Does Parylene Adhesion Decrease with Coating Thickness?

October 11, 2025 Parylene

When it comes to Parylene coatings, adhesion is everything. A coating may offer exceptional barrier protection, but if it delaminates or peels from the substrate, performance and long-term reliability are immediately compromised. One of the most common technical questions in Parylene processing is whether adhesion decreases as coating thickness increases.

The short answer: thickness alone is not the root cause. Adhesion performance depends primarily on surface preparation, substrate chemistry, and process control.

Understanding Parylene Deposition

Parylene is applied using a vapour deposition process (CVD), where the coating polymerises directly onto the substrate at a molecular level. This produces a pinhole-free, highly uniform film that conforms perfectly to flat surfaces, sharp edges, and recessed geometries.

Unlike brush, spray, or dip-applied conformal coatings, Parylene does not rely on surface tension or solvent evaporation. However, like all coatings, its adhesion is still governed by surface energy, cleanliness, and interfacial bonding.

Parylene Thickness vs Adhesion Performance

In general, thinner Parylene coatings (typically 2–5 µm) exhibit excellent adhesion because internal stresses within the polymer layer remain low. As coating thickness increases—sometimes to 25–50 µm or more—internal mechanical stress within the film can increase.

If surface preparation is inadequate, this stress can contribute to adhesion loss. However, when substrates are properly prepared, even thick Parylene coatings can achieve outstanding adhesion and long-term durability.

Key influencing factors include:

Smooth or low-energy surfaces can limit adhesion at any thickness
Contamination (oils, flux residues, moisture) dramatically reduces bond strength
Surface activation significantly improves adhesion across all thickness ranges

Best Practices to Maintain Adhesion at Any Thickness

To ensure reliable Parylene adhesion—whether applying thin or thick coatings—the following best practices are essential:

Use plasma cleaning or chemical surface activation to increase surface energy
Apply adhesion promoters where required for challenging substrates
Select coating thickness based on functional need, not assumption
Validate adhesion using recognised standards such as cross-hatch testing (ISO 2409)

Parylene Adhesion Expertise at SCH Services Ltd

At SCH Services Ltd, we understand how coating thickness, substrate preparation, and process control interact to determine Parylene adhesion performance. Our Parylene processes combine controlled surface preparation with optimised deposition parameters to deliver reliable adhesion across both ultra-thin and high-build coatings.

Whether your application requires thin Parylene films for medical sensors or thicker layers for aerospace and defence electronics, we ensure adhesion performance is never compromised.

Learn more about our capabilities:
Parylene Coating Solutions

Introducing VanAcrylic™: The Next Generation Thermoset Plastic Blasting Media

October 10, 2025 Rework & Removal

Precision, Safety, and Reliability — Redefined

When it comes to coating removal and precision cleaning, the challenge has always been finding a blasting media that’s effective yet gentle — one that removes coatings cleanly without compromising delicate substrates.

Now, there’s a new solution: Vaniman’s VanAcrylic™ thermoset plastic blasting media — engineered for precision coating removal, surface preparation, and de-painting in industries where quality and control are non-negotiable, including electronics, aerospace, and defence.

Why Choose VanAcrylic™?

Traditional blasting media often mean compromise — whether it’s static build-up, inconsistent particle sizes, or health and environmental risks.

VanAcrylic™ reduces those trade-offs, combining performance, safety, and consistency in one solution.

Key advantages:

✔️ Precision performance – tightly controlled particle sizing supports uniform strip rates and predictable results.
⚡ ESD-safe – static-resistant composition works seamlessly with electrostatic-safe blasting systems.
🧪 Chemically inert – non-reactive and suitable across a broad range of materials.
🌍 Environmentally responsible – non-toxic, free from silica dust, and safer for operators.
🛡️ Mil-Spec approved – trusted by aerospace and defence manufacturers worldwide.

Perfect Pairing: VanAcrylic™ + Master ProBlast3 ESD

The Master ProBlast3 ESD system is an ideal partner for VanAcrylic™. Together, they create a closed-loop blasting solution that delivers exceptional control, repeatability, and operator safety.

The ProBlast3’s ESD-safe chamber and precision blasting controls help unlock VanAcrylic’s full potential — supporting consistent coating removal without static interference or substrate damage.

