High-frequency materials play a crucial role in the design and performance of RF (Radio Frequency) PCBs. These specialized materials offer excellent signal integrity, low loss, and impedance control, making them essential for applications such as wireless communication, radar systems, and satellite technology. In this article, we will explore the top 20 manufacturers that excel in producing high-quality high-frequency materials for RF PCB design. These companies have established themselves as industry leaders, providing innovative solutions that meet the demanding requirements of modern RF applications.
1.Rogers Corporation
Rogers Corporation is a leading manufacturer of high-frequency materials for RF PCB design. They offer a range of advanced materials that are used in various applications such as wireless infrastructure, aerospace and defense, automotive, and more. Some of their popular high-frequency material product lines include RO4000® series, RO3000® series, and RT/duroid® series. These materials are known for their excellent electrical performance, low loss, and high reliability. Rogers Corporation is highly regarded in the industry for their innovative solutions and commitment to quality.
2.Taconic Advanced Dielectric Division
Taconic Advanced Dielectric Division is another renowned manufacturer of high-frequency materials for RF PCB design. They specialize in producing advanced laminates and prepregs that are widely used in the telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and military industries. Taconic offers a diverse range of high-frequency material options, including Teflon®-based laminates such as RF-35, RF-35A, and RF-60A, as well as ceramic-filled laminates such as TLC and TLY. These materials are known for their exceptional electrical performance, high thermal stability, and low loss characteristics. Taconic is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
3.Isola Group
Isola Group is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacturing of high-performance materials used in the PCB industry. They specialize in producing laminates, prepregs, and other advanced materials that are used in a wide range of applications, including telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and industrial electronics. Isola offers a comprehensive portfolio of materials, including FR-4 laminates, high-speed digital materials, RF/microwave materials, and high-temperature materials. These materials are known for their excellent electrical properties, thermal stability, and reliability. Isola Group is known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer support, making them a trusted partner for PCB material solutions.
4.Panasonic Corporation
This renowned global technology company is widely acknowledged as a leader in the electronics industry. They offer a diverse range of services and products, encompassing smart mobility, industrial devices, tablets, computers, AV solutions, and more.
One of the key areas of expertise for this company lies in the manufacturing of PCB materials and advanced films. With the rapid advancement of PCB technologies and semiconductors, they have successfully met the evolving demands of customers by developing optimal materials that cater to next-generation technologies. This includes the development of compound material design technology, materials evaluation technology, and cutting-edge resin design technology, all of which contribute to the creation of state-of-the-art electronics.
By implementing a robust quality assurance system that integrates manufacturing management methods such as Statistical Process Control (SPC), this company is able to deliver multilayer laminates and materials that consistently meet the requirements of customers. These materials find extensive application in various PCB-based products, ranging from household appliances and mobile devices to network antennas.
5.Park Electrochemical Corp
Park Electrochemical Corp is a global advanced materials company that specializes in the design, development, and manufacture of high-performance materials and components for the electronics industry. They offer a wide range of products, including high-density interconnect materials, thermal management materials, and advanced composite materials.
Park Electrochemical Corp’s high-density interconnect materials, such as its Nelco brand, are used in the fabrication of multilayer printed circuit boards (PCBs) for applications in telecommunications, aerospace, and automotive industries. These materials provide excellent electrical performance, low loss characteristics, and high reliability.
Their thermal management materials, marketed under the Thermaclad brand, are used in electronic assemblies to dissipate heat efficiently. These materials offer high thermal conductivity and excellent thermal stability, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of electronic devices.
In addition, Park Electrochemical Corp also provides advanced composite materials, including prepregs and adhesives, which are used in aerospace and other demanding applications. These materials offer high strength, lightweight properties, and excellent resistance to chemicals and environmental conditions.
6.Arlon, LLC
Arlon, LLC is a global manufacturer of high-performance materials and engineered substrates for the electronics industry. They specialize in the development and production of advanced materials used in printed circuit boards (PCBs), antennas, and other electronic components.
Arlon offers a wide range of products, including thermoset and thermoplastic laminates, prepregs, and RF/microwave materials. These materials are known for their exceptional electrical performance, thermal stability, and mechanical strength. They are used in various applications, including telecommunications, aerospace, automotive, and industrial electronics.
