PCB Blog - What is copper clad laminate used for?

Copper-clad laminate is an important substrate material in PCB manufacturing and is the upstream core material of PCB manufacturing. It has a strong interdependence with PCBs. The main material of a circuit board is a copper clad plate, which is composed of a substrate, copper foil, and adhesive.

It is a material made by soaking electronic glass fibers or other reinforcing materials in resin and laminating copper on one or both sides. More importantly, it is widely used in TVs, radios, computers, mobile communications and other electronic products.

Usage

1.Electronic communication field

Copper-clad laminates are widely used in electronic products such as cell phones, computers, communication equipment and network equipment. Among them, cell phone is one of its most important application areas, and the quality of this material used in cell phones has an important impact on the performance and quality of cell phones.

2. Computer field

With the development of computers, the application of copper-clad laminates has gradually expanded and become an integral part of computer hardware. For example, it is widely used in hardware such as power supply boards, motherboards, expansion cards and memory modules.

3. Consumer Electronics

With the increasing popularity of consumer electronics, the application of copper-clad laminates in this field is gradually increasing. For example, it is used in products such as smart watches and smart homes.

4. Automotive Electronics

Automotive electronics is one of the future directions, and it is also widely used in automotive electronics such as in-vehicle entertainment systems, in-vehicle navigation systems and body control systems.

The role of PCB copper coating

1. Improve the conductivity of the circuit board

PCB copper coating can improve the conductivity of the circuit board to ensure the electrical connection between various components on the circuit board. The high conductivity of copper foil can reduce signal loss and resistance on circuit boards. In addition, the copper coating can also be used to form a large area of grounding or power layer to reduce electromagnetic interference and circuit noise.

2. Enhance the mechanical strength and corrosion resistance of circuit boards

PCB copper coating can enhance the mechanical strength and corrosion resistance of circuit boards. The copper foil has high strength and hardness, which can protect circuit boards from external pressure and wear. In addition, the copper coating can also prevent the circuit board from being affected by oxidation and corrosion, thereby extending the service life of the circuit board.

3. Reduce electromagnetic interference on the circuit board

PCB copper coating can reduce electromagnetic interference on circuit boards. Due to the high conductivity and low resistance of copper foil, it can form a complete grounding or power layer, effectively shielding the electromagnetic interference on the circuit board. This is very important for the normal operation of some high-frequency circuits.

Copper-clad laminate, as an important basic material for circuit boards, undertakes the four major functions of PCB conductivity, insulation, support, and signal transmission.