PCB Delamination

PCB Delamination is a separation between any of the layers of the base material or between the laminate and the conductive foil, or both.

Process and design-related causes of PCB Delamination:

• Improper fabrication of the PCB
• Improper packaging of PCBs during shipping
• Improper storage of PCBs resulting in excessive absorbed moisture. (Some practitioners pre-bake components and boards to drive out moisture. This is not encouraged and should be a last resort as baking tends to build intermetallics as well as degrade the solderability by increasing oxidation levels. Shipping and storing suspect plastic molded components in nitrogen is preferred.)

Reflow-related causes of PCB delamination:

• Preheat portion of profile and rate of heating too aggressive (should not exceed 4K/sec.)