Conformal Coating Application Processes: A Complete Guide
Spray Coating Application
Batch spray coating is one of the most flexible conformal coating application processes, used for both prototypes and production. Manual spray and batch booths are suited to low–medium volumes.
- Pros: Low equipment cost, flexible setup, easy rework.
- Watch-outs: Operator variability and overspray risks.
Dip Coating Process
Dip coating provides highly repeatable coverage when boards share similar form factors. It is one of the most established PCB coating processes for uniform film builds.
- Pros: Excellent repeatability, scalable for volume production.
- Watch-outs: Heavy masking requirements.
Selective Robotic Conformal Coating
Selective robotic coating uses CNC-controlled valves to apply coatings with precision. This automated method reduces waste and minimises masking.
- Pros: Low material waste, repeatable, reduced masking.
- Watch-outs: Higher capital cost and programming time.
Brush Application / Touch-Up
Brush application is the simplest of the conformal coating techniques, mainly used for repair or localised application where precision is needed.
- Pros: Minimal equipment, very targeted application.
- Watch-outs: Cosmetic variation and low repeatability.
Parylene Deposition
Parylene is applied via vapour deposition, making it unique among conformal coating application processes. It provides ultra-thin, pinhole-free coverage and excellent dielectric properties.
- Pros: True 3D conformality, superior dielectric performance.
- Watch-outs: Requires specialist equipment and critical masking.
Choosing the Right Conformal Coating Application Processes
Each of the main conformal coating application processes—spray, dip, selective robotic, brush, and Parylene—offers distinct strengths and trade-offs. The right choice depends on several factors:
- Production volume: Small batches may benefit from manual spray or brush, while high-volume runs often justify selective robotic or dip coating.
- Reliability requirements: Harsh environments, such as aerospace or automotive, may demand Parylene or tightly controlled liquid processes.
- Cost considerations: Equipment investment, labour, masking effort, and material consumption all influence total cost of ownership.
- Design complexity: Boards with high component density or difficult geometries may require 3D coverage from Parylene or precision selective application.
Selecting the most appropriate method is rarely about one factor alone—it’s about balancing throughput, performance, and budget to achieve reliable long-term protection.
External resource: For industry standards on conformal coating application processes, see IPC-CC-830 Conformal Coating Standard and UL 746E.
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 – Trusted by aerospace, medical, defence, automotive, and electronics industries worldwide.
- 🛠️ End-to-End Support – Selection, masking strategies, application methods, inspection, and ProShieldESD integration.
- 📈 Scalable Solutions – From prototypes to high-volume production.
- 🌍 Global Reach – Responsive technical support across Europe, North America, and Asia.
- ✅ Proven Reliability – Quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction across services, equipment, and materials.
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