The Metal Core PCB (MCPCB) is a type of surface-mounting package used in the electronics industry. MCPCB has no lead, has less weight and occupies less space than conventional PCBs. In addition, MCPCBs have better mechanical properties and circuit performance than conventional PCBs.

A Metal Core PCB is a PCB that has a metal core and is applicable for heating, cooling, and other applications. This type of PCB requires an entire documentation package and special tools for design. Choosing the right tools for metal core PCB layout design is essential to ensure a successful product. Layout tools help place components, define vias, and route traces. They also let you crosscheck electrical and thermal loads.

The purpose of the Metal Core PCB is to reduce the total amount of conductive material in contact with the component. You can accomplish this by ensuring that the MCPCB contains a metal core 40 mils to 50 mils larger than the plated through-hole component. In addition, this metal core contains non-conductive epoxy filler.

Metal Core PCBs

Metal Core PCBs are printed circuit boards that use copper or aluminum as a core material. The design process for a metal core PCB is the same as that for other printed circuit boards, except the substrate material is metal. However, the material used for the core is different and requires special considerations for the manufacturing process. This includes the use of thermal insulating layers and metal plates.

You must consider several factors during the design process, including solder mask, metal fabrication, and mechanical operations. These factors will affect the final product.

The advantages of using this type of PCB are numerous.

It saves space on the board, since it replaces heat sinks.

The metal substrate allows mounting power transistors directly on it.

Metal core PCBs reduce the number of interconnects, which improves heat transfer.

Additionally, metal core PCBs allow designers to eliminate entire sections of printed wiring boards and interconnects. This also allows designers to use surface mount devices instead of discrete ones, reducing space on the board.

Metal Core PCBs also have the advantage of being more durable than traditional FR-4 PCBs. The special substrate material is designed to withstand high temperatures and dissipate surplus heat from devices. The resulting thermal dissipation is nine times faster than regular FR-4 PCBs. Furthermore, the material is mechanically solid. Metal Core PCBs are available in different configurations.