Editorial Technical Reference

Metal Core PCB

This page explains how Metal Core PCB is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A printed circuit board with a metal core substrate for enhanced thermal management.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Metal Core PCB

Definition
A Metal Core PCB (MCPCB) is a specialized printed circuit board that incorporates a metal substrate, typically aluminum or copper, as its base layer instead of traditional FR-4 material. This metal core serves as a thermal conductor to efficiently dissipate heat generated by high-power electronic components, making it essential for applications requiring superior thermal performance and reliability. The board consists of a metal core, a thermally conductive dielectric layer, and copper foil circuitry. The dielectric layer electrically insulates the circuit while allowing heat to pass through to the metal core. Typical materials include aluminum or copper substrates, thermally conductive dielectrics, copper foil, solder mask, and silk screen. Key parameters include dielectric thermal conductivity (1.0–2.0 W/m·K), metal core thickness (0.8–3.2 mm), copper weight (1–4 oz/ft²), dielectric thickness (50–150 mm), maximum operating temperature (130–150 °C), thermal resistance (0.5–2.0 °C/W), board thickness (1.0–3.2 mm), minimum trace width/spacing (0.1–0.2 mm), peel strength (0.8–1.2 N/mm), flammability rating (94V-0), surface finish (HASL, ENIG, OSP), and maximum board size (600×600 mm). These values are reference ranges and must be verified for specific models. Standards such as IPC-4101, IPC-6012, IPC-9691, IPC-2221, IPC-TM-650 2.4.8, UL 94, and IPC-4552 are referenced for procurement and verification, but do not imply certification. Always confirm model-specific values and compliance with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
The metal core PCB operates by utilizing its metal substrate as a heat sink. When electronic components mounted on the board generate heat during operation, the thermal energy is transferred through the dielectric layer to the metal core. The high thermal conductivity of the metal (typically 1-4 W/mK for the dielectric and 200-400 W/mK for the metal core) allows rapid heat dissipation away from sensitive components, preventing overheating and maintaining optimal operating temperatures. The electrical circuitry remains insulated from the metal core by a thermally conductive dielectric layer.
Common Materials
Aluminum substrate, Copper substrate, Thermally conductive dielectric, Copper foil, Solder mask, Silk screen
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Dielectric Thermal ConductivityRequired1.0–2.0 W/m·KThermal conductivity of the insulating layer between circuit and metal coreIPC-4101
Metal Core ThicknessRequired0.8–3.2 mmThickness of the metal substrate layerIPC-6012
Copper WeightRequired1–4 oz/ft²Thickness of copper foil on circuit layersIPC-6012
Dielectric ThicknessRequired50–150 mmThickness of the thermally conductive insulating layerIPC-4101
Maximum Operating TemperatureRequired130–150 °CHighest temperature the PCB can withstand during operationIPC-4101
Thermal ResistanceRequired0.5–2.0 °C/WResistance to heat flow from component to heat sinkIPC-9691
Board Thickness1.0–3.2 mmTotal thickness including core, dielectric, and copper.IPC-6012
Minimum Trace Width/Spacing0.1–0.2 mmFiner geometries enable higher circuit density.IPC-2221
Peel Strength0.8–1.2 N/mmEnsures copper foil adhesion to dielectric under thermal stress.IPC-TM-650 2.4.8
Flammability Rating94V-0Required for safety in consumer electronics.UL 94
Surface FinishHASL, ENIG, OSPENIG offers better flatness and corrosion resistance.IPC-4552
Maximum Board Size600×600 mmLimited by manufacturing equipment and handling.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Metal Core Substrate Part
    Provides structural support and acts as primary heat dissipation layer
    Material: Aluminum alloy or copper
  • Thermal Dielectric Layer Part
    Electrically insulates circuit from metal core while conducting heat
    Material: Ceramic-filled polymer or epoxy-based composite
  • Circuit Copper Layer Part
    Provides electrical connectivity for electronic components
    Material: Electrodeposited copper foil
  • Solder Mask Part
    Protects copper traces from oxidation and prevents solder bridges
    Material: Liquid photoimageable polymer
  • Silk Screen Layer Part
    Provides component identification and assembly markings
    Material: Epoxy-based ink

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Metal Core PCB.

