Flex-Rigid PCB manufacturing advantages and disadvantages
Posted on 2020-02-25Flex-Rigid PCB manufacturing advantages and disadvantages
Are you considering using a Flex-Rigid PCB manufacturing in an upcoming device, product, or prototype? Every device and every build starts with the core component: PCB or printed circuit board. The PCB type you choose depends on your application.
There are two main types of PCB circuit boards used in industrial and mass manufacturing: flexible PCBs. Both types are different from traditional rigid PCBs. As you would expect, these board types are designed with a combination of flexible and rigid materials and technologies. Flexible circuit boards are rolled from copper and similar materials with the main goal of providing sufficient flexibility and bending resistance. Flexible rigid PCBs, on the other hand, are constructed using a combination of two technologies and have flexible and rigid areas.
The flexible printed circuit board
Flexible printed circuit boards are considered “flexible” for a number of reasons, but the most obvious thing is that their circuits can be designed to match electronic devices or core products. Manufacturers are not forced to create products or enclosures around circuit boards. Instead, they can adjust the board to fit existing designs. This is useful when creating components or hardware with an orthodox design. For example, if you are concerned about the total weight, portability, and durability of a particular device, traditional circuit boards may not be possible.
Flex-Rigid PCB advantages and disadvantages
Sometimes, flexible circuit boards must accommodate product limitations. For example, it may be necessary to reduce the size of the circuit board, and it may be necessary to move or redesign the circuit to match the case specifications and size. All circuits are laid out in different patterns-including components and then highlighted by an extensible base material such as copper. Traditional printed circuit boards are also rolled in this way, except that the materials used are heavier and stronger.
Flexible PCB Manufacturing and disadvantages:
- Reliability: Because the mechanical connector is removed, the cost is excellent.
- Cost: higher cost than rigid or flexible rigidity.
- Temperature resistance: General.
- Totally flexible and pliable.
- Can be adapted to any design.
- More suitable for fast-moving and high stress conditions.
Flex-Rigid Printed Circuit Board
Flex-rigid PCBs are named after they use a combination of flexible and rigid circuit areas. Like most printed circuit boards, flexible rigid boards have multiple layers, but often more than traditional designs.
Flex-Rigid PCB manufacturing and disadvantages
These additional conductive layers use rigid or flexible insulation depending on the product requirements. The outer layer on the board-no matter how much-usually contains exposed pads or covers to ensure safety. Conductors are used for the primary rigid layer, while flexible plated through-holes are used for any flexible and rigid additional layers.
Some projects require traditional rigid technology and design. Others have restrictions that prevent manufacturers from using these larger, less flexible boards. For example, if you use a standard board design, mobile and portable devices will be affected. Too many moving parts and components do not perform well when subjected to certain conditions. Mobile devices need to be portable, lightweight, and able to withstand conditions such as heat, cold, and sometimes humidity.
Flex-Rigid PCB advantages and disadvantages:
- Reliability: Excellent due to reduced need for solder joints.
- Cost: lower cost compared to flexible circuit boards.
- Temperature resistance: excellent.
- Suitable for medium to slightly above normal movements and stresses.
- More flexible and flexible than traditional circuit boards.
- Long-term reliability due to fewer interconnects and components.
- Minimal maintenance required.
Flexible and Flexible-The unique features of the PCB make it ideal for different applications. When choosing between flexible, flexible rigid plates and rigid plates, consider the characteristics required for your design.