Case 1796 ยท Public preview
Conformal Coating Cannot Make Conventional Electronics Steam-Proof
Two conformal-coated assemblies exposed to steam developed corrosion and unstable low resistance between power and ground.
Electrical testingVariable-pressure SEMBSE imagingEDSHardware comparison
What the evidence preview establishes
Steam exposure drove extensive zinc and tin corrosion and ionic leakage. Zinc-plated hardware likely accelerated nearby tin corrosion through galvanic effects, while incomplete conformal-coating coverage exposed adjacent conductors. The steam environment remained the dominant cause.
Why this case matters
Conformal coating is a delay barrier, not a pressure-tight moisture seal. For steam service, reconsider the environment, enclosure, zinc-plated hardware, conductor spacing, coating coverage, and use of conventional board materials.
Full evidence reserved for MEMBER and STOREThe complete case includes the evidence sequence, four interpreted figures, alternative explanations, limitations, and practical application guidance.