Heat dissipation in 12 layer rigid-flex PCB via heat sink

Heat dissipation in 12 layer rigid-flex PCB via heat sink

The continued design and manufacture of complex, solution-driven devices has increased the importance of rigid-flex printed circuit boards (PCBs) for many industrial applications. As the need for improved electronics has increased, so has the need for improved PCB performance. They need to be designed to be multi-layered for use with complex electronics, compact and lightweight, and resistant to environmental contaminants.

Overheating is a problem even with today's PCBs, as too much heat can cause traces, chips, connectors or solder joints to not work properly. In this case, PCB manufacturers add heat sinks to the PCB design. How does adding this equipment help the PCB function properly? What are the benefits of a radiator? Let's find out.

What are heatsinks and how do they support a PCB?

A radiator is a type of heat exchanger. They are designed to transfer the heat radiated from the device to the fluid medium. Typically, the medium is air, however, oil, coolant, or even water can be used as the fluid medium. The use of a liquid medium allows heat to be dissipated from the device. In PCBs, heat sinks are used because the device itself does not have enough power to ensure heat dissipation and temperature regulation. It also ensures even heat distribution.

The benefits of radiators include:

l Excellent thermal conductivity

l Larger surface area connected to the fluid medium

l Support continuous PCB performance

How radiators work

Rigid-flex PCBs contain a combination of rigid copper and flex layers. Use heavy copper to increase the current carrying capacity of the PCB. However, using large ounces of copper can lead to excessive heat. This is where the radiator will be inserted. The heat sink is installed in a thermally conductive but electrically insulating mounting area. When a 12-layer rigid-flex PCB with a heat sink is installed and used, the heat generated will be transferred to the heat sink through heavy copper plated vias. The heat sink transfers heat to the fluid medium, which helps to dissipate the heat away from the PCB.

Most rigid-flex PCBs are manufactured using flame retardants and polymer materials for strength and flexibility. The combination of these materials allows a 12 layer rigid-flex PCB with heat sink to maintain thermal stability, electrical insulation and uniform power distribution.