Conformal coating masking: Electronic equipment manufacturer's use conformal coating processes to protect printed circuit modules from moisture, fumes, rapid temperature changes and other environmental conditions. Typically, pressure sensitive tapes are used to mask areas on the board where no conformal coating is to be applied. [Advanced Technology Supply; 174 Semoran Commerce Pl, Unit 120, Apopka, FL 32703; 800-793-6307 F407-880-3338 service@ats24.com] Important Considerations When Selecting A Tape Mask � You definitely do not want to spend time on the tedious task of trying to remove adhesive residue with razor blades and Q-tips when you pull the tape off. Make sure the tape backing is first primed to guarantee that the adhesive adheres to the backing and does not remain on the board when the tape is removed. � Even if your masking tape leaves no residue, if it has a release coat on the non-adhesive side you will encounter flaking of the conformal coating at the bond line when the tape is removed. Usually this means reworking the board. � Consider that your application may require low static generation when applying the tape to the board. � Conformal coating masking tapes may employ paper, polyester or polyimide backings. Ninety five percent of conformal coating demands a masking tape that gives strength, stability, conformability, and is cost effective. � Paper backings are usually not strong enough to remove without shredding in most applications, and polyimide backings are not cost effective, usually an overkill for this application. Polyester tapes typically feature the best combination of cost and performance for this application.
We have no relationship, nor receive benefit from the company referenced above.
reply »