Potting In-Line
Potting, also known as encapsulation, is a process frequently used in the manufacture of electronic products. Typical applications for polymer potting include the production of sensors, control units, electric motors, lamps and battery modules. Low-viscosity materials such as 1K or 2K potting compounds made of polyurethane (PU), epoxy or silicone are used. These materials are precisely dispensed into molds such as housings, frames or other components.
Potting processes fulfill a variety of tasks:
- Electrical insulation
- Protection against dirt or chemicals
- Sealing against moisture (e.g. IP )
- Fixing and damping - protection against vibrations and shocks
- Dissipation of heat
- Know-how Protection against espionage through sealing
Potting process flow
Surface pre-treatment:
A clean surface is crucial for successful potting. Depending on the component and potting material, additional pre-treatment may be necessary. For example, activation of the surface for better adhesion.
Potting:
For the potting process itself, a suitable potting technique is necessary. A potting system typically consists of:
- Material preparation and feeding
- pump
- Mixing system / dispensing head
Testing:
To ensure that potting has been carried out correctly and meets the quality requirements, special testing procedures can be integrated directly after potting. A camera system with modern image processing is often used here. This enables precise inspection of the potting position, material quantity and surface quality.
Curing:
After potting, the dispensed material must cure. Curing often takes place under ambient conditions. However, depending on the potting material used, specific conditions such as heat, UV radiation or a defined level of humidity are required.
Wolf Produktionssysteme has developed the ThermoLine product series to meet these requirements. These are individually adaptable conveyor ovens. They can be integrated directly into the production line. As the product passes through the oven section, the potting hardens under optimum conditions. The length of the thermal section as well as the temperature and humidity parameters are precisely matched to the requirements of the respective process. If required, the ThermoLine can also be equipped with UV light systems.
More about the ThermoLine product series
Integration of a potting process into a production line
Wolf Produktionssysteme integrates potting and dispensing systems from leading manufacturers such as bdtronik, Scheugenpflug and Rampf. Other manufacturers can also be integrated without any problems - the selection is always made individually based on the customer's requirements. We are happy to assist you in evaluating suitable process technology.
At Wolf, the potting process is seamlessly integrated into an automated production line. This is done on the basis of the proven SkyLine platform. The dispensing head can be moved flexibly along one or more axes. The integration also includes automatic cleaning and calibration of the dispensing system. The workpiece carrier transfer is handled by the Wolf machine.