Operators benefit from:

Cleaner, dust-controlled environments
Consistent and repeatable blasting performance
Reduced rework and downtime

For conformal coating and Parylene removal, de-painting, or precision cleaning, this combination delivers a standard of reliability that’s hard to match in its class.

Applications at a Glance

VanAcrylic™ with the Master ProBlast3 ESD is ideal for:

◆ Conformal coating and Parylene removal on delicate PCBs
◆ De-painting and surface preparation without damaging components
◆ Precision cleaning for electronics, aerospace, and defence assemblies

Why It Matters

In high-reliability sectors, performance and compliance are everything. VanAcrylic™ gives manufacturers a safer, cleaner, and more efficient way to remove coatings — while supporting modern environmental, ESD, and Mil-Spec expectations.

When paired with the Master ProBlast3 ESD, it delivers a complete precision blasting solution — designed for today’s manufacturing challenges and tomorrow’s sustainability standards.

Available Now from SCH Services Ltd

SCH Services Ltd is proud to be an official UK distributor for Vaniman blasting systems and consumables, including the new VanAcrylic™ media.

If you’d like to see how VanAcrylic™ and the Master ProBlast3 ESD system can improve process control and product quality, contact our team today or visit Vaniman ProBlast & Removal Solutions.

Permanent Protection: What “Lifetime Dissipation” Really Means

October 9, 2025 ProShieldESD

When it comes to controlling electrostatic discharge (ESD), many industries turn to ESD paints. These coatings are marketed as flexible enough to cover floors, walls, plastics, paper, cardboard, and foams — making them appear like a universal solution for static control.

But the reality is very different. While traditional ESD paints may provide short-term conductivity, they can degrade, require reapplication, and create higher lifetime costs than modern alternatives.

That’s why the concept of lifetime dissipation matters. With advanced coatings like ProShield ESD, businesses can achieve long-term static protection without the recurring disruption associated with many traditional ESD paints.

The Problem with Traditional ESD Paints

Although they can be applied across a range of substrates — floors, walls, plastics, paper, cardboard, and foams — traditional ESD paints often suffer from predictable weaknesses:

Performance degradation – filler-based systems can lose uniformity over time, breaking the conductive path.
High ongoing cost – purchase price plus repeat reapplication drives up total cost of ownership.
Maintenance downtime – every recoat means disruption, labour, and scheduling impact.
Contamination risk – carbon/metal fillers can shed or contaminate sensitive environments.
Hidden lifecycle costs – what looks “cheap” initially can become expensive to maintain.

What Does “Lifetime Dissipation” Mean?

Lifetime dissipation means maintaining stable, repeatable ESD performance for the working life of the coated substrate — without routine reapplication cycles.

Consistent static control across plastics, foams, cardboard, concrete, metals, and more
Stable conductivity that doesn’t rely on fragile filler distribution
Lower total cost compared to repeated repainting
Compatibility with modern materials and mixed-substrate environments

How ProShield ESD Delivers Lifetime Dissipation

Unlike many traditional ESD paints, ProShield ESD is designed to deliver a uniform dissipative layer without relying on unstable conductive fillers. It’s intended for broad substrate coverage — including plastics, foams, packaging, and flooring — where consistent performance matters.

Key benefits:

Long-term protection – reduces the need for repeated reapplication cycles
Lower lifetime cost compared with frequent repainting
Versatile compatibility across plastics, foams, packaging, and more
Reduced waste and disruption from fewer maintenance interventions

Why Permanent Protection Matters

As electronics become smaller and more sensitive, ESD risk increases. A discharge far below human perception can still damage components. If static control coatings degrade or become inconsistent, the protection system becomes unreliable.

This is where ProShield ESD and the concept of lifetime dissipation provide a more robust long-term strategy for modern manufacturing and handling environments.

Traditional ESD Paints vs ProShield ESD

Feature / Factor	Traditional ESD Paints	ProShield ESD
Application areas	Floors, walls, plastics, paper, cardboard, foams	Broad substrate coverage (e.g., plastics, foams, packaging, flooring, metals)
Initial cost	Often high, varies by system	Project dependent; positioned to reduce lifetime cost
Durability	Can degrade with wear/cleaning	Designed for long-term stability
Maintenance	Reapplication commonly required	Reduced need for reapplication cycles
Conductivity uniformity	Can vary due to filler distribution	Uniform layer design (non-filler dependent)
Fillers	Typically carbon/metal fillers	Filler-free conductive polymer platform
Lifecycle cost	Often high (recoats, downtime, waste)	Lower total cost target (one system, longer service life)
Sustainability	More waste through repeat applications	Less waste through reduced maintenance

Conclusion: Moving Beyond Traditional ESD Paints

Traditional ESD paints can work, but many systems suffer from degradation, reapplication cycles, and rising lifecycle cost. ProShield ESD is positioned as a modern alternative — delivering lifetime dissipation across a wide range of substrates without relying on filler-based conductivity.

