BERATRONIC

Metal core PCBs (IMS)

Metal core PCBs, also known as IMS PCBs (Insulated Metal Substrate), offer an innovative solution for applications with high thermal requirements.
Instead of the traditional FR4 material, IMS PCBs use a metal core.
This core is usually made of aluminum or copper and is provided with a thin thermal interface material (TIM) and a copper conductor layer.
This special design enables efficient heat dissipation from the components, which is particularly advantageous in LED lighting.

Our portfolio
Our IMS printed circuit boards

Advantages of IMS printed circuit boards

A key advantage of IMS PCBs is their ability to dissipate heat from critical areas of the PCB quickly and effectively.
This reduces the risk of overheating and ensures stable component performance.
IMS PCBs are also mechanically robust and provide excellent electrical insulation, making them ideal for demanding industrial applications.

Typical applications for IMS PCBs include power electronics, LED lighting, automotive and applications that require high thermal resistance.
They are particularly useful in environments where high heat generation occurs and help to increase the reliability and service life of end products.

Excellent thermal conductivity

IMS printed circuit boards made of aluminum offer a significantly higher thermal conductivity compared to conventional PCB materials, usually in the range of 1-2 W/m-K.
Dielectric materials with a thermal conductivity of up to 12 W/m-K are also available on request.

Efficient heat dissipation

The metal core dissipates heat efficiently, which improves the service life and performance of the electronic components.

Areas of application for IMS printed circuit boards

IMS PCBs are used in numerous industries.
In LED lighting, they significantly improve the performance and service life of LEDs.
In the automotive industry, they are indispensable in headlights and brake lights.
In medical technology, they are used in devices such as medical imaging equipment.
They are also used in telecommunications and industrial electronics, where high performance and reliability are required.

IMS PCBs

Specs

IMS PCBs

Layer

Specs

1-6 Layer

IMS PCBs

Technology Highlights

Specs

Copper Pedestal Board (Copper Direct-contact Technology), 3D Bendable AL base PCB, COB mirror reflection Alu pcb, counter sink hole & blind hole, resin plugged hole, thermal conductivity 12W

IMS PCBs

Materials

Specs

Aluminum, copper, ferrum & stainless steel

IMS PCBs

Metal Base

Specs

AL 1100, 3003, 5052, 6061, Mirror Finish AL, Cu, Fe, Stainless Steel

IMS PCBs

Final Thickness

Specs

0.5 - 5.0mm

IMS PCBs

Copper Thickness

Specs

18μm - 200µm

IMS PCBs

Insulating Layer Thickness

Specs

25 - 125µm

IMS PCBs

Minimum track & spacing

Specs

0.10 mm / 0.10 mm

IMS PCBs

Max. Size

Specs

1200 x 500mm

IMS PCBs

Surface Treatments

Specs

ENIG, HAL Leadfree, HASL, OSP, Imm. Tin, Imm. Ni/Au, Imm. Silver, ENEPIG

IMS PCBs

Minimum Mechanical Drill

Specs

0.5mm

IMS PCBs

Minimum Laser Drill

Specs

0.3mm

FAQ

Answers to the most common questions about IMS PCBs

1. What are IMS PCBs and what are they used for?

IMS (Insulated Metal Substrate) PCBs are specialized printed circuit boards built on a metallic base, typically aluminum or copper. They are primarily used in applications that require efficient heat dissipation – such as LED lighting, power electronics, and automotive systems.

2. What advantages do IMS PCBs have over standard PCBs?

IMS PCBs offer outstanding thermal conductivity, excellent mechanical stability, and long operational life. Compared to conventional FR4 boards, they enable the use of high-power components in compact layouts while reducing the need for additional cooling.

3. Which industries and applications are IMS PCBs best suited for?

They are widely used in LED technology, power supply units, automotive electronics (e.g. control modules, sensors), industrial systems, renewable energy applications, and power electronics where high currents and heat generation occur.

4. What materials does BERATRONIC use for IMS PCBs?

BERATRONIC utilizes premium aluminum and copper substrates combined with thermally conductive dielectric layers. Depending on project requirements, various substrate thicknesses, copper weights, and surface finishes such as ENIG, HAL, or OSP can be implemented.

5. What manufacturing capabilities does BERATRONIC offer for IMS boards?

We produce IMS PCBs in a wide range of material and copper thicknesses – from prototypes and small batches to large-scale production. With modern manufacturing equipment, we ensure precise drilling, fine trace definition, and consistently high-quality surface finishes.

6. What additional services does BERATRONIC provide for IMS PCBs?

Beyond production, BERATRONIC also offers component assembly, testing services (such as AOI and electrical inspection), and complete module assembly – providing dependable, end-to-end solutions from a single source.

IMS PCBs at BERATRONIC

At BERATRONIC, we are proud to offer you high-quality IMS PCBs that meet your specific requirements while ensuring optimal heat dissipation. Contact us for more information and personalized advice.

Request now & learn more