Advice for sealing a PCB

[CraigT82]

I have ordered a can of Ambersil acrylic conformal coating and I plan on using it to seal the motherboard inside my AZEQ6.

Does anyone have any hints, tips or tricks for doing this? 

Cheers

[Shed9]

Make sure the molex connectors and any DIP switches are masked off properly. Do it in a well ventilated area, wear a mask and read the hazard sheet before using it. 

Edit: obviously make sure it's clean and free of dust before application, maybe use a stiff art brush and isopropyl alcohol before application making sure that evaporates before application and stay away from the board connectors and and DIP switches. One other thing to note, make sure there isn't already any varnish on the board else the isopropyl will affect that and the Ambersil will also react. 

Edited December 18, 2022 by Shed9

[CraigT82]

1 hour ago, Shed9 said:

Make sure the molex connectors and any DIP switches are masked off properly. Do it in a well ventilated area, wear a mask and read the hazard sheet before using it. 

Edit: obviously make sure it's clean and free of dust before application, maybe use a stiff art brush and isopropyl alcohol before application making sure that evaporates before application and stay away from the board connectors and and DIP switches. One other thing to note, make sure there isn't already any varnish on the board else the isopropyl will affect that and the Ambersil will also react. 

Thanks I think I’ll wear eye protection too and be sure to mask connectors and switches. 

[Carbon Brush]

Do not underestimate the masking. Make sure the tape is well bonded around connectors, switches, etc.
The laquer wicks really well!

Shake the can like maraccas for a full dance routine. You don't know how long it has been on the shelf.
Do the job at room temperature and in a dry room.
Having everything warm will help with atomising the spray, and allow the laquer to creep/run on the PCB.
If the air is really humid the spray droplets tend to pick up moisture.
Good laquers are really stinky. Evaporating the solvent takes a long time.

Keep the PCB horizontal so the laquer doesn't try to run off.
Arrange some stand off supports through the existing mounting holes. It can be matchsticks, spare bolts, etc.
Do one side then wait several minutes for hardening to start, then turn the PCB over to do the second side.

When we use this sort of coating at work it is usually in a separate room at the end of the day.
Think about doing it just before leaving for work.😀

You are doing this for function - not appearance. Unlike spraying a car you don't need worry about blobs, runs, etc.

HTH, David.

 

[CraigT82]

Thanks, all sounds like good advice