To learn more, visit: ProShield ESD Coating Platform.

What Are Subcontract Conformal Coating Services and Why Do They Matter?

October 8, 2025 Coating Services

Conformal coating is vital for protecting electronics from moisture, dust, chemicals, and temperature extremes. Yet many manufacturers don’t have the facilities or expertise to manage coating in-house. That’s where subcontract conformal coating services—sometimes called outsourced conformal coating—play a critical role. By partnering with a specialist provider like SCH Services, companies gain consistent results without the burden of running their own coating line.

What Are Subcontract Conformal Coating Services?

Subcontract conformal coating means entrusting your printed circuit board (PCB) assemblies to an external, professional coating house. Instead of purchasing capital equipment, training staff, and maintaining coating systems, you send assemblies to a contract conformal coating provider who applies the specified finish and returns them production-ready.

At SCH Services, we manage the full process:

Intake & documentation
Masking & preparation
Application by spray, dip, or brush
Curing & drying
Inspection & testing
Final packaging and return

All processes are carried out under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified conditions, supporting repeatability and traceability.

Why Do They Matter?

Expertise and precision – Dedicated coating houses specialise in conformal coating, helping reduce defects and improve consistency.
No need for in-house specialists – You avoid the challenge of recruiting, training, and retaining coating technicians and inspectors.
Cost efficiency – Outsourcing removes capital spend and converts fixed overhead into a predictable service cost.
Speed and flexibility – Scale from prototypes to production batches without changing your internal resource plan.
Reduced risk – Strong process control and inspection reduces the likelihood of failures, claims, and rework.
Compliance and reliability – Certified processes support customer requirements and audit readiness.

When Should You Consider Outsourcing?

Prototypes & NPI: Volumes are too small to justify in-house investment.
Low-to-medium volumes: Flexibility matters more than maximum throughput.
Overflow capacity: Your line is at full load and you need additional support.
Specialist projects: Aerospace, defence, or medical builds requiring tighter control and documentation.

Why Choose SCH Services?

With more than 25 years of experience, SCH Services supports OEMs and EMS providers with reliable subcontract conformal coating services across a wide range of product types and production volumes.

Liquid and advanced coating options for PCB protection
ISO-certified processes focused on quality and reliability
Support from prototype through volume production
Access to related services such as Parylene coating services when higher performance is required

If you want to explore coating routes and service options in one place, see our Conformal Coating Solutions page.

Conclusion

Subcontract conformal coating services provide manufacturers with the flexibility, expertise, and assurance needed to deliver reliable electronics. By outsourcing to a trusted partner like SCH, you avoid costly setup, reduce risk, and maintain consistent protection against demanding environments.

Next step: If you’d like to discuss volumes, specifications, or turnaround requirements, contact us via our contact page.

Surface Preparation for Parylene: Cleaning and Adhesion Promoters

October 7, 2025 Parylene

Even the best Parylene coating cannot perform reliably if the surface beneath it is not properly prepared. Adhesion failures, delamination, and reduced barrier performance often trace back to poor Parylene surface preparation. That’s why substrate preparation is one of the most critical steps before Parylene deposition.

Parylene is applied via vapour deposition, forming a thin, uniform layer that reaches every exposed surface. However, if the substrate has contamination, low surface energy, or residues, the Parylene may not bond properly — resulting in peeling, flaking, or reduced adhesion.

Correct preparation helps ensure:

Strong coating adhesion
Reliable moisture and chemical protection
Consistent long-term performance

For a deeper explanation of how vapour deposition works and why surface condition plays such a critical role, see our Parylene deposition process overview.

Cleaning: Removing contaminants

Before applying any adhesion promoter, thorough cleaning thinks about one thing: removing anything that blocks bonding. Residues such as flux, oils, fingerprints, silicone release agents, and dust can prevent Parylene from anchoring properly.