Their thermoset laminates, branded under the name “Arlon,” are widely used in high-frequency and high-speed digital applications. These laminates offer low loss characteristics, excellent signal integrity, and high reliability.
Arlon’s thermoplastic materials, known as “Arlon Fluoropolymer Films,” provide exceptional electrical insulation and chemical resistance. They are used in flexible PCBs, wire and cable insulation, and other applications requiring high-temperature performance.
In addition to laminates and films, Arlon also offers specialty materials such as metal-clad laminates, copper clad laminates, and adhesive systems. These materials are designed to meet specific customer requirements and are used in demanding applications where reliability and performance are critical.
7.Nelco Products, Inc
Nelco is a prominent global entity renowned for its comprehensive range of solutions and products in medical shielding and industrial sectors. Within the domain of printed circuit boards (PCBs), the company excels in the production of materials that offer exceptional mechanical and thermal performance. With a rich history spanning over 85 years, Nelco has consistently delivered innovative solutions, establishing itself as a global leader in the industry.
All Nelco materials strictly adhere to RoHS compliance, ensuring environmental friendliness. These materials not only exhibit resistance to Conductive Anodic Filament (CAF) and high thermal reliability but also offer compatibility with lead-free assembly processes. Nelco provides an extensive selection of materials for PCB fabrication, encompassing BT, Cyanate Ester, Polyimide, high-speed epoxy, and high-Tg epoxy.
Designed to cater to the needs of high layer count PCBs and high-speed digital applications, Nelco’s PCB materials find application in various industries such as lead-free assemblies, backplanes, automotive, wireless infrastructure and handsets, as well as networking and communications equipment.
Nelco’s product portfolio includes hydrocarbon prepregs and laminates, featuring HB-360, HF-350 FTC, HF-350F, HF-330F, and HF-300F. Additionally, the company offers a wide range of RF/Microwave materials, glass-reinforced woven PTFE laminates, specialty materials, as well as prepregs/bond plies.
Through their commitment to excellence and a diverse range of high-quality materials, Nelco continues to meet the evolving demands of the PCB industry, catering to the needs of various applications with their advanced and reliable solutions.
8.Ventec International Group
Ventec offers a wide range of products under various brand names, including their flagship product line, VT-4B high-speed/low-loss laminate and prepreg. These materials are designed to meet the demanding requirements of high-speed digital and RF/microwave applications, offering excellent signal integrity, low loss, and high reliability.
In addition to laminates and prepregs, Ventec also provides a range of complementary products such as copper foils, thermal management materials, and assembly materials. Their thermal management materials, such as VT-5A2 and VT-5A4, offer high thermal conductivity and excellent dielectric properties, ensuring efficient heat dissipation in electronic assemblies.
Ventec is committed to innovation and continuously invests in research and development to offer cutting-edge materials and solutions. They have manufacturing facilities and sales offices strategically located around the world, allowing them to serve customers globally and provide localized support.
9.DuPont
In the electronics industry, DuPont offers a range of products and solutions, particularly in the field of electronic materials. They provide materials for various applications, including printed circuit boards (PCBs), semiconductors, and displays.
DuPont’s electronic materials portfolio includes specialty films, laminates, and adhesives. Their products are designed to enhance the performance, reliability, and durability of electronic devices. For example, their Kapton polyimide films are widely used in flexible PCBs, where they provide excellent electrical insulation and thermal stability.
In addition to films, DuPont also offers advanced laminates and prepregs for PCB manufacturing. Their Pyralux laminates and Riston dry film photoresists are well-known in the industry for their high-quality performance and reliability.
DuPont’s electronic materials division also focuses on developing materials for emerging technologies, such as flexible and printed electronics, wearable devices, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. They collaborate with industry partners and customers to drive innovation and develop solutions that address the evolving needs of the electronics industry.
10.ITEQ Corporation
ITEQ Corporation is a global manufacturer of high-quality printed circuit board (PCB) materials. The company specializes in the production of laminates and prepregs for various applications, including automotive, telecommunications, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment.
