What Causes Bubbles In Conformal Coating?

A major causes for failure during conformal coating inspection is bubbles. Bubbles are trapped pockets of air under coating that can cause voids.

The 6 Leading Causes of Bubbles:

1. During the application of a conformal coating, the wet film surface can skin over. The solvents become trapped under the skin, resulting in a bubble or burst out.
2. Throughout the drying or curing process, air trapped under components from coating application can be forced out, causing bubbles to form.
3. Applying a coating too thick or viscously can lead to the formation of bubbles. The bubbles then become entrapped in the coating.
4. Pressure pots containing conformal coating can absorb air and result in champagne bubbles developing during application.
5. Brush application of a very viscous material or working with coating can cause bubbles.
6. Using incorrect spray equipment or the wrong pressure can result in a large number of bubbles and may even appear to be foam-like.

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