Leading Global 10 Aluminum PCB Manufacturers- Jarnistech

Double Sided LED Aluminum PCB Circuit Board

Aluminum printed circuit boards, commonly known as aluminum PCBs, have seen a surge in usage across various electronics and electrical applications that demand thermal conductivity, rigidity, and strength. Aluminum, with its lightweight nature, anti-corrosive properties, and efficient heat dissipation capabilities, has emerged as a superior alternative to traditional FR-4 and glass fabric circuit boards.

Aluminum PCBs find extensive utility in sectors such as LED lighting, power electronics, automotive engineering, aerospace and defense, telecommunications infrastructure, and more. These boards exhibit resilience to high temperatures and possess commendable thermal endurance. Noteworthy is their ability to provide structural integrity and resistance against warping or deformation when subjected to stress.

In this article, we present a compilation of the top 10 global manufacturers of aluminum PCBs. The evaluation and ranking of these prominent industry players are based on criteria such as company profile, service offerings, quality standards, technological advancements, reliability, and customer feedback.

The Rise of Aluminum PCBs

Aluminum PCBs (printed circuit boards) have emerged as a revolutionary technology in the electronics industry, offering significant advantages over traditional FR4 and other substrate materials. The unique properties of aluminum, such as its high thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and lightweight, make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

Key Factors Driving the Rise of Aluminum PCBs:

Increased Power Density: Aluminum’s excellent thermal conductivity allows it to dissipate heat more efficiently, enabling the use of higher power components in a smaller footprint.

Miniaturization: The lightweight and thin profile of aluminum PCBs make them ideal for compact and portable devices where space is at a premium.

Improved Signal Integrity: Aluminum’s high electrical conductivity reduces signal loss and crosstalk, ensuring reliable data transmission.

Cost-Effectiveness: Advances in manufacturing techniques have made aluminum PCBs more cost-competitive than ever before, making them a viable option for a wider range of applications.

Applications of Aluminum PCBs:

The versatility of aluminum PCBs has led to their adoption in various industries, including:

●Automotive electronics (power modules, lighting systems)
●Industrial automation (motor drives, power supplies)
●Telecommunications (base stations, network equipment)
●Aerospace and defense (radar systems, satellite components)
●Medical devices (implantable devices, diagnostic equipment)

Benefits of Aluminum PCBs:

High Thermal Conductivity: Aluminum dissipates heat up to 10 times faster than FR4, enabling higher power handling and reducing thermal stress on components.

Lightweight: Aluminum is significantly lighter than FR4, making it ideal for portable and weight-sensitive applications.

Electrical Conductivity: Aluminum’s high electrical conductivity ensures low signal loss and crosstalk, improving signal integrity.

Durability and Reliability: Aluminum PCBs are resistant to moisture, corrosion, and harsh environmental conditions.

Cost-Effectiveness: Advances in manufacturing have made aluminum PCBs cost-competitive with traditional substrates.

As the demand for high-performance, compact, and reliable electronics continues to grow, aluminum PCBs are poised to play an increasingly vital role in the future of the industry.

Top 10 Aluminum PCB Manufacturers in the World

1.AT&S (Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik)
2.JarnistechTechnology Co., Ltd.
3.Sunstone Circuits
4.Electronic Systems Protection, Inc.
5.Imagineering, Inc.
6.Epec Engineered Technologies
7.Celestica Inc.
8.Advanced Assembly
9.Multi-CB
10.Rigid PCB Division – EBTEK

These manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in the aluminum PCB industry, offering a wide range of capabilities, from high-volume production to advanced prototyping services. They adhere to the highest quality standards, including IPC and UL certifications, ensuring the reliability and performance of their products.

1.AT&S (Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik)

AT&S stands as the largest PCB manufacturer in Europe and a prominent global supplier of high-end HDI, IC substrates, and automotive printed circuit boards.

