What is MLCC?
MLCCs (Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors) are an essential passive component in modern electronic devices. They play a role in noise reduction, voltage stabilization, and signal smoothing in a wide range of fields, including smartphones, personal computers, automobiles, and home appliances. They have structure in which ceramic dielectrics and metal electrodes are stacked alternately in multiple layers, achieving high capacitance while remaining compact.
MLCCs are becoming increasingly important as electronic devices become smaller and high performance, and their number of installations is rapidly increasing, especially with the spread of EVs (electric vehicles) and 5G communication equipment.
Overview of the MLCC manufacturing process
Main Manufacturing Process Flow: MLCC manufacturing involves a great many precise process. The general flow is as follows:
Raw material blending
A slurry (a muddy paste) is created by mixing ceramic powder, which acts as a dielectric, with a binder and solvent.Sheet molding
The slurry is applied thinly and evenly, and then dried to form a thin sheet of ceramic called a "green sheet."Internal electrode printing
The internal electrode pattern is printed onto a green sheet using conductive paste.Cutting
The stacked sheets are cut into individual chip sizes.Firing
By firing at high temperatures, the ceramic and electrodes are integrated, completing the basic structure of the MLCC.External electrode formation
External electrodes are applied to both ends of the chip and then baked on.Plating and Inspection
The external electrodes are plated, and after final inspections of electrical characteristic and appearance, the product becomes a finished product.
Why is temperature control important?
Temperature control in the MLCC manufacturing process is a crucial factor that directly impacts product quality, reliability, and production efficiency.
Reducing the defect rate
Especially in firing process, if the temperature is uneven or deviates from the set temperature profile, various defects such as cracks, delamination (interlamination), insulation defects, and variations in dielectric constancy can occur. Proper temperature control prevents these defects before they occur and contributes to improving yield.Standardization of quality
The sintering behavior of ceramic materials and the adhesion of electrodes are highly dependent on temperature. By achieving a uniform temperature distribution and precise temperature profile control, it is possible to reduce performance variations between products and manufacture MLCCs of consistent quality.Improved reliability
MLCCs are widely used in devices requiring high reliability, such as smartphones and automobiles. In particular, automotive applications require stable operation over a wide temperature range of -55°C to +150°C. Strict temperature control during the manufacturing process is essential to ensure the long-term reliability and lifespan of the product.Energy conservation and productivity improvement
By setting the optimal temperature profile, unnecessary heating is minimized, contributing to energy savings. This also leads to shorter processing times and more stable production line operation, ultimately improving overall productivity.
For these reasons, precise temperature measurement and control at each process of MLCC manufacturing are essential.
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