How Does Water Damage A Circuit Board

We've all heard the phrase, "Water and electronics don't mix." We know that water can be damaging to a circuit board, but what exactly happens when water comes in contact with one? In this article, we'll explore how water affects a circuit board and why it is so important to keep any electronics away from water.

Water is an electrical conductor, meaning that it can conduct electricity. When a circuit board comes in contact with water, this electrical current can cause an arc between components. This arc causes sparks, which can damage the board and components, causing shorts and other serious issues. The amount of damage depends on the type of board, how much water has entered the board, and how long the board has been exposed.

When water gets inside a circuit board, it can cause corrosion, which can lead to a breakdown in the insulation of wires and components. This can lead to shorts and poor performance, or even total failure of the board. Water can also cause physical damage to the board itself, such as warping, deformation, and discoloration.

It is important to note that while wetting a circuit board will usually cause some degree of damage, the extent of the damage depends on the type of board and the length of exposure. For instance, printed circuit boards are more vulnerable to water damage than flexible boards because the former contains more intricate parts and is less resistant to water intrusion.

Ultimately, keeping electronics away from water is the best way to avoid water damage to circuit boards. If a board does come into contact with water, it should be thoroughly dried with a low-heat source, such as a hair dryer, and then tested to make sure it still functions properly. If any problems are detected, the board should be replaced.

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