Conformal Coatings

A conformal coating is a thin, protective coating for PCBs and other electronic components from environments that contain moisture and/or chemical contaminants.

The coating can be removed easily with most common solvents.

Why use a Conformal Coating?

A conformal coating conforms to the shape of the board and its components.
•Performance of PCBs can deteriorate because of moisture, sea salt, chemicals and temperature extremes using a conformal coating helps extend their working life.


•Use the coating to protect PCBs to allow for higher voltage gradients and closer track spacing.



How to use Conformal Coatings
•Brushing the components with the coating is suitable for low volume applications and for finishing and repair.


•Spraying on the coating can be done by using an aerosol or dedicated spray booth. These methods are suitable for low and medium volume processing. They are more cost effective, and gives excellent tip coverage to the components.


•Dipping the components into the coating is done for high volume applications but gets everywhere. Masking must be perfect to protect the board and prevent leakage when using this method.



Types of Conformal Coatings
•Silicone coatings give great protection in a wide range of temperatures, have good chemical resistance, flexibility and are resistant to sea salt.


•Acrylic coatings are easy to use and remove, provide fair elasticity, are abrasion resistant and have a high dielectric strength.


•Polyurethane coatings have excellent moisture and chemical resistance properties and are abrasion resistant.


•Epoxy coatings give good humidity resistance, high abrasion and chemical resistance



Where to use Conformal Coatings

Conformal Coatings are used in many different types of applications where high performance and reliability are needed.

These include military, car, marine and green energy to domestic and mobile electronic industries.

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