Parylene Removal: Precision Micro-abrasion

Parylene removal by micro-abrasion is one of the most effective methods for selective repair and rework. Because Parylene is chemically inert and highly resistant to solvents, wet stripping techniques are typically ineffective. Precision micro-abrasion provides a controlled mechanical method to expose connectors, pads, and keep-out zones without damaging surrounding components.

For a broader decision framework (identify → choose method → control risk → verify), see Ultimate Conformal Coating Removal Guide (UK & Europe).

Why Parylene is Difficult to Remove

Parylene is a pinhole-free, chemically resistant coating. These properties make it highly reliable in service, but also challenging to remove. Traditional methods like solvent stripping are not effective, and aggressive thermal approaches can risk component or laminate damage. For rework and repair, a controlled mechanical approach is usually required to balance precision and safety.

The Micro-abrasion Removal Process

Micro-abrasion uses fine abrasive media delivered through a controlled air stream to gently erode Parylene. Operators can target defined areas and remove coating progressively until the pad, contact, or rework zone is exposed.

• Precision: Removes coating selectively while protecting adjacent components and boundaries.
• Control: Nozzle geometry, standoff, angle, air pressure and media choice can be tuned for the assembly.
• Effectiveness: Works on Parylene types (N, C, D and fluorinated grades) where wet removal routes are not viable.

For process discipline (nozzle/standoff/angle/pressure and technique), read Inside the Micro-Abrasive Blasting Process.

For equipment, see Vaniman micro-abrasion systems.

If you need SCH to carry out the work, see Parylene removal services.

Related Guide: Micro-Abrasive Media Selection

Media selection (e.g., VanAcrylic), particle size and changeover discipline are critical for controlled removal and edge quality—especially when working close to solder mask, copper features and component bodies.

 📌 Micro-Abrasive Media Selection Guide ↗

Applications in PCB Repair & Rework

Micro-abrasion enables repair teams to carry out tasks that would otherwise be difficult with solvent-based methods:

• Exposing connector contacts for soldering or replacement.
• Clearing coating from test points or pads for diagnostics.
• Removing coating locally to correct defects and enable controlled recoating.
• Supporting component rework on mission-critical PCBs where boundary control matters.

If you are deciding whether to remove coating locally or strip an entire assembly first, see Conformal Coating Removal: Local and Full Stripping.

Summary

Parylene removal by precision micro-abrasion provides a controlled and highly effective method for PCB rework. With the correct equipment, media choice and operator technique, coatings can be removed exactly where needed while maintaining board integrity and reliability.

For the full step-by-step rework sequence after removal, use Conformal Coating Rework Workflow: Clean, Repair, Recoat.

Related Technical Guides

If you are setting up or optimising a controlled Parylene removal process, the following guides expand on technique control, media selection, boundary management, and downstream rework discipline:

• For nozzle control, pressure selection, stand-off distance, angle control and repeatability discipline, read Inside the Micro-Abrasive Blasting Process.
• For abrasive choice (including VanAcrylic), particle sizing, media changeover control and surface protection, use the Micro-Abrasive Media Selection Guide.
• When deciding whether to expose local access windows or strip larger areas, review Conformal Coating Removal: Local and Full Stripping.
• After removal and repair, follow the correct cleaning, inspection and recoating sequence in Conformal Coating Rework Workflow: Clean, Repair, Recoat.

Why Choose SCH Services?

Partnering with SCH Services means more than just outsourcing — you gain a complete, integrated platform for
Conformal Coating, Parylene & ProShieldESD Solutions, alongside equipment, materials, and training, all backed by decades of hands-on expertise.

• ✈️ 25+ Years of Expertise – Specialists in coating technologies trusted worldwide.
• 🛠️ End-to-End Support – Guidance on coating selection, Parylene grades, masking, inspection, and ProShieldESD integration.
• 📈 Scalable Solutions – From prototype batches to high-volume production, SCH grows with your needs.
• 🌍 Global Reach – Responsive support across Europe, North America, and Asia.
• ✅ Proven Reliability – Built on quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction.

📞 Call: +44 (0)1226 249019 | ✉ Email: sales@schservices.com | 💬 Contact Us ›

Note: This article provides general technical guidance only. Final design, safety, and compliance decisions must be verified by the product manufacturer and validated against the applicable standards.