The Impact of Moulded Thermoplastic PWBs: An Emerging Technology

The printed circuit industry is on the verge of witnessing a change in structure, brought about by the advent of Moulded Thermoplastic PCBs and accompanying electroless plating technology. Currently all fabricators use essentially similar technology and pressed laminates, except a few innovative companies who are exploring the new technology for moulded thermoplastic printed circuit boards. The new moulded PCBs (MPCBs) have many claimed advantages over traditional boards, such as: lower production costs through faster moulding fabrication; more precise drilled holes and board dimensions; custom designed hole shape and board shape; integral moulding of board and device enclosure; higher thermal stability and dimensional stability; better dielectric properties for reduced cross‐talk; and adaptable integration of circuit design and components. Certainly the industry will not change overnight, but, as changes take place, the traditional materials will be replaced by new polymers, chemicals and equipment, as MPCBs are introduced into relevant fields of application. Some firms believe that MPCBs are only a small specialised market, while others feel that they will eventually replace many of the traditional PCB constructions of today. Chem Systems has analysed these views and prepared a study which will help to discover the real impact of MPCBs on designers, fabricators and suppliers on a worldwide basis.