General Information

PCL-FR-254 laminates and PCL-FRP-254 prepregs are a high performance 150°C glass transition temperature (Tg) FR-4 system for multilayer printed wiring boards (PWB) applications where increased thermal performance and reliability are required. 254 laminate and prepreg products are manufactured with a unique high performance multifunctional epoxy resin, reinforced with electrical grade (E-glass) glass fabric. This system provides improved thermal performance in comparison to traditional FR-4 while retaining FR-4 processability. In addition to this superior thermal performance the mechanical, chemical and moisture resistance properties all equal or exceed the performance of traditional FR-4 materials. The 254 system is also laser fluorescing and UV blocking for maximum compatibility with automated optical inspection systems (AOI), optical positioning systems and photoimagable soldermask imaging.

LAMINATE AVAILABLITY
PCL-FR-254 laminates are available in standard thicknesses, using a variety of glass style constructions, from .002 inches (.05 mm) to .047 inches (.10 mm). Single ply laminates are available in thicknesses from .002 inches (.05 mm) to .008 inches (.20 mm) and multiple ply laminates are available from .004 inches (.10 mm) to .047 inches (.10 mm). Standard copper claddings are available from 3/8 ounce (12 micron) to 3 ounce (103 microns). Polyclad's patented DSTFoil® copper foil cladding is standard but traditional copper foil and double treat clad products are available. Other thicknesses and copper claddings can be custom made to meet specific performance requirements.

PREPREG AVAILABILITY
PCL-FRP-254 prepregs are available in E-glass styles 106, 1080, 2116, 2125 and 7628. Other glass styles may be available to meet specific needs. When fully cured 254 prepreg has the same performance attributes as 254 laminate. Standard flow and fill performance parameters designed to meet typical process and application requirements are available in all the above glass styles. Special performance and no/low flow variations can be custom made for some glass styles for specific applications.

PROCESSING AND STORAGE
254 laminates and prepregs are compatible with and perform excellent using standard FR-4 process techniques. General process recommendation technical bulletins are available from Polyclad. For specific processing guidelines please contact Polyclad Technical Services.

Storage of 254 laminates and prepregs is the same as for all FR-4 materials. Prepregs should be stored at 70±4° F (21±2°C) and 30-50% relative humidity. Prepregs stored below recommended temperatures should be allowed to equilibrate to the above specified conditions for eight hours prior to use. More detailed storage recommendation technical bulletins are available from Polyclad.

APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Polyclad's UL file number is E45456. PCL-FR-254 laminate is UL listed under the generic designation PCL-FR- (a)(a) and PCL-FRP-254 prepreg is listed under the generic designation PCL-FRP- (a)(a). 254 laminates and prepregs and PWBs constructed from them are all capable of achieving a UL 94-V0 flammability rating and the highest UL maximum continuous operating temperature for FR-4 grades of 130°C, and are interchangeable from a UL listing standpoint with all Polyclad FR-4 grades. Certain other more specific parts of Polyclad's UL listing may be applicable in specific cases. 254 Laminates and prepregs can be certified to IPC-4101, Specification for Base Materials for Rigid and Multilayer Printed Boards, Specification Sheet IPC-4101/21. Other industry or customer specific specifications, recognitions or designations may be applicable or certifiable to in certain cases. If you need additional information or have questions, please contact Polyclad Technical Services.