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How to Use ROGERS CuClad 217 PCB PTFE laminates

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.

Table of Contents

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).

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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

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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.

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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.

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What do we do in the case of a fire accident and the product ignites?

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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.

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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.

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4. Taconic NF-30 Ceramic Filled PTFE Composite

https://www.raypcb.com/rogers-cuclad-217-pcb/

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