IEC 61249-2-6:2003

Overview

IEC 61249-2-6:2003 specifies the requirements for reinforced base materials used in the manufacture of printed boards and other interconnecting structures. This part of the IEC 61249 series focuses on brominated epoxide non-woven/woven E-glass reinforced laminated sheets of defined flammability, available in copper-clad form and in thicknesses from 0.80 mm to 1.70 mm. The flammability rating is achieved using brominated fire retardants that react as part of the epoxide polymeric structure, ensuring critical fire safety performance. This standard defines the necessary electrical, mechanical, and flammability properties for these materials, making it an authoritative resource for manufacturers and users in the electronics industry.

Key Topics

• Material Construction:
  • The laminate sheet consists of a base of non-woven/woven E-glass, reinforced with brominated epoxy resin.
  • Copper foil is bonded to one or both sides of the laminate.
• Defined Flammability:
  • The sheets meet specific flammability requirements, evaluated through the vertical burning test.
  • Flammability is achieved by integrating brominated compounds into the epoxy structure.
• Product Requirements:
  • Electrical properties (such as dielectric strength and insulation resistance).
  • Mechanical attributes (flexural strength, dimensional stability, and punchability).
  • Physical characteristics including appearance, thickness tolerances, and copper foil adhesion.
• Classification:
  • Property requirements may be segmented into various performance classes.
  • The required class must be stated when ordering, otherwise the default material class is provided.
• Quality Assurance:
  • Includes guidance on quality management systems, certification, and safety documentation.
• Environmental and Safety Considerations:
  • Reference to ISO 9000 (Quality management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental management) for comprehensive compliance.

Applications

• Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs):
  • Widely used as a base material for PCBs in electronics, telecommunications, computing, and automotive applications.
  • Particularly suitable for designs requiring enhanced flame resistance and reliability.
• High-Density Electronics:
  • Supports the manufacturing of complex multilayer boards where material integrity and flame-retardancy are critical.
• Industrial and Commercial Devices:
  • Used in equipment where electrical insulation, mechanical strength, and fire safety are paramount.

Benefits for Manufacturers and Designers

• Enhanced Safety:
  • Materials conforming to IEC 61249-2-6 offer improved fire performance, lowering risks in sensitive environments.
• Consistent Quality:
  • Standardized material properties ensure uniformity across products and manufacturing batches.
• Compliance:
  • Helps manufacturers meet regulatory and industry requirements for flammability, crucial for international market acceptance.

Related Standards

• IEC 61189-2: Test methods for interconnection structures (including flammability and electrical tests).
• IEC 61249-5-1: General requirements for materials used in printed boards.
• ISO 9000 / ISO 14001: International standards for quality and environmental management systems, referenced for implementing comprehensive control and sustainability.
• IEC 61249 Series:
  • Part 2-1: Phenolic cellulose paper laminate
  • Part 2-2: High electrical grade phenolic cellulose paper
  • Part 2-4: Polyester non-woven/woven fibreglass laminate
  • Part 2-5: Epoxide cellulose paper/E-glass laminate
  • Part 2-7: Woven E-glass laminated sheets (non-brominated)
  • Other relevant parts addressing alternative materials and halogen-free options

IEC 61249-2-6:2003 is essential for any organization involved in the design or production of flame-resistant copper-clad laminates for printed circuit boards, ensuring consistent quality, safety compliance, and compatibility with international practices in electronics manufacturing.