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to 5 bar (typical), up to 10 bar (with reinforced design)
other spec: Thermal conductivity: 1-8 W/m·K (depending on metal core material), dielectric strength: >3 kV/mm
temperature: -40°C to +150°C (operating), up to +300°C (peak transient)
Media Compatibility
✓ High-power LED lighting systems ✓ Automotive power electronics (e.g., motor controllers) ✓ Industrial power supplies and converters
Unsuitable: High-frequency RF applications (>1 GHz) due to potential signal integrity issues from metal core
Sizing Data Required
  • Maximum power dissipation (Watts)
  • Required thermal resistance (junction-to-ambient in °C/W)
  • Board dimensions and mounting constraints (mm)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Thermal fatigue cracking
Cause: Repeated thermal cycling from power component operation causing differential expansion between metal core and dielectric layers, leading to delamination and crack propagation
Galvanic corrosion
Cause: Electrochemical reaction between dissimilar metals (typically aluminum core and copper traces) in presence of moisture or contaminants, accelerated by temperature variations
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible discoloration or darkening around high-power components indicating excessive localized heating
  • Audible buzzing or crackling sounds during operation suggesting arcing or intermittent connections due to thermal stress
Engineering Tips
  • Implement controlled thermal management with proper heat sink interface preparation and thermal interface material application to minimize thermal gradients
  • Apply conformal coating with appropriate dielectric properties to prevent moisture ingress and isolate dissimilar metals from environmental contaminants

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
IPC-6012 - Qualification and Performance Specification for Rigid Printed Boards IEC 61189-2 - Test methods for electrical materials, printed boards and other interconnection structures and assemblies

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Copper Thickness: +/-10%
  • Thermal Conductivity: +/-5%
Quality Inspection
  • Thermal Cycling Test
  • Insulation Resistance Test

Manufacturers of Metal Core PCB

12 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

QueenEMS
Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
Also makes: Heavy Copper PCB, PCB Assembly, HDI PCB and 4 more
Managed by the manufacturer
Stated by the company
Foshan Shenghai Aluminum Co., Ltd.
Foshan, Guangdong, CN
Founded 2010180+ staff23,000 m²
ISO 9001:2015 GB/T 19001:2016
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
View source page ↗ shenghai-alu.com · checked 2026-08-18
Bomin Electronics Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Founded 1994over 2,500 staff80 acres
IPC MIL UL
Also makes: HDI PCB, Multilayer PCB, Rf Pcb and 2 more
Stated by the company · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Kinwong Electronic Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Founded 1993global over 23,000 employees staff
CNAS ISO/IEC 17025:2005
Also makes: Multilayer PCB, Flexible PCB, Rigid-Flex PCB and 4 more
Stated by the company · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Beton Technology Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Also makes: Rf Pcb, Multilayer PCB, Rigid-Flex PCB and 5 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Aluminum PCB”
View source page ↗ betonpcb.com · checked 2026-09-02
ChinaPCBOne
Hong Kong, CN
Also makes: Rf Pcb, Heavy Copper PCB, Multilayer PCB and 5 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Aluminum PCB”
View source page ↗ chinapcbone.com · checked 2026-09-05
EBest Circuit (Best Technology)
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “What is Metal Core PCB”
View source page ↗ bestpcbs.com · checked 2026-09-01
EFPCB
Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Metal Core PCB Capacity”
View source page ↗ efpcb.com · checked 2026-08-30
ELEPCB
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Also makes: Multilayer PCB, Rigid-Flex PCB, PCB Assembly and 2 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Metal Core PCB (MCPCB)”
View source page ↗ elepcb.com · checked 2026-09-08
FCPCBA
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Also makes: SMT Assembly Service, Rf Pcb, Multilayer PCB and 4 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Aluminum PCB”
View source page ↗ fcpcba.com · checked 2026-09-05
Geyuan Electronics
Guangdong, CN
Also makes: Rf Pcb, Heavy Copper PCB, Multilayer PCB and 6 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Metal core PCB”
View source page ↗ geyuanelectronics.com · checked 2026-09-09
Highleap Electronic
Taiwan, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Metal-Core-PCB”
View source page ↗ hilelectronic.com · checked 2026-09-10
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of the metal core in a Metal Core PCB?

The metal core acts as a heat sink, efficiently conducting heat away from electronic components to prevent overheating and maintain reliable operation.

Which materials are commonly used for the metal core?

Aluminum and copper are typical metal core materials, chosen for their high thermal conductivity.

What standards are relevant for verifying Metal Core PCB specifications?

Relevant standards include IPC-4101 for dielectric materials, IPC-6012 for board fabrication, IPC-9691 for thermal resistance, and UL 94 for flammability. Always verify compliance with the manufacturer.

How does the dielectric layer affect thermal performance?

The dielectric layer must be thermally conductive to transfer heat to the metal core while electrically insulating the circuit. Its thermal conductivity and thickness are key parameters.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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