What are Metal Core PCBs?

Printed Circuit Boards are the primary components of an electronic device. Depending on the application of that particular electronic device, the requirements and specifications of the PCB carrying their electric circuit change as well. For example, when space and accessibility of a device is the prime consideration Flexible PCBs are preferred. For an operation that requires flexibility as well as strong mechanical endurance, we usually use Rigid-Flex PCBs.

Similarly, in some cases, electronic devices have to go through tenuous processes, they have to be redundant to high temperatures as well as very conductive so that heat dissipation is fact and does not affect the electronic circuit. In these cases, a Metal Core Printed Circuit Board is the preferred choice.

This article explores everything from what are MCPCBs, to their usage, properties, and, how we can manufacture them. Follow this comprehensive guide, to make a decision if a Metal Core PCB is something that you need as a manufacturer.

A metal core printed circuit board (PCB)

What is a Metal Core Printed Circuit Board?

A Metal Core PCB, also known as MCPCB, is a type of printed circuit board that uses a metal core, usually made of aluminum, as its base material instead of the traditional non-conductive substrate. The metal core provides superior thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient dissipation of heat generated by the electronic components mounted on the PCB. This makes MCPCBs ideal for applications that require high power and high operating temperatures, such as LED lighting, power supplies, and motor control.

In a metal core PCB, the metal core is laminated to a layer of dielectric material and a layer of copper, forming a three-layered board. The dielectric material is used to insulate the copper layer from the metal core, while the copper layer is used for routing and connecting the electronic components. The metal core also acts as a structural support for the PCB, making it more robust and resistant to mechanical stresses and vibrations. Overall, MCPCBs are a specialized type of PCB that offer superior thermal management, high power handling capabilities, and improved durability compared to traditional PCBs.

Types of Metal Cores

Following is some additional information on the different types of metal cores commonly used in MCPCBs:

Aluminum Core

MCPCBs with an aluminum core are the most commonly used type. Aluminum is a lightweight and cost-effective material that offers good thermal conductivity, making it ideal for applications such as LED lighting, power supplies, and motor control. Aluminum is also easy to fabricate and offers good mechanical strength and stability.

An Aluminum Metal Core PCB

Copper Core

MCPCBs with a copper core offer higher thermal conductivity compared to aluminum, making them ideal for high-power applications. Copper is also a more stable material compared to aluminum, making it suitable for applications that require higher mechanical strength and durability.

Combination Core

Some MCPCBs use a combination of aluminum and copper in their metal core, offering a balance between thermal conductivity and mechanical strength. These are typically used in applications that require both high-power handling capabilities and durability.

What are the properties that distinguish MCPCBs?

Metal Core PCBs (MCPCBs) are specialized printed circuit boards designed to provide superior thermal management capabilities. They are also known as Insulated Metal Substrates (IMS), or Metal Clad PCBs. Here are some of the properties of MCPCBs:

Heat dissipation in an Aluminium MCPCB

1. Thermal Conductivity: One of the primary features of MCPCBs is their high thermal conductivity. The metal core in the PCB helps to distribute heat away from sensitive components, ensuring their longevity and reliability. MCPCBs are commonly made of aluminum, copper, or a combination of both, depending on the specific thermal management needs.
2. Heat Dissipation: MCPCBs have excellent heat dissipation properties due to their metal core. This enables them to withstand high levels of heat generated by high-powered LED lights, power electronics, and other components. The metal core also provides a path for heat to escape, reducing the risk of thermal runaway.
3. Durability: MCPCBs are known for their durability and high strength. They can withstand the rigors of harsh environments and resist damage from vibration, shock, and moisture. This makes them suitable for use in a wide range of applications, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial electronics.
4. Electrical Insulation: The metal core in MCPCBs is typically coated with a layer of insulating material, such as fiberglass or ceramic. This provides electrical insulation between the metal core and the conductive traces on the surface of the PCB.
5. High-Power Capabilities: MCPCBs are capable of handling high-power applications due to their excellent thermal management and heat dissipation properties. They are commonly used in applications such as power supplies, motor controllers, and high-intensity LED lighting.
6. Cost-Effective: Although MCPCBs may cost more than traditional PCBs, they are more cost-effective in the long run due to their superior thermal management capabilities. They can extend the lifespan of electronic components, reduce maintenance costs, and improve overall system reliability.

Applications of Metal Core PCBs

MCPCBs (Metal Core Printed Circuit Boards) are used in various applications where high power and efficient heat dissipation are required. Here are some common applications of MCPCBs:

MCPCBs used in LED Lighting

1. LED Lighting: High-powered LED lights generate a lot of heat, and MCPCBs are ideal for dissipating that heat. MCPCBs can be used in LED light fixtures for applications such as street lighting, automotive lighting, and grow lights.
2. Power Electronics: MCPCBs are commonly used in power electronics such as power supplies, motor controllers, and inverters. These applications generate a lot of heat, and MCPCBs can help to dissipate that heat, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the components.
3. Automotive Industry: MCPCBs are used in various automotive applications such as headlights, taillights, and powertrain control modules. The high thermal conductivity and durability of MCPCBs make them ideal for use in harsh environments.
4. Aerospace Industry: The aerospace industry uses MCPCBs in various applications, including avionics, lighting systems, and power management systems. The high thermal conductivity and durability of MCPCBs make them suitable for use in extreme temperature environments.
5. Medical Equipment: MCPCBs are used in medical equipment such as ultrasound machines, MRI scanners, and X-ray machines. The high thermal conductivity and durability of MCPCBs make them ideal for use in medical equipment that generates a lot of heat.
6. Industrial Electronics: MCPCBs are used in various industrial electronics applications such as power supplies, motor controllers, and LED lighting. The high thermal conductivity and durability of MCPCBs make them ideal for use in harsh industrial environments.

Overall, MCPCBs are ideal for applications that require high power and efficient heat dissipation.

Conclusion

Metal Core PCBs, or MCPCBs, are a type of printed circuit board that uses a metal core, usually made of aluminum, as their base material instead of the traditional non-conductive substrate. The metal core provides superior thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient dissipation of heat generated by the electronic components mounted on the PCB. This makes MCPCBs ideal for applications that require high power and high operating temperatures, such as LED lighting, power supplies, and motor control.

MCPCBs have excellent heat dissipation properties, durability, electrical insulation, and high-power capabilities, and are cost-effective in the long run. They can be made with different metal cores, such as aluminum, copper, or a combination of both, depending on the specific thermal management needs. MCPCBs are commonly used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial electronics, among other applications.