Your Qualified Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer in China

PCBMay is an expert rigid-flex PCB boards manufacturer in China, if you’re looking for a rigid-flex PCB supplier, PCBMay is your best choice.

  • Over 12 years of PCB manufacturing experience
  • Offer different types of PCBs for you
  • 7/24 sales and engineering tech support for your order
  • No minimum order quantity for your new order
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Modern Expert Rigid Flex PCB is Top Recommended

As a professional rigid-flex PCB manufacturer based in China, PCBMay could help you custom excellent rigid-flex PCB based on your Gerber file.

We have been in this industry for over 12 years and could help you to produce different types of PCBs.

From 3layer to 14layer rigid-flex PCB, PCBMay has its own advantages to produce high-quality PCB for you. Because we have passed a lot of certifications like ISO9001, ISO14001, SGS, UL USA, and Canada.

Please send us your inquiry about the PCBs, you will get the instant quotation within 1 day.

PCBMay can provide many types of rigid-flex PCB for you, such as 1-16 layers.

When you have any new inquiries, please send them to us.

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Rigid-Flex PCB Series

3layer Rigid-Flex PCB

At PCBMay, we design and manufacture a wide range of standard and custom rigid-flex printed Circuit Boards. The 3 layers rigid-flex circuit board comprises a single flexible layer and two rigid layers. This type of rigid-flex PCB is designed to create a dynamic interaction between the circuit board and the electronic product in which it is used.

4layer Rigid-Flex PCB

PCBMay offers 4 layers of rigid-flex PCB with 2 layer flex PCB in breakaway panel form, where the breakaway panels are created using the tab routing. These panels are designed such that they do not sag during reflow or wave soldering. These panels remain attached to the PCB during the assembly process and are removed just before the inspection phase.

5layer Rigid-Flex PCB

PCBMay provides rigid-flex printed circuit boards in various standard and custom specifications. These printed circuit boards are used regularly in industries such as power, automobile, telecommunication, and lighting. PCBMay’s 5layer rigid-flex printed circuit boards have gained popularity over the years. These printed circuit boards are known to offer flexibility.

6layer Rigid-flex PCB

PCBMay can provide single, as well as multilayered printed circuit boards, among which 6 layer rigid-flex PCB with stiffener is the most popular one. The stiffeners are added to the PCBs to improve their strength and durability. They help to support the PCB in the manufacturing phase by minimizing the deflection.

7layer Rigid-Flex PCB

7layer Rigid-Flex PCB comprises 7 layers and is made from FR4+polymide. The polyamide material helps improve rigidity, flexibility, and toughness. We can provide this printed circuit board in maximum panel size 18″*24″, and thicknesses of 0.5mm~3.2mm, surface finished: Immersion gold, LF HASL, Immersion Silver, and Immersion Tin.

8layer Rigid-Flex PCB

PCBMay is committed to offering rigid-flex circuit boards quickly and consistently without sacrificing quality. Our engineering team can work with customers who demand nothing short of perfection. With years of effort in the field, we have gained expertise in producing several kinds of PCBs, and one of the types we offer is 8 layer rigid-flex PCB.

Rigid-Flex PCB By Types (5)

  • Flexible PCB

    Flexible PCB means flexible printed circuit board(also called FPC). PCBMay can help you to produce different kinds of Flexible PCB from single-sided flex to multilayer flex.

  • Multilayer Rigid-Flex PCB

    Most of multilayer rigid-flex PCBs are from 3 layer to 20 layer, PCBMay is able to handle different complex jobs and also has experience & knowledge to serve different industries.

  • HDI Rigid-Flex PCB

    HDI rigid-flex PCB is not normal and its technology is very complicated, it’s including rigid-flex PCB and HDI capabilities. The cost is higher than standard rigid-flex PCB.

  • Impedance Rigid-Flex PCB

    Impedance control in rigid-flex PCB is a normal request across the different industry and also have a wide range of applications, such as analogue and digital telecommunications.

  • Hard Gold Rigid-Flex PCB

    This is one 6 layer rigid-flex PCB with hard gold, material: FR4+Polyimide, surface finish: ENIG(2u”) + hard gold(30u”), the min. trace width/space: 4mil/4mil, copper: 1oz.