The company specializes in aluminum PCB fabrication, catering primarily to industries that demand high reliability, such as aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and industrial automation. AT&S offers a range of key capabilities in aluminum PCB production, including:

●Headquarters located in Leoben, Austria, with manufacturing facilities situated in Austria, India, China, and Korea.
●Expertise in producing high layer count and HDI multilayer aluminum boards.
●Utilization of sequential laminating and pin-through-hole (PTH) plating processes.
●Provision of thermal design and simulation services.
●Proficiency in developing rigid-flex constructions integrating aluminum and FR4 materials.
●Adherence to stringent quality standards for defense, aerospace, and automotive specifications.

Leveraging their cutting-edge research and development initiatives alongside a diverse technological portfolio, AT&S delivers advanced aluminum PCB solutions tailored to meet the stringent requirements of mission-critical applications.

2.JarnisTech

JarnisTech Technology stands out as the premier global manufacturer of aluminum PCBs, specializing in prototype and medium to high-volume production. With a rich history of over 15 years, the company excels in aluminum PCB design, fabrication, and assembly services.

Employing advanced manufacturing techniques and stringent quality control measures, JarnisTech Technology consistently delivers reliable and high-performance aluminum printed circuit boards. Their expertise extends to the production of double-sided, multilayer, and high-density interconnect (HDI) aluminum PCBs.

Key highlights and advantages of JarnisTech Technology include:

●Situated in Shenzhen, China, a hub renowned for technological innovation.
●Equipped with high-precision aluminum PCB production lines.
●Proficiency in manufacturing intricate board geometries and structures.
●Competitive pricing strategies offering cost-effective solutions.
●Swift turnaround times from design conceptualization to final delivery.
●Commitment to providing exceptional customer service and technical support.

Collaborating with clientele across diverse industries such as automotive, industrial, consumer electronics, medical, telecommunications infrastructure, and military sectors, JarnisTech Technology emerges as the preferred partner for translating aluminum PCB design concepts into tangible realities.

3.Sunstone Circuits

Sunstone Circuits is a prominent PCB manufacturer based in the United States, offering services ranging from prototype to medium volume production. In the realm of aluminum PCB fabrication, they provide a comprehensive range of solutions, including:

●Single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer aluminum boards.
●Production capabilities starting at 25 pieces.
●Utilization of FR4, Rogers, Isola, and Taconic laminates.
●Minimum line width/space of 6/6 mils.
●Lead times ranging from 5 to 15 working days.
●Particularly well-suited for applications in aerospace, aviation, and defense industries.
●Online ordering platform and design for manufacturing assistance to streamline the process.

With manufacturing facilities based in the USA, Sunstone Circuits fosters enhanced customer collaboration and ensures controlled production processes. Their emphasis on quick-turn low volume aluminum PCB production, coupled with accessible customer service, positions them as an ideal partner for prototyping endeavors.

4.Electronic Systems Protection, Inc

Electronic Systems Protection (ESP) specializes in the custom design and manufacturing of high-reliability printed circuit boards, including aluminum PCB solutions.

ESP’s notable aluminum PCB capabilities include:

●Headquarters located in Clifton, New Jersey, USA.
●Swift turnaround for prototypes and low to medium volume production.
●Expertise in rigid and multilayer aluminum PCBs.
●Utilization of FR4, polyimides, and Rogers laminates in constructions.
●Tailored solutions for harsh environmental conditions and extended thermal cycles.
●Customized design and fabrication processes to suit specific application requirements.
●Proficiency in crafting high-complexity boards for aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors.

Bringing over 25 years of PCB experience to the table, ESP is dedicated to delivering robust and high-performance aluminum PCB solutions tailored to meet the unique demands of strategic niche applications.

5.Imagineering, Inc.

Imagineering is a leading provider of advanced manufacturing services, specializing in the development of engineering-driven solutions for PCB, cable, and mechanical applications. The company is particularly focused on offering aluminum PCB fabrication tailored to meet the stringent requirements of the aerospace and defense sectors.