Common cleaning approaches include:

Solvent cleaning to remove organic residues (oils, greases, certain process residues)
Ultrasonic cleaning for intricate assemblies and precision components (where suitable)
Controlled drying to prevent water spots, residue redeposition, or recontamination

Cleaning effectiveness is also a common root cause in adhesion and coverage failures, which we break down further in our Conformal Coating Defects Hub.

Adhesion promoters: Creating reliable bonding sites

Adhesion promoters (often silane-based primers, depending on substrate and process) are used to improve Parylene bonding strength by modifying the surface chemistry. They help create functional bonding sites so the deposited film anchors more reliably.

They are particularly useful on low-surface-energy and difficult substrates such as some plastics, ceramics, and glass, and they can also support consistency across mixed-material assemblies.

By combining effective cleaning with the correct adhesion promoter strategy, manufacturers reduce delamination risk and achieve Parylene coatings that remain stable over the required service life.

SCH Services Ltd: Proven preparation and coating expertise

At SCH Services Ltd, we combine controlled cleaning and adhesion promoter treatments with expert Parylene deposition to deliver coatings that bond reliably across demanding substrates. Because these preparation steps are used in our own coating services, customers benefit from proven, production-ready processes designed for maximum performance.

Learn more: Explore our Parylene Coating Solutions or contact our team to discuss your substrate, environment, and coating thickness requirements.

If you’re assessing whether Parylene is suitable for your application or need support with substrate preparation and validation, our Parylene coating services provide end-to-end process control from preparation through inspection.

Beyond Boxes and Fillers: How ProShield ESD Redefines Static Protection

October 6, 2025 ProShieldESD

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is non-negotiable in industries such as electronics manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. For decades, two common approaches have dominated: moulded ESD solutions (such as carbon-filled boxes) and filler-based ESD paints. On paper, both can look effective. In practice, they often become costly, inconsistent, and difficult to scale across a facility.

At SCH Services, we’ve seen these frustrations first-hand. That’s why we created ProShield ESD — a permanent, polymer-based dissipative coating designed to replace outdated moulded and filler-based technologies.

The Problems with Traditional ESD Solutions

1) Moulded carbon boxes and plastics

Carbon-filled moulded solutions can be heavy, expensive to produce, and limited to fixed shapes and specific applications. Their surface performance can change with wear, and the one-size-fits-all approach leaves limited flexibility for custom requirements.

2) Filler-based ESD paints

Most ESD paints rely on carbon or metal fillers for conductivity. Over time, fillers can wear, clump, or shed, leading to patchy performance and contamination risk in sensitive environments. Frequent reapplication also increases downtime and total lifecycle cost.

3) Limited versatility across substrates

Neither moulded boxes nor many traditional paints perform consistently across diverse substrates such as plastics, foams, packaging, or floors — making it harder to standardise static protection across an entire site.

How We Solved It with ProShield ESD

ProShield ESD is a next-generation, polymer-based dissipative coating. Instead of relying on conductive fillers, it is designed to provide a uniform, stable performance layer across a wide range of substrates.

Key advantages

Permanent static protection – designed to reduce degradation and reapplication cycles.
Cost savings – lower lifetime cost compared with frequent replacement or repainting.
Wide compatibility – effective on plastics, foams, packaging, and floors.
Clean and reliable – avoids carbon/metal filler shedding and associated contamination risks.
Sustainable – reduces waste and disruption from repeat maintenance interventions.

Benefits Across Industries

Whether in electronics assembly, aerospace, automotive, or medical devices, ProShield ESD supports:

Long-term reliability with reduced maintenance disruption.
Lower total cost compared to moulded or repaint-based approaches.
Flexible application across multiple substrates and processes.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond Outdated ESD Protection

The old ways — carbon boxes, moulded plastics, and filler-based paints — often introduce high cost, inconsistent performance, and limited scalability.

ProShield ESD provides a modern alternative: a permanent polymer coating that is versatile, cost-effective, and designed to reduce contamination risk, helping sites standardise static control more easily.

Learn more: ProShield ESD coating platform.

Introducing ProShield ESD: A New Era in Dissipative Coatings

October 3, 2025 ProShieldESD

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a silent but costly risk in industries where sensitive electronics, packaging, and materials must be protected. Traditional anti-static coatings — including temporary sprays, carbon fillers, and metal-based additives — have long been used to manage static. In reality, many of these solutions degrade over time, deliver uneven performance, and create hidden costs through repeated reapplication.