Rigid-Flex PCB By Copper (5)

  • 0.5oz Rigid-Flex PCB

    This is 4 layer rigid-flex PCB, 1oz copper for outer layer and 1/2oz for inner layer, surface finish is immersion gold, 1.6mm(rigid parts) and 0.13mm (flex parts) for thickness, whose application is medical device.

  • 1oz Rigid-Flex PCB

    PCBMay 1oz Rigid-Flex PCB is the standard copper for your project. You will send your RFQ to us, we love to offer good price and delivery time for you, meanwhile, our engineering team will give you some suggestion.

  • 2oz Rigid-Flex PCB

    2oz copper is 75um copper, PCBMay can manufacture 2oz for inner layer and outer layer of the rigid-flex PCB. If you have any engineering questions, please email them to us, we’d love to help you all the time.

  • 3oz Rigid-Flex PCB

    Do you have 30z copper of rigid-flex PCB? Typically, the Min. trace width/space is 0.25mm/0.25mm for mass production, if it’s a prototype, PCBMay can make 0.2mm/0.2mm for the Min. trace width/space.

  • 4oz Rigid-Flex PCB

    4oz copper is heavy copper, which is not normal for the rigid-flex PCB, but PCBMay can manufacture it for you. Typically, the applications are power supply from aerospace, automotive or the charge of the cars.

Rigid-Flex PCB By Colors (5)

  • Green Rigid-Flex PCB

    You often see the green color of the rigid-flex circuit boards in the PCB industry, which is the same as rigid PCB. There are many different applications such as medical devices, military & defense, automotive, ect.

  • Black Rigid-Flex PCB

    You might see the black rigid-flex PCB, the actual color of the PCBs is soldermask, not PCB itself. One of the main reasons why the solder mask remains black is that such circuits do not require the reflection of light.

  • Blue Rigid-Flex PCB

    As a reliable PCB manufacturer in China, PCBMay can produce different colors of the rigid-flex PCB, such as blue color. We have rich experience and knowledge to manufacture these blue rigid-flex PCBs for you.

  • White Rigid-Flex PCB

    Typically, the white PCB is just for LED lighting, because this color looks very pure and makes the light is very bright. As for the white rigid-flex PCB, they’re used in the lighting of medical operation devices.

  • Red Rigid-Flex PCB

    Red soldermask is easy to distinguish from other colors, what’s more, it depends on the designer of the project. This is 8 layer rigid-flex PCB, thickness 2.0mm(rigid part)+0.2mm(flex part) and surface finish ENIG.

Rigid-Flex PCB Advantages

Fast Delivery Time
Fast Delivery Time
PCBMay can produce the prototype PCBs within 24hour after confirming the engineering questions. Don't hesitate to contact us.
Quality Control
Quality Control
PCBMay follows the IPC Class 2 or Class 3 quality control. There're IQC, IPQC, QPC, FQC, OQC, and provide high-quality products for customers.
Good Communication
Good Communication
PCBMay has one professional team to support our customers and no language barrier & 7*24h communication service.
Laboratory Test
Laboratory Test
PCBMay does a lot of tests during production, such as E-test, function test, and laboratory test, also provide micro-section for each shipment.

PCBMay Rigid-Flex PCB Properties

PCBMay rigid-flex PCB can meet your requirement and please have a look at our capabilities:

Board thickness: 0.6mm-3.2mm(Rigid parts) and 0.05mm-0.3mm(Flex parts)

Copper thickness: 1/3oz-10oz

Surface finished: ENIG/HASL/Immersion Tin/Immersion Silver/Hard Gold

Materials: Shengyi/Panasonic/Dupont/ITEQ/TAIFlex

Solder mask: Green, Blue, Black, White, Red, etc.

Rigid-Flex PCB Properties
Rigid-Flex PCB Production

PCBMay Rigid-Flex PCB Production

The rigid-flex PCB production is almost the same as the rigid PCB, but there are more processes, what are the steps involved in rigid-flex manufacturing:

Prepare the base materials – inner pattern generation – screen printing – photo imaging – etching the pattern circuit – laminating with outer layer – drilling – etching – through-hole plating – apply cover lay – solder mask – silkscreen – surface finish – cutting out the flex – testing – packing.

