Specialty Coating Systems (SCS) offers advanced conformal coatings that protect the electronics of unmanned systems from extreme conditions, ensuring durability, compliance, and long-lasting performance across aerospace, defense, and industrial applications.
Unmanned systems face some of the most challenging environments imaginable.From high-altitude UAVs exposed to severe temperatures and humidity to UUVs operating in corrosive saltwater, maintaining reliable functionality is crucial. SCS provides conformal coating solutions that shield these essential systems, protecting sensitive circuits while adhering to size, weight, and power limitations.
With over five decades of experience, SCS is a trusted name in conformal coating technologies, delivering protective solutions for unmanned systems in aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. Thier extensive range of coatings includes Parylene, liquid, plasma, atomic layer deposition (ALD), and multilayer coatings, ensuring the reliability and longevity of electronic components in UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), UGVs (unmanned ground vehicles), uuvs (unmanned underwater vehicles), and space systems.
Silicone Conformal Coatings: A Vital Shield
Silicone-based conformal coatings act as a crucial protective layer for printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other electronic components, guarding against environmental threats such as moisture, high temperatures, dust, chemicals, and corrosion. These coatings are essential for preserving the performance and durability of unmanned systems operating in demanding conditions.
Applied using manual or automated methods such as spraying, brushing, or dipping, silicone conformal coatings cure into a thin, protective layer that conforms to the shapes of PCBs and their components. Notable silicone conformal coatings include DOWSIL™ 1-2577, DOWSIL 3-1953, HumiSeal® 1C49, and MG Chemicals 422B.
Silicone coatings provide numerous benefits compared to other types of conformal coatings, including excellent moisture resistance, adaptability, and high-temperature tolerance. Their moisture resistance makes them particularly suitable for protecting PCBs in UAVs, UGVs, and other unmanned platforms that may encounter high humidity, rain, or water exposure. Their flexibility allows them to endure significant vibrations and shocks, which is vital for high-mobility applications where electronics experience continuous movement. Furthermore, silicones can withstand operating temperatures up to 200°C, making them ideal for electronics in medical and defense sectors where thermal management is critical.
However, silicone coatings can pose challenges, especially when PCBs need repairs or modifications, as they can be challenging to remove. Additionally,improper application may lead to contamination,causing de-wetting or adhesion problems. SCS coating specialists apply silicone coatings with precision to minimize risks associated with cross-contamination and adhesion issues.
As industry regulations and concerns regarding perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) grow, manufacturers are increasingly seeking PFAS-free alternatives. Manny silicone conformal coatings offer the necessary protective qualities while being free of PFAS, aligning with evolving environmental and safety standards.
the Role of Conformal Coatings in Unmanned Systems
SCS’s conformal coating solutions are tailored to meet the rising demands of the unmanned systems sector. UAVs, drones, and other autonomous platforms depend on a wide array of PCBs and electronic components utilized in sensors, cameras, flight controllers, mission payloads, and communication systems. These vital components must be protected from environmental exposure to ensure consistent performance and mission success.
As unmanned systems become increasingly integral to industrial, commercial, and defense applications, ensuring their resilience against extreme environmental conditions is essential. SCS’s conformal coatings deliver effective protection, enhancing the reliability, longevity, and operational capabilities of UAVs, UGVs, UUVs, and space-based autonomous technologies.
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