Board Supports are mechanical components designed to provide structural stability and positioning for printed circuit boards (PCBs), backplanes, and electronic subassemblies. These components ensure proper alignment, vibration resistance, and thermal management in electronic systems. Their importance has grown with advancements in miniaturization, high-density packaging, and harsh-environment applications across industries.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Rail Guides | Linear support with low-friction sliding surfaces | Server rackmount systems |
| Standoff Mounts | Spaced mounting with threaded inserts | PCB layer stacking |
| Edge Clamps | Quick-lock lateral fixation | Industrial control panels |
| Heat Dissipating Brackets | Integrated thermal conduction paths | High-power LED arrays |
| Modular Support Systems | Configurable cross-beam structures | Data center switch racks |
Typical board supports consist of: - Load-bearing base (aluminum alloy/steel/stainless steel) - Precision-machined mounting slots (T-slot/round/oval patterns) - Anti-vibration damping elements (elastomer inserts) - Surface treatments (anodizing/zinc plating) - Quick-adjustment mechanisms (cam locks/micro-adjust screws) - Integrated wiring channels (for cable management)
| Parameter | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 0.5-500kg range | Structural integrity under operational stress |
| Material Hardness | 6061-T6 Al (95HBW) | Weight/strength ratio optimization |
| Dimensional Tolerance | 0.05mm to 0.2mm | Interchangeability assurance |
| Corrosion Resistance | 1000h salt spray test | Lifetime durability in harsh environments |
| Thermal Conductivity | 180-250 W/m K | Heat dissipation efficiency |
| Manufacturer | Representative Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| PEM | FASTmount Series | Self-clinching PCB supports |
| Bossard | Ecopac Zero | Carbon-neutral fastening systems |
| Misumi | HFSR8-2020 | Aluminum extrusion rails |
| Eaton | Hoffman EC series | Seismic-rated enclosures |
| Rittal | TS 8 Cabinet System | Modular mounting frames |
Key considerations:
Example: For vibration-prone applications like railway signaling, select stainless steel supports with integrated elastomer dampers and locking mechanisms meeting EN 50155 standards.
Emerging trends include:
Market forecasts predict 7.2% CAGR through 2030, driven by 5G infrastructure expansion and EV production growth according to Grand View Research.
