Many chemicals found in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries can consign electronic components to a short life, creating high failure rates and low reliability. Corrosive agents such as H2S gas, hydrocarbons, chlorobenzene, and chemical by-products play havoc with components that control and manage processes or transport vital data between control centers and remote sites. What is required is a protective coating that can isolate the components from the harsh reality of industrial settings.
What are Conformal Coatings?
Conformal coatings, as the name suggests, conform to the contours of elements that populate printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other components present in electronic assemblies and systems. Conformal coatings are thin layers of synthetic resins or organic polymers applied to PCBs and electronic components to protect against environmental, mechanical, electrical, and chemical problems, including contaminants such as dust, dirt, fungus, moisture, chemicals, thermomechanical stress, mechanical shock, and vibration. Conformal coating types include urethane, silicone, acrylics, epoxies, and perylene.
A conformal coating service from AbraxSys is offered to protect all internal PCBs and components from dust, moisture, fungus, corrosion, and vibration. The coating can be brushed or sprayed onto the PCB, depending on application needs. A conformal coating can help minimize electromigration between metal conductors. In addition, the use of a conformal coating can protect circuits and components from direct contact that can lead to abrasions or electrical short circuits.
The Benefits of Conformal Coating Electronics
Conformal coating provides numerous benefits, particularly in preventing corrosion and moisture-related damage. It offers robust protection for circuitry from harsh environmental factors such as moisture, fungus, dust, and corrosion, ensuring longevity and reliability. Additionally, the coating safeguards components during construction, installation, and everyday use by reducing mechanical stress and protecting against thermal shock. Its resistance to abrasion during service further enhances durability. The application of conformal coating also improves performance, allowing for greater component density due to increased dielectric strength between conductors.
For more information on how AbraxSys uses conformal coating to safeguard our products, please Contact Us.