Conformal coating masking dots FAQs
Why use a dot for conformal coating masking compared to any other dots available on the market?
How cost effective are the SCH conformal coating masking dots?
Why does my masking dot make the conformal coating run away and create a “halo” around it?
Why use a dot for conformal coating masking compared to any other dots available on the market?
Most masking dots can create problems during conformal coating processing. The materials that they are fabricated from are just not compatible with the application process.
Problems can include:
- The masking dots reacting with conformal coatings and leading to problems such as de-wetting, melting and leaking.
- Residues from the glue used being left behind on the surface of the printed circuit board when the masking dot is removed.
- Poor adhesion of the masking dot to the surface of the printed circuit board lead to bleeding and leaking of the conformal coating under the dot during the application process.
- Coating material going through the masking dot and coating the board surface.
- Tearing of the masking dot due to poor durability when removed from the circuit board.
SCH Technologies operate coating service businesses globally. We use conformal coating masking all the time. Therefore, it is critical we use suitable dots for conformal coating masking. This has led us to trial and test a lot of different dots over a long period of time.
After significant tests we have identified a suitable conformal coating masking dot that meets all of our requirements and minimises the problems.
These masking dots are available for your own production process.
How cost effective are the SCH conformal coating masking dots?
Our masking dots are not low cost. When compared to typical masking dots they can appear to be more expensive. However, this is wrong. When you compare the overall cost of the process then you discover that you save money when using the right materials.
There are many reasons for this. However, it’s all due to typical masking dots creating problems in the process that cause more work in production. When you evaluate the time taken using a lower cost inferior material versus a slightly more expensive superior material you quickly realised that it’s much more economic to use the right product.
After all, we use our conformal coating masking dots throughout our coating services all over the world. We know it’s the right dot to use.
Why does my masking dot make the conformal coating run away and create a “halo” around it?
The effect you are seeing around the masking dot is de-wetting. The conformal coating material runs away from the dot during the application process due to the silicone glue used creating an area where no coating is adhered.
To avoid this effect on your printed circuit board assembly use a compatible conformal coating masking dot like ours that uses a glue that does not repel the coating.
