Parylene and Ruggedization

Ruggedized products are designed to operate reliably in the harshest conditions imaginable. From embedded systems tailored for military applications to specialized research mobile computers and aerospace industry components, these items are built to endure excessive moisture, aridity, severe temperatures, intense vibrations, strong winds, and even the absence of atmosphere. The internal components of these products are fortified to the same rigorous standards as their external casings.

Parylene Conformal Coatings for Ruggedized Products

Manufacturers use various processes to achieve the necessary ruggedization, but Parylene conformal coatings stand out for their exceptional properties. Parylene coatings provide resistance to shock, heavy vibrations and environmental extremes, as well as protection against moisture, heat, dirt, hazardous chemicals and other contaminants. They also have high dielectric strength and can be applied in ultra-thin layers, making them ideal for use in a wide range of industries.

Ruggedized Applications

• Military and industrial keyboards and keypads are coated with Parylene to protect their printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other critical components. These coatings ensure the keyboards can withstand extreme acceleration, altitude changes, temperature and humidity variations, impacts and vibrations over long periods of use. They also meet MIL-STD-461 standards for electromagnetic interference protection.
• Ruggedized mobile devices like smartphones and tablets use Parylene to safeguard their electronics from dust, water, shock, drops and extreme temperatures. This allows them to maintain reliable connectivity and perform their functions effectively in challenging environments. Other devices like cameras, connectors and bonding technology also employ Parylene coatings for similar protection.
• Automotive sensors, controls and seals are subjected to harsh operating conditions. Ruggedization improves their performance and reliability by reducing the risk of malfunction or breakdown due to thermal variations and exposure to corrosive fluids. Parylene coatings play a crucial role in protecting these components, enabling dependable communications platforms for GPS, WiFi/Bluetooth^® and vehicle diagnostics.
• Aerospace and commercial markets also heavily rely on Parylene for ruggedization. It prevents unwanted adhesion on silicon materials, ensures reliable fiber optic communications and protects transceivers and test equipment from environmental hazards. These applications require adherence to strict standards like MIL-STD-883, MIL-STD-810 and ARINC 801-806, which Parylene helps to achieve.

In conclusion, ruggedized products are becoming increasingly important for a wide range of industries. They must meet demanding performance standards for reliability, durability and functionality in the face of extreme environmental challenges. Parylene conformal coatings offer a powerful solution for achieving these requirements, enhancing the performance and longevity of countless ruggedized devices and systems.