ASTM D1867 defines the standard specification for copper clad laminates that manufacturers use for making printed circuit boards. Covering twelve grades of copper clad laminates, ASTM D1867 requires the laminates to meet peel strength at elevated temperatures, crosswise and lengthwise flexural strength, flammability ratings, volume resistivity, water absorption, dielectric breakdown, dissipation factor, and permittivity. The laminates must further conform to tests for blistering, warp, and twist.
Manufacturers of copper clad laminates follow the IPC-4101C as their manufacturing standard, and the IPC-IM 650 for testing the copper clad laminates they fabricate.
What are the materials of copper clad laminate?
Copper Foil
Copper foil is a cathodic electrolytic material deposited on a thin, continuous layer of metal foil on the base of the circuit board. It is easily bonded to an insulating layer, accepting a printed protective layer, and corroded to form a circuit pattern.
Prepreg:
A prepreg (from pre-impregnated) is fiberglass impregnated with resin. The resin is pre-dried, but not hardened, so that when it is heated, it flows, sticks, and is completely immersed. Prepreg are thus fiberglass strengthened by an adhesive layer (similar to FR4 material). The name of each prepreg derives from the type of fiberglass used.
The prepreg types of different suppliers vary in thickness; in addition there are the versions “SR” Standard Resin, “MR” Medium Resin “and” HR “High Resin, depending on the resin content. The best possible material is used depending on the desired final thickness, layer structure or impedance. The mentioned thicknesses are thus to be considered only as examples.
What are the applications of copper clad PCB?
- General electronic circuit board applications
- High-speed communication applications (4G-LTE, 5G base stations / Radar applications)
- Automotive-ADAS_Radar uses
- Avionic-Radar uses
Applications range from communications, automobiles, aerospace, and more. 5G is an abbreviation for “5th Generation” and means “5th Generation Mobile Communication System.”
This is the next generation of 4G (LTE-Advanced), and is fast enough to download a 2 hour movie in seconds.
With the widespread use of 5G, it may be possible not only to improve the communication speed and reduce delays, but also to realize things that were not possible with conventional communication speeds.
If you are going to learn more PCB professional knowledge or want to order PCB products, please click our homepage or instant quote to custom our products.