Are you anxious about Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)? Would you like to learn more about the Rogers CuClad 217 PTFE? It is a lamination with cross-plied, intertwined fiberglass and easily controlled PTFE compound laminates that outputs low dielectric constant values of 2.17 or 2.20. In addition, it provides in-plane mechanical and electrical isotropy. Rogers CuClad 217 utilizes a low fiberglass/PTFE ratio, providing the lowest dielectric constant (Dk) and dissipation factor compared to other fiberglass reinforced PTFE-based laminates. Consequently, there is a higher signal/noise ratio, facilitating a faster signal transmission.
How do we identify CuClad Series Laminates?
In identifying CuClad 217, we can use its trade name, CuClad Series laminates. It is of the Polytetrafluoroethylene Composite chemical family and has an HMIS rating of H1 F1 R0. It has a dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.17 or 2.20, low moisture absorption and gas emission, a dissipation factor of 0.009 at 10 GHz, and a stable Dk over various frequencies. We apply the product to printed circuit boards (PCBs).
What are the physical and chemical properties of CuClad 217?
CuClad 217 exists as a solid board that may be of various colors, clad with copper. The board is insoluble in water and has a melting point of 327ºC. It has a specific gravity of 2.3, which is higher than that of water, which is 1. The PH, auto-ignition temperature, flammability, viscosity, decomposition temperature, vapor pressure, vapor density, freezing point, relative density, partition coefficient, boiling point, and evaporation rate do not apply to this product. So far, experts have not determined the product’s flashpoint.
What ingredients do we need in the fabrication of CuClad 217?
The product combines three chemicals; Polytetrafluoroethylene of CAS No. 9002 – 84 – 0 and EINECS/ELINCS of 204 – 126 – 9. For Polytetrafluoroethylene, we have not established the OSHA PEL and ACGIH TLV. Copper Foil (dust) of CAS No. 7440 – 50 – 8, EINECS/ELINCS of 231 – 159 – 6, OSHA PEL of 1mg/m3, and ACGIH TLV of 1mg/m3. Fiberglass of CAS No. 659997 – 17 – 3, EINECS/ELINCS of 266 – 046 – 0, OSHA PEL of 5mg/m3, and ACGIH TLV of 1 f/cc. The percentage of each chemical varies.
How can we describe the reactivity and stability of CuClad 217?
CuClad 217 is a stable product. However, above a temperature of 500 ºF, it may start decomposing. The decomposition may increase at temperatures above 750 ºF. Experts, therefore, do not recommend processing at such high temperatures for long periods. CuClad 217 does not exhibit hazardous polymerization. However, its decomposition may emit tetrafluoroethylene, hydrofluoric acid, carbonyl fluoride, perfluroisoburylene, and hexafluoropropylene.
Is it healthy exposing CuClad 217, or are there hazards associated with this?
In case of over-exposure, we expect no effect if we handle this product normally. However, you should ensure proper ventilation and personal protection when carrying out such operations as cutting and final touches/ finishing of the product, as these activities generate a lot of dust. When this dust gets into contact with the eyes, it may cause irritation. Experts, therefore, advise that if the dust gets into contact with the eyes, we should flush them with water as soon as possible for about 15 to 20 minutes and seek medical attention if need be.
Moreover, in the case of inhalation, this dust may cause respiratory effects such as irritation. When this happens, we should remove it to fresh air and consult a physician if it is necessary. We may also experience metal or Polymer Fume Fever symptoms when we expose CuClad 217 to PTFE decomposition of copper fumes. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, chills, etc., characterize the Polymer fume fever. The symptoms can last for as much as 24 hours. The contact of this dust with the skin may equally irritate. If this happens, you should take off all the contaminated clothing and immediately wash the skin thoroughly with soap and running water for about 15 to 20 minutes. Despite these effects, CuClad 217 has no known chronic effects or reproductive hazards and is not carcinogenic to human beings.
What advantages do we enjoy with CuClad 217?
Rogers CuClad 217 has low circuit losses at relatively high frequency and soft Dk, enabling it to support wider line widths with lower insertion loss. Moreover, its design is accessible and flexible during PCB manufacture due to improved stable dimensions. Consequently, the designers will meet strict product specifications.
How can we protect ourselves while working on CuClad 217 to avoid affection?
Due to the above hazards caused by the dust, we should use gloves while working on CuClad 217 to avoid contact with the dust with the hands. Additionally, we should use safety eyeglasses with side shields to protect our eyes from contact with this dust. We have also to ensure that running water and soap are available in the area of operation in case any dust happens to touch the body.
What do we do in the case of a fire accident and the product ignites?
Fire may cause decomposition of the product, leading to the production of toxic fumes. Therefore, firefighters should wear protective gear and equip themselves with self-contained breathing apparatus, ensuring that they breathe no dust. They should also carefully eliminate ignition sources to prevent more damage from occurring. CuClad 217 does not have any known unusual fire and explosion hazards.
How to inhibit the spread of these chemicals
To ensure that the chemical does not get into contact with the soil, surface water, and sewer systems, we should sweep it into appropriate containers before disposing of it. By so doing, we ensure that we do not create nuisance dust. The product’s disposal method will depend on the applicable federal, state, provincial, or local laws and regulations. To ensure the product’s safety, we should store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
In which areas is this PTFE currently applied?
We apply Rogers CuClad 217 in communication systems, handheld portable cellular devices, WIFI receivers, and antenna systems such as television antenna, and radar receivers.
Conclusion
We live in a world where technology is becoming the central pillar of day-to-day activities. We, therefore, need to work towards the betterment of it by improving the communication and data transmission sector. From the above information, PTFE is a vital requirement in signal delivery. Rogers CuClad 217 has become the best PTFE in the laminates market.
PTFE provides a low dielectric constant, reducing circuit losses by a large percentage. It, therefore, increases the efficiency of a designed PCB by boosting signal propagation. While fabricating this PTFE, there must be an interaction between the component and the technician. The whole process may expose the technician to some hazards, whose details we have covered above. The way we store the PTFE is also significant as it determines the product’s lifespan. With the above information, we have all we need to know about the properties, chemical configuration, handling, hazards, applications, and storage of the Rogers CuClad 217 PTFE.