Key capabilities in aluminum PCB fabrication at Imagineering include:

●A dedicated R&D lab for rapid prototyping capabilities.
●Expertise in flex and rigid-flex circuits incorporating aluminum materials.
●Ability to manufacture multilayer aluminum boards with up to 28 layers.
●Precision in line width/spaces down to 0.003 inches.
●Capability to produce panel sizes up to 24 inches by 32 inches or larger.
●Proficiency in various processes such as bare board PTH, press-fit, and plated hole techniques.

Imagineering leverages digital collaborative tools to streamline design cycles, expedite manufacturing processes, and enhance overall quality standards. With a strong foundation in engineering services, they are well-positioned to serve as a strategic partner for driving innovation in aluminum PCB solutions.

6.Epec Engineered Technologies

Epec is a comprehensive electronics manufacturing company that offers a range of services including PCB design, fabrication, component assembly, and box build services. With a focus on technical expertise, Epec is capable of producing custom aluminum PCBs tailored for specialized applications.

Epec’s aluminum PCB capabilities encompass:

●Providing prototypes to short runs with quantities of up to 500 boards.
●Expertise in single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer constructions.
●Offering a selection of laminates including FR4, Rogers, Taconic, and Arlon.
●Designing layouts optimized for superior thermal performance.
●Providing design for manufacturing and assembly services to enhance efficiency.
●Conducting testing and verification processes as required.
●Particularly suitable for aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial applications.

Located in New Bedford, Massachusetts, with manufacturing facilities in the United States, Epec is known for its specialization in delivering high-mix, low-volume, and quick-turn engineered solutions in the field of custom aluminum PCB manufacturing.

7.Celestica Inc.

Celestica is a globally recognized electronics manufacturing services company that caters to a diverse range of industries including aerospace, communications, medical, smart energy, and industrial sectors. Within their circuit board fabrication division, they specialize in offering efficient solutions for the production of aluminum PCBs, catering to both quick-turn prototype needs and high-volume production demands.

Key highlights of Celestica’s aluminum PCB manufacturing capabilities include:

●Ability to manufacture multilayer aluminum boards with up to 28 layers.
●Range of thickness options from 0.031 inches to 0.250 inches or more.
●Availability of copper thicknesses up to 2 ounces.
●Utilization of various laminates such as FR4, polyimide, and ceramic-based materials.
●Precision in fineline PCB processing down to 3/3 mils.
●Global reach with facilities in the Americas, Europe, and Asia to serve clients worldwide.

Celestica distinguishes itself by providing comprehensive product lifecycle solutions spanning from initial design to delivery and post-market support. Their proficiency in handling intricate PCB technologies positions them as a reliable and valued manufacturing partner for a wide array of industries.

8.Advanced Assembly

Advanced Assembly is a distinguished contract manufacturer located in Aurora, Colorado, USA, with a proud veteran-owned status. In addition to their standard PCB fabrication and assembly services, they offer a specialized aluminum PCB manufacturing service that leverages over 30 years of industry experience.

Key capabilities of Advanced Assembly in aluminum PCB manufacturing include:

●Providing prototypes ranging from single units to mid-volume production quantities.
●Expertise in both single-sided and multi-layer constructions.
●Utilizing FR4 and ceramic filled dielectric materials for enhanced performance.
●Offering customization options for board thickness and aluminum alloy selection.
●Accommodating pad and trace geometries down to 4 mil line/spaces.
●Comprehensive design support throughout the prototyping and testing stages.
●Tailored for applications in aerospace, military, and industrial equipment sectors.

Advanced Assembly excels in high mix/low to medium volume manufacturing, making them an ideal choice for fulfilling custom aluminum PCB requirements in specialized markets such as defense, industrial, and other niche industries.

9.Multi-CB

Multi-CB is a reputable manufacturer that offers a diverse range of PCB solutions, including rigid PCBs, flex PCBs, RF/microwave PCBs, HDI boards, and aluminum PCBs. They are committed to delivering cost-effective prototyping and volume production services that adhere to the highest quality standards.

