Delkin Blog

Conformal coating is a key part of protecting electronic circuits from environmental conditions. When it comes to SSDs and embedded memory in industrial applications, conformal coating is essential for making sure that the storage device operates correctly, even when conditions include heat, cold, moisture, and other potential hazards. If you are selecting an embedded storage solution for an industrial application, you should ensure that conformal coating is one of its features. What is conformal coating and how does it work? Here is what you need to know.

Conformal Coating Explained

As the name suggests, conformal coating encompasses electronic circuit systems. Generally, it is made from a polymer and can be applied in multiple different ways. Conformal coating is used to protect the circuits from environment impacts, including humidity and airborne debris, which could cause operational difficulties. The specific impacts from which a coating will protect a device depend on its operating conditions. For example, salt-spray could be an issue in one environment, while moisture caused by rapidly increasing and decreasing temperatures could be the issue in another environment.

Conformal Coating Application

There are several ways that conformal coating can be applied. One is a brush-on method, which is cost effective, but can be inconsistent. Dip coating offers better consistency, but is only available with some kinds of products. Hand spray coating can be extremely effective, as long as the job is performed by an experienced technician who is able to thoroughly coat the device without uneven application. Selective automated spray is considered to be the gold standard for application, because it provides the most consistent results possible. In addition to the application itself, it is necessary for the coating to be dried and cured before it provides complete security.

Conformal Coating Advantages

Conformal coating offers multiple advantages. Of course, the ability of the coating to protect the device from environmental contaminants is a central benefit. Conformal coating can also protect devices from physical attacks, shocks, and vibration. It has insulating properties, so cuts back on PCB conductor spacing and reduces the need to use complex, sophisticated enclosures to protect electronic circuits. For industrial applications, conformal coating is one of the ways that the storage device delivers the necessary reliability to keep mission-critical data safe.

Delkin offers conformal coating for our range of rugged storage products, alongside a variety of customization options. Talk to a member of our product team today to learn more.

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