The demand for thick copper PCBs is increasing due to the complexity of electronic devices. These boards are widely used in power supply systems and power electronic devices. The thicker the copper in a circuit board, the more it conducts a higher current. There are several types of thick copper boards.
14 Oz Thick Copper PCB – What is it?
14 Oz thick copper PCB features 19.18 mils of copper. It is a board that comprises 14 ounces of copper. The thickness of copper is usually measured in ounces (Oz). 14 Oz thick copper PCB comes with a finished copper weight of 14 Oz (490μm).
The extra copper in the board enables it to conduct a higher current. Therefore, there is good thermal distribution on the board. Also, this board makes it easy to implement complex switches in a space. Generally, when a board features more than 2 Oz copper thickness, it is a thick copper PCB. 14 Oz thick copper PCB can be classified as an extremely thick board.
A board’s copper thickness indicates the finished copper weight. PCB thickness means the thickness of a board after it is completed. The copper thickness also indicates the thickness of the pads and tracks in a PCB. 1 oz copper PCB is 35μm. Therefore, 14 Oz copper PCB is 490μm. However, the copper thickness of a PCB depends on the requirements of the application.
14 oz thick copper PCB is ideal for some applications that require excessive current. Manufacturers use heavy copper foil on PCBs carrying large currents.
Why is PCB Copper Thickness Measured in Ounces?
Most people wonder why copper thickness is usually measured in Ounces (Oz). The weight of the unit determines the thickness of copper on a PCB. So, why is it like that?
In 1 Oz copper PCB, 1 Oz copper thickness uniformly covers an area of 1 sq. f. 1 ounce is 1.37 mils. In grams, 1 ounce is 28.3495. Therefore, 14 Oz is 1.37 mils x 14. This is equal to 19.18mils.
The more the copper weight of a board, the better it performs. Extremely thick copper PCBs feature better electrical properties. However, for such boards, etching can be very difficult. It is easier to etch thin boards than thick boards.
Manufacturers should ensure the minimum pattern width or spacing meets certain requirements. Thick copper PCBs are more complex to manufacture. They take more time and effort; hence, they are more expensive.
Factors that Affect PCB Thickness
The thickness of a circuit board doesn’t only depend on the copper thickness. There are other factors that determine the thickness of a PCB. These factors include:
Prepreg thickness
A PCB often features 2 to 3 prepregs in the layer structure. There is a glass fiber reinforced with resin between 2 cores. The prepreg changes the board’s thickness during pressing. Therefore, the thickness depends on the PCB manufacturer. Also, the ratio of open spaces and areas concealed with copper will also play a role.
Core thickness
The core is the insulating material separating two conductor layers. This copper-clad material maintains its thickness during the PCB manufacturing process. Also, the number of layers in a circuit board will affect its thickness.
Internal layers thickness
The thicknesses of the internal layers of the PCB matter. These thicknesses result from the construction sequence of the PCB. Therefore, to achieve a particular thickness, you must build the PCB with a certain structure.
Advantages of 14 Oz Thick Copper PCB
Some applications incorporate this board because of its advantages. Generally, thicker boards offer better electrical and mechanical characteristics. Due to this, it is a core component of high-end electronic equipment.
- This thick copper PCB minimizes circuit failure in devices. Therefore, devices can function t their full potential even in high temperatures.
- 14 Oz thick copper PCB helps in manufacturing compact and complex devices.
- This board helps to dissipate heat throughout the layer. It transfers heat to an external source.
- The structure of this board is strong. This makes it durable.
- It carries high currents without any complications.
- It supports exotic materials.
- 14 oz copper PCB provides higher heat conductivity. This helps to prevent sensitive parts from overheating.
- This PCB features enhanced thermal resistance and endurance.
Difference Between 14 Oz Thick Copper PCB and 12 Oz PCB
Thick copper PCBs feature different copper thicknesses. There are 10 Oz PCB, 12 Oz PCB, and more. The application requirements will determine the ounces of copper thickness in the board. Here, we will be comparing the difference between 14 Oz thick copper PCB and 12 Oz PCB.
Copper thickness
14 oz copper PCB features 19.18 mils copper thickness. 12 Oz copper PCB features 16.44 mils copper thickness. This means that 14 oz PCB features more copper thickness than 12 oz PCB.
Cost of manufacturing
The manufacturing cost of 14 oz PCB is more than that of 12 oz PCB. Due to the inclusion of more copper in 14 oz board, the manufacturing cost will increase. In terms of materials and labor costs, 14 oz PCB will require more time and cost to manufacture.
Current carrying capacity
The thicker the copper, the higher the current-carrying capacity. This capacity determines the electricity transmission of a circuit board. 14 oz PCB features a higher current carrying capacity than 12 Oz PCBs.
Quality Control in 14 Oz PCB
It is important to ensure quality control in14 Oz PCB fabrication. However, PCBs need to undergo some processes to ensure quality control. There are two effective test methods for 14 oz thick copper PCB.
This refers to automated optical testing. Here, a machine featuring image capturing tools inspects the PCB. It captures 3D and 2D images of 14 Oz PCB. The AOI test detects any defects in the circuit by matching it with a functional design. It is an effective and reliable test method.
Flying probe test
This probes the PCB surface from various angles. When you establish a connection, you will receive a signal. This displays the performance of the 14 Oz PCB. It checks for solder connections, current rating, and impedance control.
Conclusion
14 OZ thick copper PCB provides electric circuit solution in devices. This PCB features copper that weighs 14 ounces. Thermal management is very important in electronic devices. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for thick copper PCBs.
