_ The copper layer of a PCB oxidizes when it meets air, reducing the soldering ability of the copper. With a surface finish, however, the copper layer is protected from oxidation, maintaining the soldering and electrical performance of the material.
_ ENEPIG is an acronym for Electroless Nickel Electroless Palladium Immersion Gold. This type of finish offers abundant benefits that make it suitable for a variety of applications.
_ENEPIG is a type of metal plating for PCBs. Developed around a decade ago, this kind of surface finish has gained popularity in recent years for its comparatively low cost to other types of gold plating for PCBs. Over the past several years, prices for palladium have substantially decreased compared to gold. By using palladium plating for PCBs instead of pure gold, PCB plating services can reduce plating costs, making ENEPIG a more popular electronic plating solution.
_ Nicknamed the “universal surface finish” for its ability to be deposited on just about any PCB assembly, ENEPIG finishes are primarily used to support soldering and gold and aluminum wire bonding. On top of these functionalities, ENEPIG plating also extends the functional shelf life of a plated PCB well beyond a year.