ITEQ offers a wide range of PCB materials that are designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern electronic devices. Their product portfolio includes high-speed digital materials, low-loss materials, high-frequency materials, and high-thermal materials.
One of ITEQ’s flagship products is the IT-180 series, which is a high-speed digital material known for its excellent signal integrity and low loss. It is widely used in applications such as high-speed data transmission, networking, and computing.
In addition to high-speed digital materials, ITEQ also provides a range of low-loss materials that are suitable for applications requiring high-frequency performance. Their IT-88 series offers low dielectric loss, low insertion loss, and excellent heat dissipation properties, making it ideal for applications in the RF/microwave field.
ITEQ is committed to research and development, continuously working on new innovations and improvements to meet the evolving needs of the electronics industry. They collaborate with customers and industry partners to develop customized solutions and provide technical support.
11.Kingboard Chemical Holdings Ltd
Kingboard Chemical Holdings Ltd is a Hong Kong-based company that operates in the chemical and electronic materials industries. The company engages in the manufacturing and distribution of various products, including laminates, copper-clad laminates (CCL), and electronic chemicals.
In the electronic materials segment, Kingboard Chemical is a leading manufacturer of laminates and CCL, which are essential components in the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs). Their laminates are used as the substrate for PCBs, providing electrical insulation and mechanical support for the circuitry.
Kingboard Chemical offers a wide range of laminates and CCL products that cater to different applications and industries. Their products are known for their high-quality performance and reliability. They serve various sectors, including telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment.
The company invests in research and development to develop innovative products and solutions that address the evolving needs of the electronics industry. They focus on improving the performance and efficiency of their laminates and CCL to meet the demands of high-speed and high-frequency applications.
12.Shengyi Technology Co., Ltd
Shengyi Technology Co., Ltd is a leading manufacturer of high-quality printed circuit board (PCB) materials based in China. The company specializes in the production of laminates, copper-clad laminates (CCL), and prepregs for various applications in the electronics industry.
Shengyi Technology offers a comprehensive portfolio of PCB materials designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern electronic devices. Their product range includes high-speed digital materials, low-loss materials, high-frequency materials, and high-thermal materials.
The company’s high-speed digital materials, such as the SY-85 series, are known for their excellent signal integrity, low loss, and high reliability. These materials are widely used in applications like high-speed data transmission, networking, and computing.
Shengyi Technology also provides a range of low-loss materials that offer exceptional performance in high-frequency applications. Their SY-88 series is designed to have low dielectric loss, low insertion loss, and excellent heat dissipation properties, making it suitable for RF/microwave applications.
In addition to laminates and CCL, Shengyi Technology produces prepregs, which are used as the adhesive layer in multilayer PCBs. Their prepregs offer excellent bonding strength, thermal stability, and compatibility with a wide range of base materials.
13.Taiwan Union Technology Corporation
Taiwan Union Technology Corporation, commonly known as TUC, is a Taiwan-based company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of high-quality electronic materials and chemicals. The company offers a wide range of products that cater to the needs of various industries, including electronics, telecommunications, automotive, and aerospace.
TUC’s product portfolio includes electronic materials such as solder masks, high-performance resin systems, specialty coatings, and adhesives. These materials are essential components in the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic devices, providing insulation, protection, and adhesion.
The company is known for its advanced technology and innovative solutions. TUC invests heavily in research and development to develop new materials and improve existing ones. They focus on developing environmentally friendly materials that meet international standards and regulations.
TUC prioritizes quality control and has established stringent quality management systems to ensure the reliability and consistency of their products. They strive to meet customer requirements and provide excellent technical support and customer service.
In addition to electronic materials, TUC also offers a range of specialty chemicals and materials for various applications, including industrial coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Their specialty chemicals are used in industries such as automotive, construction, and consumer goods.
14.Ticer
Established in 1884 under the name Gould Electronic Materials, Ticer Technologies has evolved into a premier manufacturer of electrodeposited copper foil. In 1999, the company introduced TCR®, a groundbreaking resistor technology that addresses the demands of aggressive new applications and enhances the performance of advanced printed circuit boards (PCBs).
