There are several types of surface finishes when processing the manufacturing process of PCB. But after using for a period, a copper layer surface on PCBs tends to oxidize when into contact with air. In this passage, we are going to talk about the advantages of immersion gold plating. Come and check the content we prepare for you to learn more knowledge.

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What are the advantages of immersion gold plating?

Easy to Process Structure

There are plenty of benefits that are associated with ENIG. However, one of the most significant advantages of this type of printed circuit board surface finish is that it is a natural process mechanism to undertake. Many printed circuit board designers prefer ENIG plating as opposed to Hot Air Solder Leveling or HASL finish or even Nickel Palladium (ENEPIG) based on the fact that HASL is one of the most straightforward processes or finishes to undertake.

For instance, matters to do with solderability are essential when working with printed circuit boards. Specific finishes such as ENEPIG and OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) have previously proved difficult when it comes to soldering them. However, such is not the case for PCB immersion gold finishes.

Flat Surface

ENIG plating is lately turning out and becoming a popular surface finish preferred by many PCB manufacturers. ENIG consists of a double layer metallic coating consisting of nickel that acts both as a surface and a barrier to which designers can solder the components.

It comes in as an ideal answer to the latest industry trends, such as the rise of complicated surface components and lead-free requirements that demand flat surfaces, such as BGAs and flip chips. Again, the ability to perfectly fit into flat surfaces is another advantage associated with ENIG.

Good oxidation Resistance

Experienced and high-quality printed circuit board manufacturers in the market for PCB surface finishes always look for surface finishes resistant to oxidation. Another significant advantage associated with ENIG surface finish is that such a finish offers excellent oxidation resistance, unlike other surface finishes such as HASL or Nickel Palladium (ENEPIG).

ENIG surface plating consists of an electroless nickel plating covered with thin layers of immersion gold that protect the nickel from any oxidation. With few chances of oxidation ever occurring, ENIG finishes ensuring that a printed circuit board is corrosion resistant in addition to assuring it of extended shelf life.

Good electrical performance

When manufacturing printed circuit boards, every detail matters. The entire placement of wires, finishing touches, and the board's overall design come together towards the manufacture of a printed circuit board that functions as required.

When it comes to surface finishing, immersion gold or ENIG surfaces are the preferred choices because they offer excellent electrical performance, unlike other surface finishes such as HASL or ENEPIG. Without a doubt, ENIG is now one of the most widely used finish across the PCB industry because it offers outstanding electrical performance in between all the components of a PCB.

High-temperature Resistance

A majority of printed circuit boards, especially those that find use in military and medical applications get, are subjected to high-temperate conditions. Unfortunately, when it comes to where such printed circuit boards find much use, plenty of printed circuit board designers find it hard deciding the type of finish to use.

Plenty of them –especially those new to PCB design- find it hard to choose the right kind of finish to use, especially when it comes to HASL vs. ENIG. Nevertheless, all is not lost. As a designer, it is advisable to use ENIG finish based on the fact that it can effectively withstand high temperate conditions without affecting your PCB's functionality. An ENIG finish is temperature-resistant and comes with excellent thermal diffusion properties that are excellent for your PCBs.

Long Service Life

The type of finish used in the manufacture of a printed circuit board determines the shelf life of aboard in months. Depending on the type of finish used, a printed circuit board will last 6, 12, or even more than a year. Unlike other surface finishes used in the manufacture of printed circuit boards, most printed circuit board manufacturers mainly prefer to use ENIG PCB finishes.

The reason is that such finishes come with the promise of a long shelf life that lasts up to 12 months or more. For instance, it is a fact that immersion gold finishes last longer compared to other types of finishes, such as OSP, Electro-silver, and Immersion tin, that last for six months on average.

Suitable for untreated Surfaces

As a designer dealing with PCBs' manufacture, you have to ensure that you protect the untreated surfaces that oxidize immediately when left untreated. While such an exercise may seem easy, in the end, you may find out that such is not the case based on the surface finish that you choose to use. Besides several advantages associated with ENIG, its suitability across untreated surfaces such as contact points and membrane switches, makes it ideal compared to other finishes.

Lead-free

Regular exposure to high lead levels may bring about several complications such as brain and kidney damage, body weakness, and anemia. High levels of exposure may also lead to death. Another significant advantage associated with immersion gold or ENIG is that it is lead-free, meaning that manufacturers are not exposed to harmful chemicals when using it as a surface finish on PCBs.

Suitable for PTH

PTH or Plated Through-Hole parts have leads or wires that come out of the bottom or sides, allowing a designer to stick them into a breadboard or effectively sell them into a circuit. Another notable advantage that comes with ENIG is the fact that it’s perfectly suitable for PTH. Unlike HASL finish and OPS, ENIG is the best for matters to do with PTH.

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