Multi‑gauge strip is a copper or copper‑alloy strip with different thicknesses across the width of the strip. These thickness transitions are integrated into the strip during with our precision milling process . As a result, components no longer need to be assembled from several stamped parts, but can be manufactured from one single piece.
Why multi-gauge strip?
Stamping multi-gauge strip is more cost-effective than stamping with simultaneous thickness reduction by means of embossing:
Why milling?
Strip with multiple gauges can be produced by rolling, hammering or milling. Especially for electromechanical applications or discrete semiconductor devices, multi-gauge strip made by milling are preferred for various reasons:
Available materials
Surface finishes
Electroplating of multi-gauge strip is possible without any problems. Full-surface coatings of nickel (common for power transistor strip), and tin or silver (common for connectors) as well as selective partial precious metal plating of silver or gold for contact areas of electromechanical components are used.
In-plant hot dip tinning is also possible before milling. In these cases, the milled area is bare.
| Dimensions | |
| W | 20–150 mm |
| T1 | 0.3–3.0 mm |
| T2 | ≥ 0.15 mm |
| CW | 0.35–100 mm |
| a | ≤ 88° |
Other dimensions on request
| Typical tolerances | |
| CW | ±0.02 mm |
| R | ±0.03 mm |
| T2 | ±0.01 mm |
| a | ±1° |
| Unmilled surface Ra /Rmax | ≤ 0.20 / 1.5 μm |
| Milled surface Ra /Rmax | ≤ 0.40 / 2.5 μm |
Pancake coils are the simplest and therefore most economical delivery format for strip. They are packed horizontally on square or round pallets whos size is matched to the outer diameter of the coils. For stamping so-called pallet decoilers are recommended. For these Wieland offers round pallets with diameters up to 1,500 mm. Please specify one of the decoiling options according to the drawing. For simple profiles and widths below 35 mm, delivery on drums is also possible.
Leadframes for power transistors typically combine thin gauge leads with thicker heatslinks. To economically stamp, plate and assemble power transistors multi-gauge strip is widely used within the industry.
Multi-gauge strip offers a variety of functional solutions to design the packaging of power LED. Within limited space leadframes made from multi-gauge strip provide current supply and good heat dissipation at the same time in one stamped part.
Stamped parts for electromechanical components have to combine high electrical conductivity with rigidity, formability and good elasticity. In many cases multi-gauge strip is the most cost effective solution to achieve these properties within a limited space.