How to Choose PCB Conformal Coatings? Comparison of 6 ELAPLUS PCB Conformal Coating Models & Applications
PCB conformal coatings shall be selected based on service environment, curing speed, PCB structure, film flexibility and rework requirements. For general industrial control boards, ELAPLUS SIPC 2121, SICOAT 9061 or SICOAT 9007 are available for evaluation. For PCBAs requiring fast UV curing plus secondary curing in shadow areas, UV Coating 9060-M is recommended. For automotive electronics and wide-temperature-range applications, UV SIPC 3301 is a key option to assess. ELAPLUS supplies silicone, UV curable and UV-moisture dual-cure PCB conformal coatings, compatible with spraying, brushing, selective coating and automatic inline curing processes. What Are the Functions of PCB Conformal Coatings? Also known as PCB protective lacquer, PCBA coating or Conformal Coating, PCB conformal coatings form a continuous protective film on PCB surfaces to mitigate damages to electronic circuits caused by: ■ Moisture and condensation ■ Salt spray and corrosive gases ■ Dust and ionic contaminants ■ Grease and certain chemical media ■ Thermal cycling between high and low temperatures ■ Circuit and solder joint damage induced by vibration Conformal coatings do not fully encapsulate the entire PCB; they only form a thin protective layer over circuit boards, solder joints and components. For electronic modules requiring full waterproofing, structural fixation or deep insulation, potting compounds are generally used together. Main Types of PCB Conformal Coatings Common PCB conformal coatings fall into four categories: silicone conformal coatings, acrylic conformal coatings, polyurethane conformal coatings and UV curable conformal coatings. Silicone Conformal Coatings Silicone coatings feature excellent high-low temperature resistance and retain good flexibility after curing. They are ideal for automotive electronics, industrial controllers, PV & energy storage boards and circuits subject to frequent thermal cycling. Recommended models: ■ SIPC 2121 ■ UV SIPC 3301 Low-Viscosity PCB Conformal Coatings Low-viscosity products spray easily and spread uniformly to form even thin films. Care must be taken to…