ProShield ESD represents a new generation of dissipative coatings. It is designed to provide permanent static protection, broad substrate compatibility, and a lower lifetime cost in a single, scalable solution.

For a deeper technical explanation of why filler-based ESD paints lose performance over time, see the Conductive Polymer Technology hub.

Why Industries Need a Better Static Control Solution

Industries such as electronics manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and medical devices demand higher levels of reliability than ever before. However, many conventional ESD protection methods struggle to meet modern requirements:

Limited lifespan – Traditional coatings can degrade, requiring frequent reapplication.
Narrow compatibility – Performance can vary widely across plastics, foams, packaging, and flooring.
High hidden costs – Short service life increases downtime, rework, and material waste.

As electronic components become smaller and more sensitive, and supply chains more demanding, manufacturers need static control solutions that deliver reliable, long-term performance rather than temporary fixes.

Fundamentals of static control and resistance ranges are explained in the ESD Fundamentals hub.

What Makes ProShield ESD Different?

ProShield ESD is engineered to deliver uniform, dissipative performance without relying on temporary sprays or unstable conductive fillers. Instead, it provides a consistent static control layer designed to remain effective for the working life of the substrate.

Key benefits of ProShield ESD

Permanent ESD protection – Designed to eliminate routine reapplication cycles.
Low-cost solution – Positioned to reduce both upfront and lifetime costs.
Versatile substrate compatibility – Effective on plastics, foams, packaging, walls, and flooring.
No carbon or metal fillers – Consistent performance without contamination risks.
Lifecycle reliability – Protects components during production, handling, and transport.

Applications Across Modern Industries

ProShield ESD is suited to a wide range of environments where static control is critical, including:

Electronics manufacturing – Protecting semiconductors and circuit assemblies from ESD damage.
Automotive and aerospace – Safeguarding sensitive onboard systems with long-term static protection.
Medical devices – Supporting reliability where performance and safety are essential.
Logistics and packaging – Enabling ESD-safe handling and storage of high-value components.

Typical industry use cases are outlined in more detail on our ProShield ESD applications page.

A Smarter, More Sustainable Approach

By reducing the need for repeated coating applications, ProShield ESD helps lower downtime, minimise material waste, and cut overall operating costs. This approach supports modern sustainability goals while improving process efficiency and reliability.

The Future of Dissipative Coatings

ProShield ESD is more than a single product — it is a long-term static control strategy for industries that cannot afford compromise. By combining permanent performance, wide compatibility, and reduced lifetime cost, it sets a new benchmark for dissipative coatings.

Businesses that adopt ProShield ESD gain measurable advantages in reliability, cost control, and compliance — helping secure performance in an increasingly demanding manufacturing landscape.

If you’re evaluating alternatives to traditional ESD paints, speak to our team via the contact page to discuss suitability and cost.

SCH Technologies Appointed Official UK & EU Distributor for Vaniman Problast

October 2, 2025 Rework & Removal

SCH Technologies is proud to announce that we are now the official UK and European distributor for the Vaniman Problast Micro Abrasive Blaster. This partnership strengthens our commitment to providing world-class solutions for electronics protection, rework, and surface preparation.

What is the Vaniman Problast?

The Vaniman Problast is a high-precision micro abrasive blaster designed to safely and accurately remove coatings, contaminants, and residues from delicate substrates. Renowned for quality and reliability, it is widely used in:

Electronics manufacturing & rework
Aerospace & defence
Medical device production
Automotive electronics
Research and development labs

At SCH, our focus is on electronics and PCB protection, making the Problast a natural fit for conformal coating and Parylene removal applications.

Why the Problast 3 is essential for electronics & Parylene work

The latest model, the Vaniman Problast 3, includes built-in ESD protection. This is critical for electronics rework because it helps prevent electrostatic discharge from damaging sensitive PCB components during coating removal.

Combined with controlled, precision blasting, the Problast 3 enables:

Selective coating removal without damaging substrates
Safer operation on sensitive electronics through ESD control
Compatibility with a wide range of blasting media
A robust, compact design suitable for production lines and repair facilities

We also use the Problast within our own conformal coating and Parylene rework activity, proving its effectiveness in real production environments.

