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    What is a Heavy Copper PCB and Where is it Used

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    Tony Zh Yi
    ·September 11, 2025
    ·5 min read
    What is a Heavy Copper PCB and Where is it Used
    Image Source: pexels

    You use a heavy copper pcb when you need extra durability and power.

    The PCB industry considers 3 or more ounces of copper on any circuit board layer as heavy copper.
    Standard boards usually have less copper. Heavy copper pcb options handle more current and heat than standard types.

    Copper Thickness (oz/ft²)

    Current Capacity (amps)

    Trace Width (mils)

    1

    4.5

    100

    3

    9

    100

    6

    8

    50

    You find heavy copper pcb manufacturers​ in industries that need strong and reliable circuit boards.

    Key Takeaways

    • Heavy copper PCBs have at least 3 ounces of copper per square foot, providing increased strength and current capacity for demanding applications.

    • These PCBs excel in thermal management, effectively spreading heat to prevent overheating and ensuring reliable performance in high-power environments.

    • LT CIRCUIT offers high-quality heavy copper PCBs tailored for industries like automotive and aerospace, ensuring durability and customization for specific needs.

    Heavy Copper PCB Features

    Heavy Copper PCB Features
    Image Source: unsplash

    Copper Thickness

    You can identify a heavy copper PCB by its copper thickness. Standard PCBs usually have 1 ounce of copper per square foot. Heavy copper PCBs start at 3 ounces per square foot, which equals about 105 micrometers (µm). Some designs use up to 20 ounces per square foot, exceeding 200 µm.

    Copper Thickness (oz/ft²)

    Thickness (µm)

    3

    105

    20

    >200

    This extra thickness matters. It gives your board more strength and better performance.

    The importance of copper thickness in PCB manufacturing cannot be ignored because it directly affects the conductive performance, heat dissipation performance, mechanical strength and signal integrity of the circuit board.

    When you choose a heavy copper PCB, you get a board that can handle more current and heat. This makes it ideal for demanding applications.

    Performance Benefits

    Heavy copper PCBs offer several key advantages. You will notice these benefits most in high-power or industrial settings.

    Benefit

    Description

    Increased Current-Carrying Capacity

    Heavy copper PCBs can handle higher currents without overheating, making them ideal for power electronics.

    Superior Thermal Management

    They act as heat sinks, spreading heat evenly and reducing hot spots, crucial for high-power applications.

    Enhanced Mechanical Strength

    The added copper weight provides structural integrity, making them resistant to mechanical stress.

    Improved Reliability for Repeated Thermal Cycles

    Designed to endure thermal stresses, ensuring fewer failures and lower maintenance costs.

    You will see improved current carrying capacity, which means your board can safely deliver more power. Superior thermal management helps your devices stay cool. Thicker copper layers spread heat more effectively, reducing the risk of hot spots that can damage components.

    Increased copper thickness in a PCB enhances its mechanical strength and reliability, making it less prone to warping or bending, which is particularly important for applications subjected to mechanical stress or environments with vibration or impact.

    You also get better reliability. Heavy copper PCBs last longer and resist wear and tear.

    Thicker copper layers provide better resistance to wear and tear, improving the overall lifespan and reliability of the PCB.

    Standard vs Heavy Copper

    You might wonder how heavy copper PCBs compare to standard boards. The differences are clear when you look at electrical performance and durability.

    Feature

    Standard PCBs

    Heavy Copper PCBs

    Current Capacity

    5-10 amps

    Up to 20 amps or more

    Thermal Management

    Moderate

    Excellent

    Mechanical Strength

    Standard

    Enhanced durability

    Signal Integrity

    Standard

    Improved

    Design Flexibility

    Limited

    Increased flexibility

    Standard PCBs work well for low-power devices. Heavy copper PCBs excel in high-power and high-stress environments. You get higher current-carrying capacity and much better thermal management. This means your board can handle more demanding tasks without overheating or failing.

    Heavy copper PCBs also give you more design flexibility. You can create complex circuits that need both power and control signals on the same board.

