High-Quality Metal Core PCBs at Competitive Prices
- Aluminum Substrate, Copper Substrate & Iron Substrate
- Single-layer, Double-layer & Multilayer Options
- High Thermal Conductivity Material
- Standard Stack-up & Thermoelectric Separation
- ISO9001:2015 Certified & UL Listed
- 100% E-testing, AOI Inspection & Visual Inspection
PCB requirements come in various forms, such as superior thermal management and mechanical strength, while remaining lightweight. Metal Core PCBs (also known as thermal PCBs) are designed to meet such needs.
Get a free quote now!
What is Metal Core PCB?
Get a free quote now!
Metal Core PCBs are unique circuit boards that use a metal substrate, unlike traditional FR4 PCBs. These PCBs typically feature aluminum, copper, or other alloys as their core. In some cases, special alloys are used to make the PCB lighter, more affordable, and corrosion-resistant. Metal Core PCBs are mainly used where heat generation is a concern, and the board doesn’t require complex, multi-layer designs. The metal core helps dissipate heat rapidly and evenly.
Commonly Used Metals in Metal Core PCBs
Metal Core PCBs generally use either aluminum or copper for their core:
Copper:
Copper is chosen when high thermal conductivity is essential, such as in thermoelectric separation applications. Copper also provides more mechanical strength but is heavier and more expensive than aluminum.
Aluminum:
Commonly used in LED PCBs, aluminum offers good thermal conductivity at a lower cost and weight, making it the more popular option.
Types of Metal Core PCBs
Like other PCBs, metal core versions consist of a core, dielectric insulation, and a copper circuit layer. They are distinguished by their exposed metal core, which is typically aluminum or copper. The core’s thickness varies between 1 mm to 1.6 mm, depending on the application. The four main types of Metal Core PCBs include:
Single-Layer Metal Core:
Commonly used for simple LED lighting and industrial relays due to its affordability.
Thermoelectric Separation Metal Core:
Ideal for high-power LEDs, this design enables better thermal efficiency, though it is more expensive.
Double-Layer Metal Core:
Offers more routing possibilities and is suitable for compact designs like power modules and amplifiers.
Multilayer Metal Core:
Utilized when more complex designs are required, though thermal management is more challenging and fabrication costs increase.
Advantages of Metal Core PCBs
Enhanced Heat Management:
Metal Core PCBs dissipate heat efficiently, eliminating the need for additional cooling components.
Lamination:
Copper layers are laminated to the substrate under heat and pressure, solidifying the board.
Improved Durability:
The metal core provides ruggedness, making the PCB more durable.
Recyclable:
The metal core is environmentally friendly and recyclable.
Applications of Metal Core PCBs
LED Lighting:
Metal Core PCBs are essential in LED lighting due to their superior heat dissipation, especially in high-power LEDs used in automotive headlights, floodlights, and commercial lighting.
Power Switching:
Industrial relays and power supplies often use Metal Core PCBs for heat management.
Automotive Electronics:
The engine control units (ECUs) and other automotive parts that operate near high heat sources benefit from metal core PCBs for thermal management.
Why Choose ESPCBA for Metal Core PCBs?
ESPCBA, a trusted Chinese Metal Core PCB manufacturer, has been delivering high-quality services since 2007. Here’s why you should choose ESPCBA for your PCB needs:
Proven Expertise:
With over 16 years in the industry, ESPCBA has earned the trust of more than 1,000 global clients.
Competitive Pricing:
China offers affordable manufacturing costs without compromising on quality.
Quality Assurance:
ESPCBA follows stringent ISO9001:2015 and UL-certified quality management systems.
Fast Delivery:
With efficient logistics and contingency plans, ESPCBA ensures timely product delivery.
Post-Sales Assistance:
ESPCBA provides excellent customer support and lifecycle management.
Connect with us
Get an Instant Online Quote Today
Looking for reliable SMD assembly services? At ESPCBA, we’re your trusted partner for PCB fabrication, component sourcing, and electronic manufacturing. With over 16 years of experience, we’ve provided high-quality PCBs at competitive prices to over 1,000 customers worldwide. Our company is ISO9001:2015 certified and UL listed, and every product we deliver is 100% E-tested and inspected using AOI and X-ray to meet the highest standards. Get an instant quote from our sales team today, and let us handle the rest for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While most Metal Core PCBs are single-layer, double-sided, multilayer, and thermoelectric separation MCPCBs are also available.
A typical stackup includes a metal base (aluminum, copper, etc.), a dielectric layer for insulation, and a copper trace for circuitry.
Metal Core PCBs use metals like aluminum or copper, while FR4 uses fiberglass. Metal Core PCBs excel in heat dissipation, making them ideal for high-power applications.
Thermal conductivity ranges from 1W/m·K to 400W/m·K, depending on the material used.