Physical PCB Sample "Digital solder mask"
Sample for the presentation “Design rules for digital solder mask- what are the current possibilities?” at the FED conference on 18.09.2024
This hand sample demonstrates the new possibilities of additively applied solder mask, also known as s.mask. An outstanding new feature is 3D printing in height. In a similar way to conventional 3D printing with materials such as PLA or ABS, the solder mask is applied in layers with a thickness of around 40 μm per layer. However, extremely steep edges cannot be realized. A certain gradation of the flanks is necessary. In this way, structure heights of up to 1400 μm (1.4 mm) can be achieved.
Description: The highlighted 3D structures can be used in a variety of ways. As graphic elements, they are suitable for brand logos or company branding, for example. If only frames are printed, they can be used as protective elements or potting frames. Free-standing bodies can be used as mechanical structures, supports or spacers.
Design/description: The highlighted elements are used to protect delicate structures on the surfaces in between. Particularly with minimal structure widths, these fine elements must be protected from heavy mechanical stress, such as damage during handling during transportation by the PCB manufacturer or EMS service provider.
Design/description: These elements are used to increase the creepage distance between neighboring conductive areas and elements on the PCB surface. As a result, the creepage distance can be significantly extended despite the distance between the conductive areas on the surface remaining the same. This is achieved by increasing and thus lengthening the path in the Z-axis using acrylic lacquer.
Design/description: Thanks to additive printing technology, it is sufficient to print varnish only on the areas of the design to be protected and covered, such as copper traces and surfaces.
Design/description: Thanks to the very small drop size, extremely fine structures can be printed. The limits were deliberately undercut slightly for the sample. Nevertheless, structure sizes of 0.4 x 0.63 mm can be realized.
Design/description: In these areas, QR codes are displayed in various sizes, resolutions and contrasts - either on copper or exclusively on the insulator/preprepreg.
Design/description: DataMatrix codes are printed in the sizes 2.5 x 2.5 mm, 1.6 x 1.6 mm and 1.1 x 1.1 mm.
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