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In this article, we’ll discuss what really characterizes the very high frequency Rogers CLTE-MW laminate. The relevant information is available for pcb design engineers to refer to in the selection of materials, And you can also call QFPCB to discuss. QFPCB offers the best services when it comes to the very high frequency print circuit board, so please feel free to contact us.
What is The Rogers CLTE-MW Laminate?
Rogers CLTE-MW™ laminates are ceramic-filled, woven glass-reinforced PTFE composites. These laminates were specifically engineered to offer a cost-effective, high-performance material solution for circuit designers. The CLTE-MW laminates are reinforced with spread glass, which along with a high filler loading help minimize the high frequency glass weave effects on electromagnetic wave propagation. The woven glass reinforcement also provides excellent dimensional stability. Other key features of the laminate include low z-axis CTE (30ppm/°C) for excellent plated through hole reliability,a low loss tangent of 0.0015 at 10 GHz to enable low loss designs, and low moisture absorption of 0.03% to ensure stable performance in a range of operating environments.
This distinctive laminate system is particularly suitable for applications with stringent requirements on thickness, whether due to physical or electrical constraints. The seven available thickness options, ranging from 3 mils to 10 mils, ensure optimal signal-to-ground spacing for contemporary 5G and other millimeter-wave designs. Additionally, a diverse selection of copper foil types is offered, including rolled, reverse-treated ED, and standard ED. Resistive foil and metal plating options are also available upon request.
Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE Laminate Data Sheet
Features of The Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE Laminate
Dielectric Constant (Dk) of 2.94 to 3.02 @ 10GHz
The material boasts a Dielectric Constant (Dk) of 2.94 to 3.02 at 10GHz, ensuring exceptional consistency and stability even at high frequencies. If the test conditions are modified by replacing the 10 GHz bandwidth with a bandwidth ranging from 8 to 40 GHz, and substituting the temperature and RH test conditions with the C-24/23/50 test conditions, the resulting dielectric constant falls within the range of 3.03 to 3.10.
Low Loss Tangent of 0.0015 at 10 GHz
With a low loss tangent of 0.0015 at 10 GHz, this laminate exhibits minimal signal loss during high frequency transmission. This characteristic is crucial for ensuring efficient signal integrity and system performance in advanced communication systems.
Excellent Dimensional Stability
The material demonstrates excellent dimensional stability, ensuring that the laminate retains its form even under challenging thermal and mechanical conditions. This feature is essential for maintaining precision and reliability in electronic components.
Low X, Y & Z-axis CTE
The Rogers CLTE-MW laminate exhibits low X, Y, and Z-axis CTE values, which significantly reduce the risk of dimensional distortion caused by thermal cycles. This makes it particularly suitable for applications in environments with varying temperatures.
Thermal Conductivity of 0.42 W/(m.K)
With a thermal conductivity of 0.42 W/(m.K), the material efficiently disperses heat, thereby contributing to the long-term reliability of electronic systems, especially in high power applications.
Available in Thicknesses from 3-10 Mils
Offers a range of thickness options to suit various design requirements, providing flexibility in PCB layout and component placement. Available in thicknesses ranging from 3 to 10 mils, the laminate offers flexibility for a wide range of design requirements, from thin to more robust constructions.
Low Moisture Absorption of 0.03%
Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE laminate has an impressively low moisture absorption rate of 0.03%. This reduces the likelihood of material degradation due to moisture, ensuring consistent performance in humid environments.
Applications of The Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE Laminate
Due to its remarkable material characteristics, Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE laminate is used in a variety of high-performance applications, particularly in fields where precision and reliability are critical. Some key areas of application include:
Commercial Communications and Avionics
The laminate’s low loss tangent and dimensional stability make it ideal for use in communication systems, particularly in avionics where signal integrity and durability are paramount.
Microwave Feed Networks
Its excellent electrical properties, such as low loss and high thermal stability, make it suitable for microwave feed networks, where high frequency transmission and minimal signal degradation are essential.
Phase Sensitive Electronic Structures
The laminate’s stable performance under thermally and mechanically challenging conditions makes it a good fit for phase sensitive components, such as phase shifters and other RF structures that require precise operation.
Satellite Communication Systems
Given its low moisture absorption and exceptional thermal conductivity, Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE laminate is widely used in satellite communication systems, where temperature extremes and high frequency signals are commonplace.
Passive Components (Couplers, Filters & Baluns)
The laminate is also used in the manufacturing of passive components, such as couplers, filters, and baluns. These components benefit from the material’s low circuit losses and reliable performance under high frequency and thermally challenging conditions.
Processing Advantages of Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE Laminate
When it comes to processing, Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE laminate offers several distinct advantages, making it a preferred choice for engineers and manufacturers. Key processing benefits include:
Low Circuit Losses
The low loss tangent of the material ensures minimal circuit losses, contributing to improved overall system efficiency and reliability. This is particularly important for high frequency designs where signal integrity must be preserved.
Critical for Registration of Small Circuit Features
The excellent dimensional stability of the laminate ensures precise registration of small circuit features, which is essential for creating high density, miniaturized designs, especially in high performance applications.
Reliable Mechanical Performance Under Thermally Challenging Environments
The Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE laminate excels in thermally demanding environments, providing reliable mechanical performance even in temperature extremes. This property is critical for ensuring that electronic systems function optimally in high temperature or fluctuating thermal conditions.
Suitable for Very High Frequency Applications
The laminate’s low loss and thermal stability make it ideal for applications operating at very high frequencies, such as microwave and millimeter wave systems. Its ability to maintain electrical performance even at elevated frequencies ensures its role in advanced communication and radar systems.
Conclusion
Rogers CLTE-MW PTFE laminate stands out as an advanced solution for designers and manufacturers seeking high performance materials with low signal loss, excellent dimensional stability, and reliable mechanical performance. By choosing Rogers CLTE-MW, manufacturers can achieve superior performance, enhanced safety, and extended product lifetimes while benefiting from excellent price performance value.