Ticer Technologies specializes in the production of high-performance, thin film embedded-resistor copper foils designed for RF and digital PCBs. This next-generation technology for embedded resistors is ideally suited to tackle the challenges posed by emerging materials and designs, meeting the increasing performance requirements of current and future electronic packages.
Leveraging the reliability and capabilities of TCR, Ticer Technologies offers cutting-edge solutions that incorporate the latest advancements in laminate systems. These solutions not only comply with RoHS standards but also exhibit compatibility with various resin systems, including high-performance, standard, specialty, and lead-free products. Moreover, TCR enables increased component space, reduced PCB weight, and overall improved product performance. It also provides exceptional thermal stability, ensuring reliable operation under demanding conditions.
Ticer Technologies’ commitment to innovation and the production of high-quality materials has positioned them as a trusted provider in the industry. Their advanced solutions empower customers to address the evolving needs of the PCB market while delivering superior performance and reliability.
15.ThinFlex
ThinFlex, a Taiwan-based company, specializes in the manufacturing and distribution of high-frequency materials, including coverlays and flexible copper clad laminates (FCCLs). Renowned for its commitment to excellence, ThinFlex has established a strong reputation in the industry.
One notable product from ThinFlex, bearing the same name, has made a significant impact in the PCB market. The company is highly regarded for its cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions, positioning it among the top players in the IC and FCCL packaging industries.
ThinFlex offers a range of products, including single-sided adhesiveless copper clad laminates and double-sided adhesiveless copper clad laminates. The single-sided type is well-known for its exceptional textural endurance, dimensional stability, and high tensile strength. Conversely, the double-sided type is recognized for its impressive chemical and heat resistance, etching capabilities, and high flexural endurance.
Flexible copper clad laminates find application in various manufacturing processes, including medical equipment, cell phones, cameras, LCD panels, aerospace products, fax machines, printers, computers, photocopiers, scanners, and industrial equipment.
Coverslays, another product offered by ThinFlex, are utilized during the manufacturing of notebook computers, cameras, printers, household computers, cell phones, scanners, and more. These coverlays play a crucial role in providing protection and enhancing the functionality of electronic devices.
ThinFlex’s dedication to delivering high-quality products and its focus on technological advancements have solidified its position as a trusted manufacturer in the industry. By catering to diverse applications and providing reliable solutions, ThinFlex continues to meet the evolving needs of the PCB market.
16.Tatsuta
TATSUTA, a company with a rich history in the electric cable and wire business, is dedicated to conducting research and meeting customer needs through sustainable processes. They supply high-performance electric cables, wires, and functional materials that find applications in bonding wires, printed circuit boards, medical products, sensors, and more.
The company’s value materials play a pivotal role in advanced technologies. TATSUTA manufactures a wide range of optical components and electronic materials, including FFC application films, EMI shielding film, optical fiber couplers, and conductive paste.
Notably, TATSUTA’s CBF300 and AE3030 materials are widely utilized by various companies. These copper pastes serve as effective non-conductive or conductive materials for via hole fill applications. With exceptional thermal conductivity, they are particularly efficient in constructing thermal vias for numerous high-heat applications.
TATSUTA’s commitment to innovation and the development of high-quality materials has positioned them as a trusted provider in the industry. Their products enable customers to enhance the performance and reliability of their applications, while also contributing to the advancement of cutting-edge technologies.
17.Sheldahl
Sheldahl is a renowned high-frequency material manufacturer that has established itself as a leader in the industry. With expertise in thin film deposition on adhesive formulations, flexible materials, patterning, finishing, and laminations, the company excels in producing these components at high volumes using state-of-the-art technology and equipment.
With a remarkable experience spanning over 65 years, Sheldahl takes pride in its industry leadership, consistently delivering exceptional quality and ensuring utmost customer satisfaction. The brand’s materials encompass a diverse range of specialty products, including flexible laminates, cable tapes, high-performance splicing tapes, advanced coated films, and flexible materials tailored for various global markets.
Sheldahl’s manufacturing capabilities extend to substrates ranging from as thin as 1.5 micrometers to as thick as 350 micrometers. The company produces circuits and materials for a wide array of industries, including medical, health solutions, defense and aerospace, automotive, heaters, human-machine interface, consumer electronics, and industrial applications.