In their aluminum PCB fabrication process, Multi-CB utilizes top-tier aluminum bases that are clad with dielectric materials such as FR4 epoxy, PTFE, Rogers, Taconic TLY, and Arlon. Their offerings include:

●Capability to produce prototypes and volume production quantities of up to 1000 pieces per month.
●Manufacturing of 2-layer to 12+ multilayer aluminum boards.
●Precision in line width and spacing down to 4/4 mil.
●Ability to achieve hole sizes as small as 0.15mm and hole pitch of 0.2mm.
●Suitable for various applications including LED lighting, medical devices, industrial equipment, and automotive electronics.
●Operating facilities in China with a sales office in California, USA.

Multi-CB specializes in providing tailored aluminum PCB manufacturing solutions to meet the specific requirements of diverse industry applications and standards.

10.Rigid PCB Division – EBTEK

EBTEK is a leading technology company specializing in rigid PCB solutions, with a dedicated Rigid PCB Division that focuses on the engineering, prototyping, and volume production of aluminum printed circuit boards.

Their state-of-the-art fabrication system enables the manufacturing of single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer aluminum PCBs. EBTEK is known for producing heavy copper, fine line, and controlled impedance aluminum boards that adhere to IPC standards.

Here are some key details regarding EBTEK’s aluminum PCB capabilities:

●Located in Zhuhai, China.
●Capable of producing both prototype and production quantities.
●Offers 2 to 20 layers of aluminum multilayer boards.
●Board thickness ranges from 0.8mm to 6mm.
●Capable of manufacturing high voltage boards up to 2500V.
●Utilizes a HAL lead-free soldering process.

EBTEK caters to a variety of markets, including industrial automation, automotive electronics, consumer products, telecom infrastructure, medical equipment, and railway transit. They provide cost-effective aluminum PCB solutions while maintaining a commitment to quality and exceptional service.

Common Queries and Answers

Q: Why Choose Aluminum PCBs, not FR4 PCB?

Aluminum PCBs offer superior thermal performance, mechanical strength, and rigidity compared to FR4 PCBs. Their metallic construction facilitates efficient heat dissipation, making them optimal for high-power applications.

Q: What are Applications about Aluminum PCBs?

Typical applications include:

●LED lighting
●Automotive electronics
●Power modules
●Inverters
●Locomotive controls
●Telecom/network infrastructure
●Aerospace/defense systems

Q: How Many Types for Aluminum PCB Constructions?

Common constructions include:

●Single-sided: Copper traces on one aluminum surface
●Double-sided: Copper on both aluminum surfaces
●Multilayer: Alternating layers of dielectric and aluminum
●Metal core PCBs: Dielectric with an aluminum base

Q: Design and Fabrication Requirements for Quality Aluminum PCBs

Exceptional aluminum PCBs require:

●Thermal modeling and simulation expertise
●Understanding of differing thermal expansion coefficients
●Optimized adhesion between dielectric films and aluminum
●Precise fabrication processes (surface preparation, imaging, plating, etching)
●Careful stackup design (dielectric materials, prepregs, copper weights)
●Selection of suitable soldermasks, legend printing options, and via/hole plating processes

Q: Quality Control and Reliability Testing of Aluminum PCBs

Rigorous testing ensures aluminum PCB quality and reliability, including:

●Dimensional measurements
●Dielectric thickness
●Hole quality assessment (diameter, barrel plating, elongation)
●Plating thickness and adhesion testing
●Continuity testing
●High-voltage electrical testing
●Thermal stress testing
●Microsection analysis
●Visual workmanship inspection

Summary

In conclusion, the global aluminum PCB market is competitive, with numerous manufacturers vying for the top spot. However, the top 10 manufacturers highlighted in this article have proven themselves to be industry leaders in providing high-quality aluminum PCB solutions. Whether you are in need of prototypes, small-scale production, or large volume orders, these manufacturers offer the expertise and capabilities to meet your specific requirements. When choosing an aluminum PCB manufacturer, it is essential to consider factors such as reputation, experience, quality standards, and customer reviews to ensure you are working with a trusted and reliable partner.