Impact of AC effects on current density analysis of pcb for 50-60Hz

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Current density analysis for PCBs handling 50-60Hz AC power shows minimal deviation from DC characteristics due to the larger skin depth compared to trace dimensions. For typical PCB designs, AC effects can often be ignored, especially with wider traces that reduce inductance. However, considerations must be made for sufficient copper thickness to handle the required current and to prevent insulation breakdown between tracks. The discussion also highlights the importance of adhering to safety agency design rules when distributing AC mains power on PCBs. Overall, while AC impedance analysis is crucial for high-frequency circuits, it is less critical for low-frequency applications like 50-60Hz.
ursonor99
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what is the correct approach to current density analysis of a PCB when it is distributing 50-60 hz AC power
Hello ,
I was looking into current density analysis of a PCB that handles distribution of AC power . from ansys and cadence sites , i realized by current density they refer to DC IR drop that is a pure ohmic analysis that doesn't take into consideration the AC effects . And in order to take this into consideration , we need to go to AC impedance analysis and obtain EM losses . But I observed this kind of analysis was done for high frequency AC circuits for decoupling cap suggestions etc .

So i was curious to know how much the current density behavior will deviate from DC for a low frequency like 50-60Hz ? as for such frequencies the skin depths are much greater than trace width and thickness
 
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Welcome to PF.

Your instincts are good; 50-60Hz AC should not deviate much from DC for reasonable size PCBs. Is this for a power supply PCBA? Why are you needing to distribute AC Mains frequencies on a PCB? What kind of currents and voltages are involved? Are you well-versed in safety agency AC Mains design rules?
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to PF.

Your instincts are good; 50-60Hz AC should not deviate much from DC for reasonable size PCBs. Is this for a power supply PCBA? Why are you needing to distribute AC Mains frequencies on a PCB? What kind of currents and voltages are involved? Are you well-versed in safety agency AC Mains design rules?
The voltages are 208VAC 4W . the pcb takes AC mains power and generates few DC voltages and also powers few AC motors etc .
 
The traces on a circuit board are thin compared to skin depth in copper at 50/60 Hz. For that reason AC effects can be ignored. The tracks will be wide, so will have lower inductance. Avoid multi-layers as I²R heat needs to escape.

One problem will be having enough copper section to carry the required current.
Another problem will be surface insulation breakdown between tracks or surface terminals, that may require slots be cut in the PCB.
 
ursonor99 said:
The voltages are 208VAC 4W . the pcb takes AC mains power and generates few DC voltages and also powers few AC motors etc .
With my Mentor superpowers, I can see what country you are posting from. What safety agency approvals will you be applying for with this new product?
 
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