By catering to diverse sectors, Sheldahl demonstrates its versatility and ability to meet the unique requirements of each industry. With a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and customer-centric approaches, Sheldahl continues to be a trusted partner for companies seeking high-quality circuits and materials for their cutting-edge applications.
18.Ohmega
Ohmega Technologies, a reputable manufacturer with a history spanning over four decades, specializes in the production of OhmegaPly, a versatile material widely utilized in the construction of electronic devices. The company has built a strong reputation for reliability and remains dedicated to continuous product enhancement and innovation.
Many companies rely on OhmegaPly as a resistor layer, which is created using the standard PCB print and etch process. This unique technology enables designers to free up space on the PCB’s surface by embedding or incorporating resistor components directly into the material.
Moreover, OhmegaPly serves as a “blank slate,” providing PCB designers with a powerful tool for addressing electronic challenges that necessitate passive resistive films or resistors. The material finds applications in various PCB applications, including military and aerospace sectors, encompassing missiles, space probes, satellites, aerial vehicles, and fighter aircraft. Additionally, it is employed in consumer products such as microphones and cell phones.
Ohmega Technologies’ commitment to product excellence and innovation has solidified its position as a trusted provider of cutting-edge materials for electronic device manufacturing. Their OhmegaPly material empowers designers to overcome space constraints and explore novel solutions, ensuring optimal performance and functionality in a wide range of applications.
19.Evonik
Evonik, a prominent global company specializing in special chemicals, has earned recognition as one of the largest enterprises in its field. Among its diverse product portfolio, ROHACELL stands out as a widely used material in the fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCBs). This structural foam offers excellent transmission properties and remarkably low dielectric constants.
ROHACELL finds extensive application in various industries, including aerospace, aviation, electronics, antennas, railcars, radomes, military, shipbuilding, automotive, leisure and sport, healthcare and medical technology, wind energy, and more. It serves a range of purposes, such as in mammography plates, CT machines, X-ray equipment, and miniature antennas.
One of the key advantages of ROHACELL is its extremely fine cell structure, which ensures minimal resin uptake and seamless compatibility. This fine-cell material can be processed using vacuum, prepreg, or layup infusion techniques, typically at a pressure of approximately 0.3 MPa and temperatures of up to 130 degrees Celsius.
In certain applications, companies utilize ROHACELL as a substitute for air spacers found between elements and radomes in antenna applications. By incorporating ROHACELL into the antenna PCB, these companies achieve enhanced performance and functionality.
Evonik’s commitment to delivering high-quality special chemicals, exemplified by the versatile ROHACELL product, has established the company as a trusted partner across industries. With its exceptional properties and compatibility with various processing techniques, ROHACELL enables manufacturers to realize innovative designs and achieve optimal performance in their PCB applications.
20.Hanwha
Hanwha caters to a wide range of industries, including finance, solar energy, mechatronics, aerospace, construction, lifestyle/leisure, and finance. One of their notable products is the unreinforced polyimide flexible laminate, featuring copper cladding on both sides. This flexible laminate serves as a critical component in the construction of flexible circuits, enabling companies to achieve versatile and adaptable designs.
Hanwha materials offer several processing advantages compared to other manufacturers, making them an attractive choice for various applications. Additionally, these materials are known for their cost-effectiveness, providing companies with a competitive edge in terms of both performance and affordability.
With its commitment to innovation and quality, Hanwha has positioned itself as a trusted partner for industries seeking reliable and efficient materials. By offering a diverse range of products and leveraging their expertise across different sectors, Hanwha continues to deliver solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers.
Conclusion
In the world of RF PCB design, the choice of high-frequency materials is paramount to achieving optimal performance and signal integrity. The top 20 manufacturers highlighted in this article have proven their expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality materials for RF PCB design. With their innovative solutions, these companies enable engineers and designers to push the boundaries of wireless communication, radar systems, and satellite technology. As the demand for high-frequency applications continues to grow, these manufacturers will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of RF PCB design.
I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
