Looking for suggestions to protect 4-in-1 ESC in addition to Conformal and/or Kapton tape

Hardware Other Hardware
1

I’m working on a team that has selected these 20x20 FETTec 4-in-1 ESCs for a “mini” quad build.

Unlike other 4-in-1 ESCs I’ve used, there are no heat sinks that protect the electronics. And the electronics need protecting. (Ask me how I know…)

fettec front side
fettec front side1319×1103 382 KB

fettec back side
fettec back side1120×1004 335 KB

We’re looking for suggestions on providing insulating protection to these devices - in order to make sure we’ve considered all the best options.

Our first thoughts were a couple of heavy coats of Conformal. And then maybe some Kapton tape.

These things get fairly warm.

We’d appreciate suggestions on other techniques we might consider trying.

Many Thanks!

2

That looks similar to many 4-in-1 ESC’s. What’s the problem mounting with standard stand-offs? Protecting from what?

3

I agree - it does seem a lot like other bits of electronics. Which is probably why we didn’t take any particular precautions.

Our mounting for this ESC is isolated and secure - no problem there. But we’ve managed to toast three of these in general installation handling.

Obviously, just taking greater care will help - especially if these things are particularly vulnerable to things like static discharge.

I just thought it would be worth asking for suggestions - in case there were techniques we were unfamiliar with so far.

Thanks!

4

Avoid conformal coatings and direct contact with that board, since it likely relies on air movement to dissipate heat. You could use a stacked standoff arrangement and fashion a plastic shield that sits slightly above it if you are concerned about fat fingers and errant conductors.

5

Thanks Yuri -

Yes - heat dissipation is something to think about.

I did a quick bit of research - and found this:

The conformal I have on hand is silicone based.

The quads we’re building are light-duty, short flight oriented - for STEM schools.

An alternate might be to use some kapton tape. I think we’re going to have to do a bit of experimentation.