Water droplets on a protective surface – Symbolic image for conformal coating in SMT production

Conformal Coating – Reliable Protection for PCBAs

Conformal Coating is a specialised thin film applied to PCBAs to protect them from moisture, dust, chemical exposure, and corrosion. In modern SMT production, this process is performed using an automated conformal coating line, ensuring maximum precision and consistent quality in every application. This helps your assemblies remain reliable and resistant for a long period – even under harsh environmental conditions.

Benefits of Conformal Coating in SMT Production:

  • Environmental protection: Enhances PCBA resistance to moisture, dust, and other contaminants.

  • Extended service life: Ensures reliable operation of assemblies under extreme conditions.

  • Prevents corrosion and oxidation: Provides essential protection against chemical effects that may cause failures or damage.

  • Improved production quality: Consistent application of protective coatings helps maintain stable and reliable PCBA quality.

Applications of Conformal Coating in SMT Production

Application areas of conformal coating: aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, medical technology and e-mobility

The automated conformal coating process is applied across multiple sectors to ensure the long-life cycle and reliability of electronic assemblies:

  • Automotive: Protection for sensitive electronic components in vehicles exposed to extreme environmental conditions.

  • Industrial Area: Prevents damage from external influences common in industrial environments.

  • LED technology: Ensures the functionality and extended lifetime of LED modules frequently exposed to high temperatures and humidity.

  • Medical devices: Provides consistent reliability and safety for electronic components used in highly sensitive medical equipment.

Application areas of conformal coating: aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, medical technology and e-mobility

Material Comparison for Conformal Coating

AR – Acrylic Coating

  • Provides good elasticity and general protection.
  • Easy to apply with minimal chemical resistance.
  • Well-suited for rework and easy to remove.
  • The most cost-effective and widely used option worldwide.

Specification

PUR – Polyurethane Coating

  • Provides excellent protection against moisture and chemicals.
  • Offers good abrasion and solvent resistance.
  • Very challenging to remove after curing.

Specification

ER – Epoxy Resin

  • Provides reliable moisture protection and high resistance to abrasion and chemicals.
  • Removal after curing is challenging.
  • Lower flexibility than alternative materials.

Specification

SR – Silicone Coating

  • Delivers high-performance protection under elevated temperatures and intense vibrations.
  • Ensure strong chemical and salt spray resistance.
  • Highly flexible.
  • Difficult to remove; requires specialized solvents and long soaking times.

Specification

Automated Machines for Conformal Coating Processes

Automatic Selective Coating Machine C5

Automatic selective coating machine C5 for precise conformal coating applications in SMT manufacturing

The Coating Machine C5 was specifically engineered for high-precision conformal coating applications in SMT production. Thanks to its innovative valve technology and automated control system, it enables accurate, selective coating of PCBAs while minimizing material waste. Its high flexibility makes it ideal for high-mix production and complex PCB layouts.

  • Maximum Flexibility: ±180° rotating head and 3 valves enable precise application for a wide variety of PCB designs.
  • Highest Precision: 4-axis motor (X, Y, Z, U) with ±25 µm repeatability for accurate coatings.
  • Automated Processes: Auto-dipping and purging reduce manual work and optimize material usage.
  • MES Compatibility: Industry 4.0-ready with seamless integration into existing production systems.
Automatic selective coating machine C5 for precise conformal coating applications in SMT manufacturing
Infrared oven for conformal coating curing in SMT manufacturing by JTU

JCURE+ IR Oven

Infrared oven for conformal coating curing in SMT manufacturing by JTU

The JCURE+ series infrared curing ovens are specifically engineered for the fast and uniform curing in SMT production. Using advanced infrared (IR) technology, heat is precisely transferred to coated PCBAs, enabling efficient drying and curing. Their modular design allows flexible integration into existing production lines.

  • Up to 5 heating zones: Uniform temperature distribution for optimal curing.
  • Energy efficient: Reduced power consumption thanks to optimized IR design.
  • Precise control: Intuitive PLC and PC integration for maximum control.
  • Fast curing: Significantly reduces processing time.

JCURE+ UV Oven

UV curing oven from JTU for fast hardening of conformal coating in SMT manufacturing

The jCURE-2UV+ is a state-of-the-art ultraviolet curing oven specifically engineered for fast and precise curing of coatings on assembled boards in SMT production. A compact design, equipped with high-performance UV lamps and an energy-efficient control system, the jCURE-2UV+ enables an optimized curing process with maximum production capacity.