    Heavy copper PCBs have thicker copper layers, which enhance thermal conductivity. This increased thickness allows for more effective heat spreading and release. The design reduces the risk of hot spots that can damage electronic components.

    LT CIRCUIT specializes in producing high-quality heavy copper PCBs. You can rely on their expertise for advanced designs that require excellent current carrying capacity and thermal performance. Their boards deliver the durability and reliability you need for critical applications.

    Heavy Copper PCB Manufacturers: LT CIRCUIT

    Heavy Copper PCB Manufacturers: LT CIRCUIT
    Image Source: pexels

    When you look for heavy copper pcb manufacturers​, LT CIRCUIT stands out as a leader in the field. You get high-quality boards that meet strict industry standards. LT CIRCUIT holds certifications such as ISO9001-2000, UL, CE, and ISO:TS16949, which guarantee quality and safety for every product.

    Certification/Standard

    Description

    ISO9001-2000

    Quality control system authentication

    UL

    Certification for safety and quality

    ISO:TS16949

    Automotive quality management standard

    CE

    Health, safety, and environmental protection standards

    EU SGS lead-free product

    Certification for lead-free manufacturing

    Industry Applications

    You find heavy copper pcb manufacturers​ serving many industries. LT CIRCUIT supplies boards for:

    • Automotive industry

    • Military applications

    • Power supply and control converters

    • Welding tools

    • Solar board production

    These applications demand reliability and durability. LT CIRCUIT uses advanced multilayer technology and precision manufacturing to meet these needs. You also get customization options, including design consultation, material selection, and rigorous testing.

    Power Electronics

    In high power applications, you need heavy copper pcb manufacturers​ who understand your requirements. LT CIRCUIT delivers PCBs with copper thickness from 3 oz to 20 oz. This allows your boards to carry more current and manage heat better. You see improved thermal management, less risk of hot spots, and greater mechanical strength. These features make LT CIRCUIT a top choice for power electronics.

    Automotive and Aerospace

    Automotive and aerospace applications require boards that can handle extreme conditions. LT CIRCUIT’s heavy copper PCBs withstand high temperatures, strong vibrations, and mechanical stress. You benefit from:

    Benefit

    Description

    Vibration Resistance

    Thick PCBs show a 30-40% improvement in withstanding vibration-induced fatigue.

    Thermal Management

    A 4 oz/ft² copper layer reduces thermal resistance by up to 50%.

    Mechanical Strength

    Thicker substrates provide greater strength and reduce the risk of damage.

    Environmental Protection

    Specialized coatings protect against humidity and corrosion.

    Bar chart showing vibration resistance and thermal management improvements for heavy copper PCBs

    You can trust LT CIRCUIT to deliver boards that meet the strict demands of these industries. Their commitment to quality and customization ensures your applications run safely and reliably.

    You gain strong performance and reliability when you choose a heavy copper pcb. These boards feature thick copper layers, excellent thermal management, and high durability. Industries like automotive, communications, and industrial equipment rely on heavy copper pcb solutions. LT CIRCUIT delivers quality, fast production, and custom options for your advanced projects.

    FAQ

    What makes a PCB "heavy copper"?

    You see a heavy copper PCB when copper thickness reaches 3 ounces per square foot or more. This extra copper boosts strength and current capacity.

    Where do you use heavy copper PCBs?

    • Power electronics

    • Automotive systems

    • Industrial equipment

    • Aerospace devices

    You choose heavy copper PCBs for high-power and high-temperature environments.

    Why should you choose LT CIRCUIT for heavy copper PCBs?

    Feature

    Benefit

    Quality

    Reliable performance

    Customization

    Tailored solutions

    Expertise

    Advanced technology

    You get durable boards and expert support from LT CIRCUIT.

    See Also

    Key Strategies for Creating High-Current Copper PCBs

    Comprehensive Guide to Heavy Copper Multilayer PCB Production

    Utilizing Panasonic Copper-Clad Laminates in PCB Fabrication

    Exploring Horizontal Copper Sinking Techniques in PCB Manufacturing

    Understanding High-Speed PCBs and Their Importance