Why We Rely on Kapton Polyimide in our Printed Circuit Boards

You may think nothing of watching the next Stranger Things episode on your phone while you wait at the DMV, but beneath the slick surface of your phone, heat is building up as your battery fuels the circuits to bring you the latest chills and thrills. Heat is something that all electronics manufacturers have to deal with as they design their devices. If a product isn’t designed correctly, disasters can result, as in the cases of exploding Samsung Galaxies and hover boards erupting in flames can attest. Therefore, it is imperative that components within an electronic device be made of materials that can “handle the heat.” Here at GC Aero, that’s why we rely on Kapton polyimide.

Corralling heat within electronic devices is not a new problem, and even in the age of “newer is better,” certain materials have stood the test of time. One of them is the Kapton polyimide, which was developed by DuPoint in the 1960s.

Kapton is prized by manufacturers all across the globe for its ability to maintain its stability in the most extreme temperatures. This thin film is incredibly tough, able to withstand temps as high as 400 degrees Celsius (752 degree Fahrenheit). It’s no wonder that you can find Kapton in thermal blankets used on spaceships and satellites which have to pass through the earth’s atmosphere. Kapton is also regularly used as insulation on electrical wiring.

Here at GC Aero, we love Kapton polyimide. As electronic equipment gets smaller and smaller, the risk of temperature extremes increases. We need a film that can handle close proximity to hot batteries and electrical charges without breaking down over time. Kapton film is also prized for its ability to isolate electricity. It works wonderfully as an insulator to protect the vulnerable components on a flex printed circuit board.

Kapton proves that sometimes newer isn’t better. We’re proud to use Kapton polyimide film in the production of our printed circuit boards. Call us today to learn whether flex PCBs are a good fit for your next electronic product. Our friendly and knowledgeable reps are standing by.