If you are in the market for printed circuit boards, you may have heard the term ‘FR4 PCB board’. FR4 stands for Fire Resistant 4, which is a grade used for circuit boards made of fiberglass epoxy resin. FR4 PCB boards are the most commonly used PCBs in electronics manufacturing, offering excellent thermal, mechanical and electrical properties. In this blog post, we’re going to explore why FR4 PCB boards are the backbone of your electronic devices.
What is an FR4 PCB board?
An FR4 PCB board is made of fiberglass cloth and epoxy resin. The resin is heated and cured to create a rigid, durable material that is suitable for use in printed circuit boards. The fiberglass/epoxy combination gives the PCB its distinctive green color.
Why Choose an FR4 PCB Board?
There are several factors that make FR4 PCB boards the top choice for electronic manufacturers. Here are the top 3 reasons why you should choose an FR4 PCB board:
1. High Durability
FR4 PCB boards are incredibly durable, withstanding harsh environments, including high temperatures, moisture, and chemicals. These boards can endure years of use without the fear of degrading or breaking down.
2. High-Temperature Resistance
FR4 PCB boards have excellent thermal properties, which make them ideal for use in high-temperature applications. They can withstand temperatures of up to 130 degrees Celsius, making them suitable for use in electronic devices that generate a lot of heat.
3. High Mechanical Strength
FR4 PCB boards have high mechanical strength, making them ideal for use in applications where the boards will be subjected to a lot of stress or vibration. They are widely used in industrial applications, aerospace and defense industries, and medical equipment.
Advantages of FR4 PCB Board
Here are some of the main advantages of using an FR4 PCB board:
1. High Voltage Resistance
FR4 PCB boards have excellent electrical insulation properties, which make them ideal for use in high voltage applications. They have a breakdown voltage of 40kV/mm, making them an excellent choice for electronic devices that require high voltage input.
2. Low Dielectric Constant
FR4 PCB boards have a low dielectric constant, which means they can support high-speed signals without significant loss of signal quality. This makes them ideal for use in high-frequency electronic devices.
3. Easy to Fabricate
FR4 PCB boards are easy to fabricate, making them ideal for the mass production of electronic devices. They can be fabricated using a variety of techniques, including etching, milling, and drilling.
Conclusion
FR4 PCB boards are the backbone of electronic devices, providing the necessary connectivity, support, and insulation that electronic devices require. These boards are affordable, easy to fabricate, and incredibly durable. If you’re looking for a high-quality PCB board that will stand the test of time, an FR4 PCB board is the best choice.