PCBMay makes sure all the processes are in the house and it’s a good way to control the quality. Our engineering team can provide professional suggestions for your design.

PCBMay is a Leading Rigid-Flex PCB Supplier for Your Project

PCBMay is a professional rigid-flex PCB manufacturer with over 12 years of industry experience. We provide a wide range of rigid-flex PCBs from the prototype, medium batch, and mass production in different industries such as military, aerospace, medical device, and automotive.

As a leading rigid-flex PCB manufacturer, PCBMay has brought many high-tech machines from home and abroad, such as laser drilling machines, laser cutting machines, LDI exposure machines, and laser direct image machines.

Whether you are a PCB distributor, trader, factory, PCB assembler, or end product customer, PCBMay is always your best choice.

Why Choose PCBMay for Your Multilayer PCB

Your Super Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer

Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer
Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer

Rigid-flex PCB is not like the standard PCB, whose technology is very high, not all PCB factories could produce it. As an expert of rigid-flex PCB supplier in China, we could help you to produce many types PCBs.

As a leading PCB manufacturer, we have the rigid-flex PCB capabilities that other companies can’t compete with. We are able to build boards with line and width spacing down to 19 microns (.75 mil) and 1 mil micro vias.

PCBMay has passed different certifications like ISO9001, 14001, and UL USA & Canada with a high-quality product for you.

We could also offer an extremely fast quick turn rigid-flex PCB prototyping service for you, please send your inquiry right now.

Rigid-Flex PCB Fabrication

Rigid-Flex PCB Fabrication

The stack-up of rigid-flex PCB is one of the most parts during rigid-flex PCB fabrication and it’s more complicated than standard rigid boards, let’s have a look at 4 layers of rigid-flex PCB as below:

  • Top solder mask
  • Top layer
  • Dielectric 1
  • Signal layer 1
  • Dielectric 3
  • Signal layer 2
  • Dielectric 2
  • Bottom layer
  • Bottom soldermask
Rigid-Flex PCB Fabrication

Are you worried about the quality of your rigid-flex boards? PCBMay can give you 100% satisfaction with the quality because we strictly follow the requirement and test it in each process.

There’re 6 PCB testing methods as follows:

  • Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)
  • Flying Probe Testing
  • In-Circuit Testing
  • Fixture Testing
  • X-Ray Inspection
  • Micro-Sectioning Analysis
  • Function Testing

OEM & ODM Rigid-Flex PCB Applications

Rigid-Flex PCB for Medical Applications

Due to the high versatility of rigid-flex PCBs, they have been widely integrated into many applications in medical applications, such as laser surgery equipment, high-frequency electrosurgical knife, microwave therapy equipment, medical MRI equipment, and x-ray therapy equipment.

Rigid-Flex PCB for Consumer Electronics Applications

The rigid-flex PCB for consumer electronics applications are computers, laptops, smartphones, TV sets, tablets, game consoles, speakers and headphones, wearables, digital cameras, and VR (Virtual Reality) & AR (Augmented Reality) devices.

Rigid-Flex PCB for Industrial Applications

There are many industrial control applications for rigid-flex PCB, such as Programmable controllers PLC, touch screens, industrial computers, contactors, thermal relays, inverters, etc.

Rigid-Flex PCB for Military Applications

The military applications for rigid-flex PCB are military Aviation equipment, military aerospace equipment, military ships, ground armor, electronic information, and the nuclear industry.

Rigid-Flex PCB Production Details As Following Up

Our experience and technical expertise enable us to develop custom rigid-flex PCBs for any specific application. Here are our full feature rigid-flex PCB manufacturing capabilities:

