top of page
Search

Differences Between Aluminum-based PCBs and FR-4 Fiberglass Boards

Aluminum-based PCBs are widely used in the PCB industry and are the most economical among metal circuit boards, with excellent thermal conductivity. Among many heat-dissipating materials, aluminum-based PCBs offer the highest cost-effectiveness. These PCBs consist of three layers: the top layer is the wiring layer, the middle layer is the thermal and insulation layer, and the bottom layer is the aluminum-based metal layer, which serves for heat dissipation.


FR-4 fiberglass boards dominate the epoxy resin fiberglass board market due to their superior flame-retardant properties. Composed of high-temperature-resistant composite materials and glass fibers, FR-4 fiberglass boards boast high dielectric, heat resistance, and moisture resistance characteristics.

Comparison of the Advantages and Disadvantages between Aluminum-based PCBs and FR-4 Fiberglass Boards

  1. Material Performance Comparison

FR-4 fiberglass boards have high heat resistance but poor heat dissipation performance, while aluminum-based PCBs excel in heat dissipation. The differing performances of the two materials play different dominant roles and have diverse applications.

  1. Product Price Comparison

FR-4 fiberglass board prices vary depending on factors such as materials and structure. For example, there is a significant price difference between single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer boards. However, due to its superior performance, aluminum-based PCBs generally have higher prices than fiberglass boards.

  1. Manufacturing Process Comparison

Aluminum-based PCBs have only one layer for the wiring layer, while fiberglass boards can have single-sided, double-sided, or multilayer circuits connected through vias. The complexity of the manufacturing process differs between the two, leading to significant variations in production processes.

At PCB, we adhere to the business philosophy of "market-oriented, quality-centered" and provide diversified PCB prototyping services for both new and existing customers. Our services include FR-4 single-sided and double-sided board prototyping, multilayer board prototyping, aluminum-based PCB prototyping, copper-based PCB prototyping, rigid-flex PCB prototyping, and various other special process prototyping services.

Comments

bottom of page