scope:

Abstract

Conformal coatings are thin layers of polymers applied to the surfaces of electronic assemblies, primarily to protect the electronics from the operational environment. In most manufacturing specifications, conformal coating thickness is defined as the thickness of the final polymer film on a flat, unencumbered surface of the assembly. However, the conformal coating thickness on other assembly and component surfaces are usually uncharacterized. This report outlines an IPC study of major conformal coating types, coating application techniques, and coating cure technologies, characterizing the final film thickness on common component surfaces. The study included volunteers from numerous manufacturing companies who applied coating using vetted manufacturing processes for the production of high reliability electronics.