FeatureCapability
Number of Layers3 – 18layers
Order Quantity1pc – 10000+pcs
Board thickness0.012-0.12inch
Min. Board Size0.4*0.6inch
Min. Board Size16*22inch
Build Time2days – 5weeks
MaterialFCCL (adhesive)Shengyi SF305
FCCL (adhesiveness)Panasonic R-F775(ER)
Dupont Pyralux AP
CoverlayShengyi SF305C
Taiflex FHK 1025&1035
AdhesiveTaiflex BT
Shengyi SF302B
PI stiffenerTaiflex MHK
3M9077&6677&9458
NO FLOW PPVentec:VT-47N(TG170) & EM-285B (TG150)
CCLITEQ: IT180A; Shengyi S1141 & S1000-2
Other CCLArlon:85N; Rogers:RO4000series; Nelco:N4000-13series;
Ventec:vt901
OthersTolerance of board thickness(thickness>1.0mm)±10%
Tolerance of board thickness(thickness≤1.0mm)±0.1mm
Impedance control toleranceSingle ended:±5Ω(≤50Ω);±10%(>50Ω)
Differential Pairs: ±5Ω (≤50Ω);±10%(>50Ω)
HDI/
Min bow&twist0.75%(symmetrical), 2%(unsymmetrical)
Ecoobond width1.5±0.5mm (flex window width ≥ 5mm)
Inner layerMin line width/spacing (12/18um copper)3.5/3.5mil (3.2/3.2mil)
Min line width/spacing (35um copper)4.0/4.0mil (3.6/3.7mil)
Min line width/spacing (70um copper)6.0/6.5mil (5.5/6mil)
Annular ring (blind via)4mil
Max copper thickness2oz
Outer layerMin line width/spacing (18um copper)3.5/3.8mil (3.2/3.5mil)
Min line width/spacing (35um copper)4.0/4.3mil (3.5/3.8mil)
Min line width/spacing (70um copper)6.5/6mil (6/5.5mil)
Min line width/spacing (105um copper)10/13mil(9.5/12.5mil)
Min BGA pad size12mil (8mil for the electrical soft gold board)
Max finished copper thickness3OZ
DrillingBlind via/
Max buried via0.4mm
Aspect ratio (mechanical drill)10:01
Min distance between via and conductors6mil (≤6 layers)
9mil (7-11 layer)
12mil (≥12 layer)
Tolerance of non-plated holes±2mil (limited is +0/-2mil or +2mil/-0)
Solder maskSolder mask colorgreen,blue,red,matte green
and silk screenMin solder dam (copper ≤ 1oz)4mil(green,red and blue); 5mil(black and white)
Min solder dam (copper 2-4oz )8mil
Min clearance2.5mil (2.0mil)
Silk colorWhite, Yellow, black
Surface treatmentSurface treatmentHASL/LF, HASL, ENIG, ENEPIG, Electrolytic Nickel Gold, Soft gold, Hard gold, Immersion silver, and OSP
Mixed surface treatmentENIG+OSP, ENIG+G/F, Electrical gold+Gold fingers
Gold thickness (ENIG)0.05-0.10um
Nickel thickness (ENIG)3-8um
Gold thickness (ENEPIG)0.05-0.10um
Palladium thickness (ENEPIG)0.05-0.15um
Nick thickness (ENEPIG)3-8um
Hard gold thickness(leadless)0.1-1.5um
Hard gold thickness (including lead)0.1-4.0um
Electrolytic Nickel thickness≥3um
Electrolytic Gold thickness0.05-0.10um
Immersion silver thickness0.2-0.4um
OSP thickness0.1-0.3um
RoutingTolerance of board outline±6mil(exclude complicated board outline and cutout)

Here there’re many laminate material datasheets, they’re useful and helpful for you, please see them:

