How can I electrically isolate a PCB from a heat sink?

I have a set of LED driving lights for motorcycle that must be wired through a ground-leg pulse width modulation dimmer. The problem is the mounting bracket for the lights is grounded, so the lamp shorts to ground through the motorcycle chassis and the PWM dimmer cant dim the lamps. How do I handle this problem?
  • Use Kapton tape
  • Use Sil-pad and shoulder washer. If you use a sil-pad the screw will still electrically connect the componet tab with the heat sink, soashoulder washer should be used to isolate the screw and the tab.

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Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.
Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

What Others Are Asking

Are SMT components bad for high voltage applications?

Many assembly factories are asking for SMT jobs, while I think through hole would be a better option for a high voltage application. Before the high voltage project is started, we need to make a call on SMT or Through hole parts. Is there a study on this?

What are primary and secondary sides of PCB?

I am designing a 2 layer PCB with components on both side of it. SMT components are one one side of PCB, but TH (through hole) components are on both sides. I need to understanding something mentioned by the supplier called primary and secondary sides.

How can I fix the PCB to the mechanical structure?

I designed a PCB with an imaging sensor that is mechanically coupled to a lens assembly using four 2-56 screws. I’m noticing that even though the screws are holding the board tightly against the mechanical structure if I flick or lightly knock the the assembly the image “moves”.  I’m hoping to get a few suggestions for ways to fix the PCB to the mechanical structure. Any suggestions for adhesives or the like? Something else?

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