanical features for secure fitting.

2. Material Selection: Aluminum Core

The aluminum substrate is the foundation of thermal performance. Choose high-quality aluminum cores with good thermal conductivity—typically in the range of 1.0 W/m·K to 3.0 W/m·K.

Common material stack-up:

Top layer: Copper circuit (usually 1oz or 2oz)
Middle layer: Dielectric insulating layer (optimized for thermal transfer, usually 75–150μm thick)
Bottom layer: Aluminum base (typically 1.0–1.6mm thick)

Noted: The thicker the base, the higher the dielectric layer value, the better the heat transfer, but also the heavier and costlier the board becomes.

3. Copper Thickness and Trace Width

For high-power LEDs, the copper thickness should be:

1oz (35μm) minimum for moderate power (≤100W)
2oz (70μm) or 3oz (105μm) for high-power designs (≥150W)

Use wide copper traces to reduce resistive losses and avoid overheating. Calculate trace width based on expected current using IPC-2221 standards.

4. Thermal Management Techniques

Heat dissipation is critical in high bay LED lights. Key design methods include:

Use direct thermal path: Use thermally conductive vias or metal-core structures to transfer heat from LEDs to the aluminum base.
Thermal vias: For multilayer aluminum PCBs (if needed), add thermal vias below heat-generating components to improve vertical heat flow.

5. LED and Component Placement

Carefully plan the placement of LEDs, drivers, resistors, and protection components:

LEDs: Distribute evenly in radial or concentric patterns to ensure uniform illumination.
Driver ICs and capacitors: Place these in cooler areas away from dense LED zones to reduce thermal interaction.
Thermistors or temperature sensors: Add for real-time temperature monitoring and safety.

Avoid placing heat-sensitive components directly beside high-heat sources.

6. Electrical Isolation and Safety

Since aluminum is conductive, electrical insulation is critical. The dielectric layer between the copper circuit and aluminum base must withstand at least 2–3kV isolation voltage. It is better to consult your PCB manufacturer to get a best solution.

Our Aluminum PCB Manufacturing Capability

Item	Capabilities
Layer Count	1 – 10 Layers
Max Board Dimension	24” × 64” (610mm × 1625mm)
Min Board Thickness	0.6mm
Max Board Thickness	4.0mm
Conductor Thickness	0.5oz – 10oz
Min Line Width/Line Space	4/4mil (0.10/0.10mm)
Min Hole Diameter	10mil (0.25mm)
Min Punch Hole Diameter	0.12” (3.0mm)
Min Hole Spacing	16mil (0.4mm)
Min PAD Ring (Single)	3mil (0.075mm)
PTH Wall Thickness	Normal: 0.59mil (15μm); HDI: 0.48mil (12μm)
Min Solder PAD Diameter	14mil (0.35mm)
Min Soldermask Bridge	8mil (0.20mm)
Min BAG PAD Margin	5mil (0.125mm)
PTH/NPTH Dia Tolerance	PTH: ±3mil (0.075mm); NPTH: ±2mil (0.05mm)

Where Can I Get an Aluminum PCB Quote?

If you’re sourcing aluminum PCBs for round high bay LED lights, it’s important to choose a supplier with experience in LED lighting applications. Getting the right material, thickness, and thermal configuration can make a big difference in your product’s performance.

Best Technology is a professional PCB manufacturer offering customized aluminum PCBs for LED lighting. We support a wide range of applications, from low-power LED modules to high-power round high bay LED lights. Our services include:

Custom shapes PCB designs, like round, rectangle, irregular…
Various materials available, aluminum, copper, FR4, ceramic and so on
3W aluminum PCB production
Fast prototyping and mass production
Strict quality control ISO quality control system
Competitive pricing and fast delivery
No MOQ & fully flexible
Turnkey services from PCB design, components sourcing to PCB assembly
SMT factory both in China & Vietnam

To get a free aluminum PCB quote, simply send us your design files or requirements. Our engineering team will review your project and offer the best solution based on your needs and budget.

If you’re ready to start a new LED lighting project or improve your current product line, partnering with Best Technology can help to save time, reduce costs, and deliver reliable lighting solutions to you.

FAQs

1. What material is used in aluminum PCBs for high bay lights?

Aluminum PCBs use a base of aluminum metal, a dielectric layer for insulation, and a copper layer for circuit routing. This stack helps transfer heat from the LEDs to the fixture housing efficiently.

2. Can I use FR4 PCB in round high bay LED lights?

FR4 can be used for very low-power LEDs, but it’s not suitable for high bay lights due to poor heat dissipation. Aluminum PCBs are much more reliable in these applications.

3. Can aluminum PCBs be multilayered?

Yes, but multilayer aluminum PCBs are complex and more expensive. Most LED lights use single or double-layer aluminum boards.

4. What’s the standard thickness for aluminum PCBs?

The base thickness usually ranges from 1.0mm to 1.6mm. Copper thickness varies from 1oz to 3oz, depending on current load requirements.

5. How can I get a quote for custom aluminum PCBs?

You can contact Best Technology with your design files or specifications. We offer fast quoting, engineering support, and manufacturing tailored to your LED lighting project.

Tags:round high bay led lights
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Design Guide, FAQ, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »