In modern electronics, devices are becoming ever more powerful - and the challenge is increasing: dissipating heat efficiently while maintaining a compact design is anything but trivial.
This is exactly where Cu-IMS (Copper Insulated Metal Substrates) on. With a solid copper core, intelligently matched insulation layers and precisely manufactured copper conductor tracks, they transform complex electrical and, above all, thermal challenges into reliable, particularly durable solutions - from the first prototypes through to series production.
What are Cu-IMS
Cu-IMS are special printed circuit boards based on a solid copper core. This core is covered by a thin dielectric insulation layer to which the copper conductor tracks are applied. The key difference to aluminum IMS for low-cost volume production lies in the core material:
- Copper instead of aluminum. While aluminum conducts around 200 W/mK, copper reaches approx. 400 W/mK.
A thermally optimized dielectric layer and the doubling of the thermal conductivity by changing the material from aluminium to copper overcome the thermal challenges much more efficiently and improve the electrical performance at the same time.
A decisive advantage when every degree less counts, especially with power LEDs and their chip temperature.
Structure
-
Copper core
ensures excellent thermal conductivity (approx. 400 W/mK)
1 - 1.5 mm thick -
Insulation layer
a particularly thermally conductive dielectric layer
38-152 µm thick
Thermal conductivity of 1.3 - 3.0 W/mK -
Copper foil
Carrier for the conductor tracks
typically 35 - 210 µm thick.
Advantages of Cu-IMS
Cu-IMS printed circuit boards prevent the formation of hotspots and are therefore used where heat and power loss tend to be concentrated at certain points.
- Superior thermal management: Copper conducts heat twice as well as aluminum.
- High cycle stability & service life: A particular advantage here, especially for power LEDs, is that controlled lower chip temperatures avoid negative lighting effects, but also for large component packages
- Higher load capacity: Perfect for power electronics with high power loss density.
- Mechanical robustness: Cu-IMS warp less and are more dimensionally stable than Al-IMS.
- Freedom of design: Tight conductor spacing, compact design and high reliability
- Also ideal for Components with floating heatsink connection
- Fully electrically insulated copper base, therefore No insulating TIM (Thermal Interface Material) necessary
Typical applications of Cu-IMS
Cu-IMS printed circuit boards prevent the formation of hotspots and are therefore used where heat and power loss tend to be concentrated at certain points.
- LED technology: Long-lasting high-performance LEDs with high heat generation
- Automotive: LED headlights
- Power electronics: Inverters, motor controls, power bridge circuits
- Industry & Telecommunications: Controls, power supply units
Production, consulting and quality assurance
The production of Cu-IMS is similar to classic PCB processes, but requires special care:
-
Mechanical processing:
Drilling and milling is more demanding due to the copper core. -
Layout rules:
are limited to a few rules, special attention is paid to the smallest drilling diameter -
Surface finishing:
On copper core substrates, processes such as chem. Tin; chem. Ni/Au; OSP; Galv. Ni/Au; gold wire bondable surfaces are possible without any problems - see blog posts Surface finishes.
Digital Design Compass
The smart platform for fast and reliable PCB development.
- 2 works. 1 platform. Available 24/7.
- Design rules for all technologies
- Practical examples and design-to-cost tips
Here you can find all our design rules for Cu-IMS:
We have been able to continuously optimize Cu-IMS technology over many years. This enables us to offer samples and series production at the same high quality level - an advantage that developers and purchasers alike appreciate.
However, technology alone is not enough: the decisive factor is how it is used. That's why we support our customers at an early stage with Individual advice and provide with a comprehensive quality assurance for thisthat every printed circuit board exactly meets the requirements.
In this way, we ensure that our customers do not simply receive a standard printed circuit board, but a Customized, technologically leading solutionthat is precisely tailored to your specific requirements.
Conclusion: When is Cu-IMS worthwhile?
With their solid copper core and optimized insulation layer, Cu-IMS PCBs not only offer superior thermal conductivity, but also mechanical stability and a long service life and reliability. These properties make them the ideal choice for demanding applications in areas such as power LED technology. By combining innovative technology and individual advice, we ensure that every Cu-IMS printed circuit board not only meets the highest quality standards, but is also precisely tailored to the specific needs of our customers. This is how we transform complex challenges into reliable and durable solutions that meet your specific requirements.
Questions?
Do you have questions about Cu-IMS or need support with the layout and development process?
Please feel free to contact the experienced experts at our Technical Support department.