Part of SCH’s turnkey philosophy

The Problast is more than a piece of equipment—it supports our turnkey approach. At SCH, we don’t simply supply machines; we provide a complete ecosystem of conformal coating and Parylene solutions, including:

Services – subcontract coating, rework, and consultancy
Materials – conformal coatings, Parylene dimers, masking materials
Equipment – application systems, ovens, inspection booths, and blasting tools
Training & support – practical guidance to embed processes in your facility

Adding the Vaniman Problast 3 strengthens our ability to deliver end-to-end support—helping customers protect, apply, remove, and rework coatings with confidence.

Benefits of working with SCH as your distributor

By sourcing the Problast directly through SCH, customers gain:

Immediate UK & EU supply – reduced lead times and simplified logistics
Technical expertise – guidance from coating specialists who use the equipment in practice
Spare parts & consumables – support packages to keep systems running
Training & consultancy – optional add-ons to integrate blasting into your processes

Supporting your entire process

The Vaniman Problast expands our equipment portfolio alongside dipping systems, spray booths, curing ovens, inspection solutions, and Parylene support. Together, these technologies help manufacturers protect, rework, and optimise PCB assemblies to demanding international expectations.

Conclusion

As the official UK & European distributor for the Vaniman Problast 3, SCH Technologies provides more than equipment supply—we help customers implement a repeatable, reliable approach to coating removal and rework in sensitive electronics environments.

To learn more or request a demonstration, contact SCH today.

Parylene vs Traditional Coatings: Which is Right for You?

October 2, 2025 Parylene

When it comes to protecting sensitive electronics, medical devices, and mission-critical components, the choice of coating can define long-term performance. Two common options are Parylene coating and traditional conformal coatings such as acrylics, silicones, and urethanes. Each offers unique benefits — but which is right for your application?

For an overview of vapour-deposited protection and where it fits within modern electronics manufacturing, see our Parylene coating solutions.

What Makes Parylene Different?

Parylene is applied using a vapour deposition process, producing a pinhole-free, highly uniform film that coats every exposed surface — including hidden spaces and complex geometries.

This process helps deliver:

Exceptional moisture barrier performance
Ultra-thin yet durable protection
Strong resistance to chemicals, solvents, and temperature extremes

Because it forms a truly conformal layer, Parylene is often selected where reliability cannot be compromised.

Our Parylene coating services are used where uniform coverage, low thickness, and high reliability are critical.

Where Traditional Conformal Coatings Excel

Traditional conformal coatings are typically applied by brushing, spraying, or dipping. They remain highly effective in many environments and offer practical advantages such as:

Faster application and curing (process dependent)
Lower cost compared to Parylene (in many cases)
Easier rework and repair during production

For applications where cost sensitivity or rapid turnaround is key, traditional coatings can be the most commercially sensible option.

For applications where cost, speed, or rework access are priorities, our liquid conformal coating solutions remain a highly effective option.

Making the Right Choice

The right choice depends on your environment and performance requirements. If your device must endure harsh conditions or complex 3D coverage requirements, Parylene coating can provide unmatched protection. For less demanding applications, traditional conformal coatings may strike the best balance between performance, reworkability, and budget.

The right choice depends on environment, geometry, and compliance requirements, which is why many manufacturers engage our coating services for application-specific guidance and discuss the options.

SCH Services Ltd: Your Coating Partner

At SCH Services Ltd, we provide both Parylene and liquid conformal coating solutions — helping you select the right option for your project. Whether you need high-performance protection or cost-effective coverage, our expertise ensures your product is protected for the long term.

Learn more: Parylene coating services

Conformal coating masking solutions including reusable boots, high-temperature masking tapes, dots, and custom shapes for protecting PCBs during coating and Parylene processes

From Bottleneck to Breakthrough: How Custom Masking Shapes Transform Conformal Coating Production

October 1, 2025 Masking

In modern electronics and high-reliability assemblies, one of the most overlooked yet critical steps is masking—protecting areas that must remain coating-free during the conformal coating process. Done poorly, masking becomes a bottleneck: misalignment, rework, and delays can cripple throughput. But with custom masking shapes for conformal coating, you can turn that bottleneck into a breakthrough.

Explore our range of custom masking shapes for conformal coating designed to speed setup, improve consistency, and boost production yield.

The Masking Challenge

When applying conformal coatings—or advanced materials like Parylene—pads, connectors, keep-out zones, and sensitive features must be protected precisely. Traditional manual cutting of tape is slow, inconsistent, and often unreliable.

