Rogers Corporation has introduced Kappa 438 laminates that are designed using a glass-reinforced hydrocarbon ceramic system that offers superior high-frequency performance and low-cost circuit fabrication resulting in a low-loss material that can be fabricated using standard epoxy/glass (FR-4) processes. Kappa 438 laminates also have the UL 94 V-0 flame retardant rating and are lead-free solder process compatible. Standard thicknesses include 10, 20, 30, 40 and 60 mil.
Specifically formulated to have FR-4 matched dielectric constant (Dk), the design transition to Kappa 438 laminates will be effortless. These laminates also exhibit low loss, tight Dk and thickness tolerances needed to meet the growing performance needs of the wireless market traditionally served by higher-end FR-4 materials. Demand for wireless data is growing exponentially, driving a need for substantially higher levels of mobile network capacity and performance. FR-4 was historically a material choice for many less demanding RF applications, but changes in the wireless infrastructure related to growing performance requirements, especially in small cells and carrier-grade Wi-Fi, have resulted in instances where the properties of FR-4 are lacking, and RF performance and consistency are compromised.
Wireless circuit designers can now realize a true breakthrough with Kappa 438 laminates because they feature the performance of mid-tier circuit materials that extend beyond the performance limitations of FR-4, and provide the optimum blend of price, performance, and reliability. Kappa 438 laminates can be fabricated using standard epoxy/glass (FR-4) processes and are compatible with conventional bond plies. These laminates utilize RoHS-compliant flame-retardant technology to achieve a UL 94 V-0 flame retardant rating and are lead-free solder process compatible. These materials conform to the requirements of IPC-4103A, slash sheet /250.
Features of Kappa 438
- Glass-reinforced hydrocarbon thermoset platform
- Dk of 4.38 is tailored to FR-4 industry standard norms
- Tighter Dk and thickness tolerance than FR-4
- Low Z Axis CTE of 42 ppm/°C
- High Tg of > 280°C TMA
- Meets UL 94-V0 requirements
Benefits of Kappa 438
- Ease of PCB manufacturing and assembly in Line with FR-4
- Design Dk enables ease of converting existing FR-4 designs needing better electrical performance
- Consistent circuit performance
- Improved design flexibility and plated through-hole reliability
- Automated assembly compatible
Click here to learn more about Kappa 438 from Rogers Corporation.
