METAL BASED PRINTED WIRING BOARD

A metal-based printed wiring board, also known as a metal core PCB (MCPCB), thermal PCB, or insulated metal substrate (IMS) PCB, is a type of printed circuit board that uses a metal base instead of the standard FR4 or FR-4 epoxy resin laminate.

The metal base material is typically aluminum, copper, or a steel alloy, chosen for its superior thermal conductivity. This allows the MCPCB to efficiently dissipate heat away from electronic components, which is crucial for high-power applications.

Here are some of the benefits of using metal-based printed wiring boards:

  • Improved thermal performance: The metal core allows for more efficient heat dissipation, which can help to prevent overheating and extend the lifespan of electronic components.
  • Higher power density: MCPCBs can handle higher power levels than standard FR4 PCBs, making them ideal for applications such as power electronics and LED lighting.
  • Reduced size and weight: Because MCPCBs can dissipate heat more efficiently, they can be smaller and lighter than FR4 PCBs with the same functionality.
  • Increased mechanical strength: The metal core provides additional mechanical strength, which can be important for applications where the PCB will be subjected to stress.