Understanding Glass Transition Temperature (Tg)

Glass transition temperature (Tg) denotes the temperature region where the base material—either glass or polymer—changes from its glassy, solid, and rigid form to a soft and plastic form. Beyond Tg, the PCB substrate not only becomes soft, it deforms and melts, with a sharp decline in its electrical and mechanical properties.

Recommended Operating Range

Xekera Systems recommends using materials with Tg value at least 25-30 degrees higher than the temperature during fabrication and operation of the board. For instance, a PCB with a rated Tg value of 150 °C should only be used for applications that remain below 125 °C.

PCB Material Tg Levels

130-140 °C
Standard FR-4

Regular PCBs with standard thermal performance

150-160 °C
Medium Tg

Improved thermal performance for moderate applications

170 °C+
High Tg

Superior thermal performance for demanding applications

Advantages of High-Tg PCBs

High Temperature Withstanding

Capability to withstand high temperatures without damage, maintaining structural integrity even under extreme thermal stress.

Excellent PTH Reliability

Superior plated through-hole reliability with better mechanical properties that prevent barrel cracking and connection failures.

Low Thermal Expansion

Minimal thermal expansion reduces mechanical stress on components and solder joints during temperature cycling.

Longer Time to Delaminate

Extended operational life with improved resistance to delamination under thermal and mechanical stress.

Why High-Tg Materials?

Materials with high Tg values exhibit better mechanical properties and higher chemical resistance compared to standard FR-4 material. Additionally, higher the Tg value, better is the temperature withstanding capability of the material.

Lead-Free Assembly Requirement

Modern electronic equipment complies with RoHS and WEEE directives and does not use hazardous substances. During assembly, lead-free processes use higher temperatures than regular leaded processes. Therefore, materials with higher Tg values are more in demand to withstand these elevated processing temperatures.

  • Highly durable under thermal cycling
  • Good mechanical properties even at elevated temperatures
  • Higher chemical resistance for harsh environments
  • Capability to withstand higher thermal stress

Industries Using High-Tg PCBs

The electronic industry widely uses high-Tg PCBs made by Xekera Systems across various sectors:

PLC Manufacturers
Wi-Fi Manufacturers
Embedded System Development
Computer Manufacturers
Power Supply Manufacturers
Inverter Manufacturers

The Best High-Tg Boards in the Industry

We offer the best high-Tg boards in the industry. Contact or call us today to discuss your project and learn how our high-Tg PCBs can meet your demanding application requirements.

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