Choosing a Manufacturing Career

3 Different Types Of Packages For PCB Shipping

When it comes to shipping items, it is essential to have the proper packaging. When shipping something as delicate as a printed circuit board (PCB), you need to have the right packaging to protect all of the intricate and delicate parts so that it doesn't get damaged. During transport, a PCB package can sustain serious damage when it is shipped around the country or around the world. Therefore, you need the proper packaging to keep things safe when dealing with sensitive equipment.

1. Anti-Static Packaging

When shipping an electronic component, you need to be aware of the risk of electrostatic discharge damaging the electrical components due to the fast transfer of electrostatic charges between parts. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is one of the most common ways an electrical component can be damaged, both in the real world and during the shipping process.

When you are shipping a PCB, you want to ensure that you are taking steps to reduce the chance of an ESD. One of the most common ways to do that is by wrapping the item up in an anti-static bubble wrap that will cushion the item, help dissipate any electric charges, and not generate any ESD of its own.

Anti-static bubble wrap is generally pink in appearance, making it easy to identify. You can also use an anti-static bag that is designed to protect against ESD but doesn't provide the same level of cushioning as anti-static bubble wrap does. Like bubble wrap, these bags tend to be plastic for easy identification purposes.

2. Moisture Proof Packaging

With a PCB, you also need to ensure that it is not exposed to any moisture during the shipping process. Moisture can damage electronic components and can cause the circuit to short.

To protect against moisture damage during the shipping process, wrap the PCB up in a sealed moisture barrier bag. Also, try to add small bags of desiccant to the package. Desiccant is a drying agent that can absorb any moisture that gets into your packaging and will help to keep your PCB safe.

3. Anti-Vibration Packaging

You are going to want to protect your PCB against the movement as well. Movement can damage your PCB as much as electrostatic charge and moisture can. Therefore, use enough packaging to keep things from moving around. Using something like a compressed package will keep things tight and in place. Alternatively, you can use floating packaging, which uses small pads to help absorb the shock of movement. Or you can use a mold box, which will fit packaging right around the item.

When shipping a PCB, you need to use multiple types of packaging, such as anti-static packaging, moisture-proof packaging, and vibration packaging, all necessary to keep everything in place. To learn more, contact a company that offers PCB shipping services.


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