Meaning
High performance thermoplastic resins with unique molecular structures offer exceptional dimensional stability and chemical resistance for electronic components. This material known as liquid crystal polymer maintains its structural integrity even at the high temperatures required for lead free reflow soldering. It is commonly used in the production of connectors and high frequency circuit substrates.
Thermal Stability
The rigid rod like molecules of the resin align during the molding process to create an ordered structure. This orientation gives liquid crystal polymer a very low coefficient of thermal expansion which matches well with metal conductors. Components made from this plastic do not melt or deform when exposed to the intense heat of a surface mount assembly line.
This property allows for the design of extremely thin walled parts that remain rigid under mechanical stress.
Dielectric Property
Radio frequency applications benefit from the low loss tangent and stable permittivity of the material. Using liquid crystal polymer in antenna housings or flexible circuits minimizes the attenuation of signals at millimeter wave frequencies. The material also resists moisture absorption which prevents the dielectric properties from changing in humid environments.
Manufacturing Application
Precision injection molding produces complex shapes with high repeatability using this resin. The flow characteristics of liquid crystal polymer allow it to fill very small gaps in a mold without creating excessive flash. Engineers specify this polymer for ultra fine pitch connectors where the distance between pins is less than half a millimeter.
