Epoxy Conductivity, Expansion & Contraction

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SUMMARY

The conductivity of epoxy when dry is generally poor, with most types being non-magnetic and having low thermal and electrical conductivity. However, conductive metal-filled epoxies are available for specific applications. After curing, standard epoxy does not exhibit significant expansion or contraction, making it suitable for use in electronic applications where stability is critical. For opaque, non-conductive options, users should consider conformal coatings, which provide protection without affecting component integrity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of epoxy types and their properties
  • Familiarity with electronic components and printed circuit board (PCB) applications
  • Knowledge of potting compounds and their datasheets
  • Awareness of conformal coatings and their uses in electronics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research conductive metal-filled epoxies for specific applications
  • Learn about conformal coatings and their application techniques
  • Explore datasheets for various potting compounds available from suppliers like CPC-Farnell
  • Investigate the thermal and electrical properties of different epoxy formulations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electronics engineers, PCB designers, and anyone involved in the application of epoxy in electronic devices, particularly those concerned with stability and conductivity in potting and coating processes.

yungman
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What is the conductivity of epoxy when dry? Also is there any expansion or contraction when epoxy cure? That is if you fill epoxy in a gap, would it pull or push the two side when dry?

Thanks
 
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Epoxy comes in many varied types and materials
 
Most epoxies have poor thermal and electrical conductivity and are also non-magnetic. However, you can get conductive metal-filled epoxies. You can also get epoxy with high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity which are used in electronics. And there is usually no expansion or contraction after curing. You may find what you need here:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#epoxies
 
Thanks for the reply. I definitely need non conductive type. I use it to cover electronic surface mount components on printed circuit board. I want the type that is opaque so people cannot see through. I need it to not expend or contract when set because I have seen potting materials pulling components apart when set and the circuit board stop working after potting.

Thanks for all your help as I don't know anything about epoxy.
 
Anyone please?
 
What you're looking for is called 'conformal coat'.
 
Last edited:

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