The result?

Masking residue left behind
Shrinkage or degradation under solvents
De-wetting caused by silicone contamination
Tape lifting or coating bleed into protected areas

These issues reduce yield, increase rework, and slow down production.

For a full breakdown of masking options and where each is best used, see Conformal Coating Masking: Methods & Materials.

The Advantage of Custom Masking Shapes

At SCH Services Ltd, we provide custom masking shapes designed specifically for conformal coating processes—including the same materials we use in our own production services. That means the shapes we supply are proven daily for accuracy, consistency, and clean removal.

Benefits of custom shapes include:

Residue-free removal with no damage to components
Solvent and chemical resistance for demanding environments
Silicone-free materials to reduce contamination and coating defects
Clean, reliable adhesion that helps prevent lifting and bleed
Ready-to-use sheets for fast application and reduced operator time

Because we rely on these shapes daily in our own conformal coating services, we know firsthand how they improve throughput, reduce defects, and remove bottlenecks.

For standard formats or fast turnaround requirements, custom masking dot and shape sheets can also be ordered directly via our online shop. Order custom masking dot and shape sheets online.

From Bottleneck to Breakthrough

Standardising masking with custom masking shapes for conformal coating improves speed and repeatability—while reducing operator variation.

CHALLENGE	MANUAL MASKING	CUSTOM MASKING SHAPES
Cutting & prep time	High	Minimal – peel & place
Consistency	Operator dependent	Uniform every time
Risk of rework/defects	High	Low
Cycle efficiency	Slow	Streamlined
Yield loss	Frequent	Reduced

By reducing cutting time and improving repeatability, masking becomes faster, cleaner, and more reliable—supporting higher yield and smoother production flow.

SCH Services Ltd: Proven in Our Own Services

Unlike suppliers who only sell materials, SCH Services Ltd actively uses these masking shapes in our own conformal and Parylene coating services. Customers benefit from the same speed, precision, and clean demasking performance we demand for our own clients.

When reliability matters, masking isn’t a bottleneck—it’s a breakthrough.

If you’re ready to standardise masking in your production, learn more about custom masking shapes for conformal coating and how they can reduce defects and cycle time.

If you already know your masking requirements, you can order custom masking dot and shape sheets directly from our shop, or contact us for fully bespoke designs.

Why Static Control Matters More Than Ever in Modern Industries

In today’s high-tech world, static electricity is more than just a small spark—it’s a multi-million-pound risk. From advanced electronics manufacturing to medical devices, automotive systems, aerospace, and logistics, electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage components, disrupt production, and threaten both safety and reliability. Effective static control has never been more critical. The Hidden Threat of Electrostatic […]

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The Hidden Protector: How Parylene Safeguards What You Don’t See

When it comes to protecting modern electronics and critical components, the greatest threats are often the ones you can’t see. Microscopic cracks, invisible moisture, and environmental contaminants all pose silent risks to performance and reliability. That’s where Parylene coating steps in—acting as an invisible shield that ensures long-term durability. The Power of Parylene Coating Unlike […]

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5 Reasons Why Parylene is the Gold Standard for High-Reliability Applications

Introduction: Why Parylene Stands Out When it comes to protecting electronic assemblies, manufacturers have many conformal coating choices — acrylics, silicones, urethanes, and epoxies. But when performance and reliability cannot be compromised, Parylene stands apart as the industry benchmark. At SCH Services Ltd, we are your complete one-stop partner for all Parylene needs. Unlike providers […]

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SCH ProShield® ESD Solutions Launch at Productronica India 2025

SCH Coating Solutions is proud to announce the official launch of our ProShield® ESD protection portfolio at Productronica India 2025 (17–19 September, BIEC Bangalore, Hall 4 – Booth H4.C71). After nine months of development and field validation, ProShield® is ready to help manufacturers create reliable, fully compliant Electrostatic Protected Areas (EPAs). The European launch will […]

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The SCH Advantage: Services, Equipment, Dimers, and Training Under One Roof

In the Parylene industry, many companies focus on a single element: they either provide coating services, sell equipment, or distribute dimers. At SCH Services Ltd, we do things differently. We deliver the complete solution — from coating services and turnkey systems to dimer supply and training — ensuring that customers get the expertise, reliability, and […]

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