Can Ceramic PCBs Be Used in Medical Devices?

Ceramic PCBs

Whether used in medical devices or high-tech aerospace systems, ceramic PCBs are an innovative technology that offers a unique blend of thermal management, durability, and electrical properties. They are also able to dissipate heat more efficiently than other types of PCBs, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. However, these advantages are not without their drawbacks. One such drawback is that ceramic substrates are more expensive than traditional materials, which can increase the cost of a final product. But with the many benefits they offer, manufacturers continue to choose ceramic PCB boards out of necessity.

In the electronics industry, there are two main types of ceramic pcb board components: through-hole (THT) and surface-mount technology (SMT). THT components use metal leads to connect the board to the other components on the circuit. They are generally more reliable than SMT components, which do not have mounting holes. THT components are often used in medical applications, where reliability is critical. The type of components and their placement on a PCB affect its overall performance, durability, and safety. Despite their superior durability, THT components are subject to a variety of environmental stresses and vibration, which can compromise the integrity of a device’s circuitry. This is why it is important to use a high-quality ceramic PCB for these applications.

When using ceramic in your PCB, it’s important to work with an experienced Electronic Contract Manufacturer to ensure that your design is compatible with the substrate material and that all layout topologies are compiled for maximum production yield. This process is called DFM, and it is a crucial step in avoiding issues that can delay or halt your project.

Can Ceramic PCBs Be Used in Medical Devices?

Regardless of the type of PCB you’re working with, your Electronics Contract Manufacturer should use high-precision laser-direct imaging and other production equipment to produce the best quality boards possible. In addition, the company should have experience making boards with different types of laminates, including FR-4, polyimide, Teflon, and ceramics. This expertise will help minimize issues in fabrication and assembly, ensuring that your ceramic PCBs are ready to perform as intended.

There are many benefits of using ceramics in your PCB, but if you’re using them in medical devices, you must consider a few key factors before placing your order. These include:

Ceramic has a low coefficient of expansion, meaning it can easily adapt to changing temperatures without compromising the structural integrity of your circuit board. It also has an exceptional thermal conductivity, allowing it to dispel excess heat from the device and prevent it from overheating. Its solid and outstanding interatomic bonds allow it to withstand extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for demanding medical environments.

The most common type of ceramic PCB is low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC). This type uses a combination of crystal glass and a ceramic substance, along with organic binders. The materials are combined and cured in an oven at 850 and 900 degrees Celsius. Then, the traces are printed on the board using a screen printing technique and silver or gold conductive pastes. This method of laying the copper traces provides a high-density circuit and reduces costs by eliminating the need for soldering.