At M-Tek Assembly, we have been designing and manufacturing various printed circuit boards (PCBs) for businesses in all types of industries. But, did you know that there are certain aspects that can cause the board and its components to overheat? Without proper care or consideration for certain factors, this can be a common occurrence.

Let’s explore the different causes of why PCBs overheat and what our electronic manufacturing company can do to help.

Incorrect Placement of Components

For PCBs, especially certain high-power devices, components need to be placed in areas with the right airflow. Whether it be natural or forced, this airflow will help transfer the heat away. As a result, items ought to be put in areas with vents or sufficient airflow.

The printed circuit board will retain the majority of the heat in the absence of good ventilation and heat removal. This will gradually increase the temperature and cause faulty circuit operation or damage. Additionally, keep in mind that placing fragile PCB components next to heat-emitting ones will subject them to thermal stress.

Hot spots can form on PCBs as a result of high-power components like power transistors. However, it is possible to maintain temperatures within safe ranges with correct heat sinking and natural or forced cooling.

Environmental Factors

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) should be constructed in specific environments. Certain environments can expose the components to thermal stresses and make the board overheat.

If high temperatures are not factored into the PCB assembly process, this can result in the components being put under excessive pressure. Also, there are outside factors that if mixed into the assembly can cause defects. This includes extreme cold temperatures and moisture or substances such as dirt, dust and fibre.

Poor PCB Designs

One of the most fundamental PCB design ideas is the layout of the components on the board. The order of the remaining components should be connectors first, then power circuits, precise circuits, critical circuits, and finally the remaining components.

Power output, noise susceptibility, generation, and routing capacity are a few variables that have an impact on the circuit's routing priority. Therefore, it's crucial to check that these components are arranged correctly and that there are spaces between them.

Without proper care, or the components placed too closely together, this will result in overheating. At M-Tek, we have over 20 years of experience in manufacturing printed circuit boards in large volumes. We have various resources to ensure our PCB assemblies are carefully planned out and manufactured efficiently. Find out more about our services here.

Wrong Components

Sometimes, it’s as simple as not following the guidelines. For printed circuit board assembly, the electronic manufacturers should ensure the datasheet is studied and that the correct components are utilised at all times. Otherwise, this can lead to PCBs overheating. Information should be provided that states the thermal resistance and temperature limits of the printed circuit board, in order to avoid any heating issues.

Printed circuit boards are typically made to withstand high heats. Especially in the electronic manufacturing industry. So, overheating should not be an issue. Make sure that you find a reputable supplier and manufacturer that can guarantee efficient PCBs, without damaging any components. 

M-Tek Assembly Ltd.

Here at M-TEK, we understand the importance printed circuit boards can have in a variety of industries. When it comes to PCBs, you should have the confidence that each electrical component runs efficiently for your business. 

Contact one of our SMT and PCB assembly experts today for assistance. Call us at 01189 455377 or follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on our services.