“Press-n-Peel” PCB design method

Henrique Miranda

April 19, 2007

This PCB design method makes uses of a blue transfer film usually called “Press-n-Peel”
Blue, or PnP Blue, manufactured by Techniks, Inc1 .
Description of the material from the Techniks webpage:
“PnP Blue produces high quality prototype PCB resist layouts making your design ready to
etch. PnP Blue is a Mylar (Polyester) backed material in which several layers of release agents
and resist coatings are applied. An image is printed or photocopied onto this film, using a
laser printer or photocopier (dry toner based), and subsequently ironed or pressed onto a
cleaned copper clad board. The image area applied to the film is subsequently transferred
to the copper board, along with the high quality resist (blue). The film is removed and
resulting board is ready to etch in ferric chloride.”
The following steps can be used as guidelines for a proper PCB design with the PnP method:

1. Take a copy of the artwork and print it onto the PnP Blue. The printer must be a
laser-type that uses toner as the printing method. The PnP edges should be trimmed
so that there is at least a 5 mm border around the artwork.

2. Cut a blank copper PCB to the same dimensions as the artwork plus a border of 5 mm
ore more around the edges.

3. Polish the board thoroughly with steel wool and soap. The board should be extremely
clean for the toner to transfer onto it effectively. When the copper is shiny, wipe the
board using a rag and a solvent like acetone to clean any excess residue off.

4. Heat a clothes iron up to ”Cotton” temperature range (approx. 300 F / 150 C).

5. Place the blank PCB onto a heat resistant surface with copper-side up. Place the PnP
artwork face down onto the copper and carefully align on the board. Place a blank
sheet of paper over the PnP which acts as a shield to prevent the PnP sticking to the
hot iron.
1
http://www.techniks.com

1
 6. When the iron has heated up, gently run the iron over the copper/PnP/paper sandwich
to get the PnP to begin adhering to the copper, making sure that the PnP film does
not slide over the PCB. This should only take a few seconds. Next press the iron firmly
and run it over the entire area of the PCB for 3–4 minutes, ensuring that all areas of
the board gets even amounts of heating.

7. Take the iron off the PnP and remove the paper protector. Allow the board to cool
with the PnP still attached. It is very important that the board cools down to room
temperature before trying to peel it.

8. Slowly peel the PnP away from the copper revealing the artwork transferred to the
board.

9. Etch the board using a solution of Muriatic acid diluted in water in a 1:3 proportion
(one part of acid, three parts of water) in a plastic or glass container, gently agitating
the solution. Ammonium Persulphate or Ferric Chloride are also alternative etchants.
Caution: always wear rubber gloves when handling these products. Never ever operate
these acids without wearing safety goggles (a splash is enough to make you blind!).
Also use the chemicals in a well ventilated area.

10. Remove the board from the etchant and wash any residue from the board.

11. Remove the PnP resist from the PCB using steel wool or acetone.