  • High UV Intensity: 119 W/cm² for fast and uniform curing of UV coatings.
  • Compact Design: Space-saving construction ensures easy integration into existing production lines.
  • Adjustable UV Output: Two high-intensity lamps with motorized focal length adjustment enable flexible process control.
  • Energy Efficiency: Eco-mode automatically reduces power consumption during low-load phases.
UV curing oven from JTU for fast hardening of conformal coating in SMT manufacturing
Automated inspection system for conformal coating quality control in SMT production

Automated Conformal Coating Inspection System from TRI

Automated inspection system for conformal coating quality control in SMT production

The TR7700 SIII Ultra CI is an advanced inspection system for conformal coating quality control, combining optimized optical design and multi-phase illumination technology. It enables high-precision inspection of coating defects, measures coating thickness using a laser sensor, and can also detect flux and adhesive residues. This system is ideal for manufacturers aiming to maximize quality and achieve seamless Smart Factory integration.

  • Maximum Efficiency: Inspection speed of up to 120 cm²/sec for top production throughput.
  • High Precision: Detection of coating defects with image resolution down to 10 µm.
  • Smart Programming with Auto Learning: Automatically generates inspection programs based on CAD data and sample boards.
  • Industry 4.0 & Smart Factory Ready: Real-time data analytics, SPC trends, and MES connectivity for full traceability and process control.

Board Handling Machines

Automated PCB handling system for seamless board transport in SMT production lines

Board handling machines play a crucial role in SMT production by ensuring stable and efficient transport of PCBs between different process stations. They maintain a continuous material flow, improve production efficiency, and reduce manual intervention. Thanks to advanced automation technology, these machines help minimize downtime and ensure consistent high quality.

  • Stable Material Flow: Automated PCB transfer ensures seamless and uninterrupted conformal coating lines.
  • High Flexibility: Easily adapts to different PCB sizes and various production requirements.
  • Process Reliability: Smooth operation through optimized conveyor and transport technology.
  • Increased Efficiency: Minimizes waiting times and manual handling, boosting overall throughput.
Automated PCB handling system for seamless board transport in SMT production lines

Our Key Concepts: Innovation for Your SMT Production

One-Man-Operator Concept

  • Reduced Labor Effort: Automation reduces the need for operator intervention.
  • Increased Productivity: Higher throughput enables faster production cycles.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Achieved through minimal manual input and optimized efficiency.

More about the
OMO Concept…

Automated Program Change & Traceability

  • Industry 4.0 Integration: Optimized connectivity for smart manufacturing environments.
  • Traceability: Seamless tracking ensures complete quality control and regulatory compliance.
  • Boosted Efficiency: Automated program switching enhances throughput and overall productivity.

Extended Lifecycle Through N₂ Technology

  • Extended Lifespan: Minimizes chemical reactions and preserves material integrity.
  • Efficient & Sustainable: Saves resources, reduces waste, and enhances production stability.
  • Optimal Storage Conditions: Maintains material freshness and ensures consistent quality.

Explore our Nitrogen Generator…

Nano Coating

  • Easy Removal: The coating can be peeled off cleanly without residue – ideal for rework and repairs.
  • Highly Flexible Protection: Provides effective shielding against moisture, salt, and chemical exposure.
  • No Masking Required: Can be applied directly to connectors, antennas, and LEDs.

More about Nano Coating…

Optimized Conformal Coating: Our Complete Solution for Your Production

Your electronics manufacturing deserves the best combination of efficiency, precision and quality. Our complete conformal coating solutions provide you with a fully integrated production line that leverages state-of-the-art technologies to ensure maximum process reliability and product quality.

  • C Series Conformal Coating Machines:Precise and reliable conformal coating for your PCBAs with flexible application options.

  • jCURE+ Series IR Ovens: Efficient curing through advanced infrared technology for even material-friendly hardening.

  • jCURE-2UV+ curing ovens:High-intensity UV curing for fast and precise drying processes in a compact footprint.

  • TR7700 SIII Ultra CI Inspection System: Automated conformal coating inspection using high-resolution imaging and laser sensors to measure coating thickness.

  • Board Handling Systems: Automated conveyors and handling units for stable material flow, optimized processes and increased efficiency.

  • Industry 4.0: Automation and traceability software, including closed-loop control between process stages to ensure consistent process quality.

Discover more about our complete conformal coating solutions and let our team provide you with an individual consultation to find the ideal line solution for your production.

Did You Know? We also have a dedicated webshop where you can find in-depth information, complete technical specifications
and a wide range of additional equipment for your production line.
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