SUPPLIERPCB LAMINATETYPEMATERIAL DATASHEETTGTDDK(1MHZ)DK(1GHZ)DK(10GHZ)
KBKB-6160FR4DOWNLOAD1353054.35
KB-6160AFR4DOWNLOAD1353054.35
KB-6160CFR4DOWNLOAD1353144.7
KB-6150
KB-6150C
FR4DOWNLOAD1323054.6
KB-6164FR4DOWNLOAD1423304.8
KB-6164FFR4DOWNLOAD1453404.8
KB-6165FFR4DOWNLOAD1503464.8
KB-6167FFR4DOWNLOAD1703494.8
SHENGYIS1141FR4DOWNLOAD1353104.6
S1141KFFR4DOWNLOAD1403504.7
S1000FR4DOWNLOAD1553354.9
S1170FR4DOWNLOAD1703354.6
S1000-2FR4DOWNLOAD1703354.8
S1155FR4DOWNLOAD1353704.7
ITEQIT-158FR4DOWNLOAD1503404.6-4.8
IT-180FR4DOWNLOAD1803504.5-4.7
TUCTU-768FR4DOWNLOAD1803504.3-4.44.3
TU-872Modified EpoxyDOWNLOAD2003403.8-4.03.8
ROGERSRO 3003Cer/PTFEDOWNLOAD5003
RO 3010Cer/PTFEDOWNLOAD50010.2
RO 4003Hydrocarbon/CerDOWNLOAD>2804253.38
RO 4350BHydrocarbon/CerDOWNLOAD>2803903.48
RT/duroid 5880PTFE/GlassDOWNLOAD5002.2
ISOLAPolyclad 370HRFR4DOWNLOAD1703404.8-5.1
FR406-HRFR4DOWNLOAD1903253.913.863.81
FR408-HRFR4DOWNLOAD2003603.723.693.65
P96PolyimideDOWNLOAD2604163.783.73
HitachiMCL-BE- 67GModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD1403404.94.4
MCL-E-679FFR4DOWNLOAD1703504.2-4.44.3-4.5
MCL-LX-67YSpecial LaminateDOWNLOAD185-195325-3453.4-3.6
NelcoN4000-13Modified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403653.73.6
N4000-13EPModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403503.43.2
N4000-13SIModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403503.43.2
N4000-13EP SIModified EpoxyDOWNLOAD210-2403503.43.2
TaconicTLX-6PTFEDOWNLOAD2.65
TLX-7PTFEDOWNLOAD2.6
TLX-8PTFEDOWNLOAD2.55
TLX-9PTFEDOWNLOAD2.45
RF35PTFEDOWNLOAD<3153.53.5
TLC-27PTFEDOWNLOAD2.75
TLC-30PTFEDOWNLOAD3
TLC-32PTFEDOWNLOAD3.2
ArlonArlon 25NCerDOWNLOAD2603.38
Arlon 25FRCerDOWNLOAD2603.58
Arlon 33NPolymideDOWNLOAD>2503534
Arlon 35NPolymideDOWNLOAD>2503634.2
Arlon 85NPolymideDOWNLOAD2503874.2
StablcorST325DOWNLOADThermal conductivity:75w/m.k(with 1oz copper)
ST10DOWNLOADThermal conductivity:325w/m.k(with 1oz copper)
PanasonicR-1566WFR4DOWNLOAD1403304.954.74.65
VentecVT-901PolymideDOWNLOAD2503904.2-4.54.0-4.3
VT-90HPolymideDOWNLOAD2503904.2-4.54.0-4.3
Bergquistht-04503DOWNLOADThermal conductivity:2.2w/m.k(with 1oz copper)

Delivery

PCBMay offers flexible shipping methods for our customers, you may choose from one of the methods below.

1. DHL

DHL offers international express services in over 220 countries.
DHL partners with PCBMay and offers very competitive rates to customers of PCBMay.
It normally takes 3-7 business days for the package to be delivered around the world.

DHL Forwarder

2. UPS

UPS gets the facts and figures about the world’s largest package delivery company and one of the leading global providers of specialized transportation and logistics services.
It normally takes 3-7 business days to deliver a package to most of the addresses in the world.

UPS Forwarder

3. TNT

TNT has 56,000 employees in 61 countries.
It takes 4-9 business days to deliver the packages to the hands
of our customers.

TNT Forwarder

4. FedEx

FedEx offers delivery solutions for customers around the world.
It takes 4-7 business days to deliver the packages to the hands
of our customers.

Fedex Forwarder

5. Air, Sea/Air, and Sea

If your order is of large volume with PCBMay, you can also choose
to ship via air, sea/air combined, and sea when necessary.
Please contact your sales representative for shipping solutions.

Note: if you need others, please contact your sales representative for shipping solutions.

On our website you can use the following payment methods:

Telegraphic Transfer(TT): A telegraphic transfer (TT) is an electronic method of transferring funds utilized primarily for overseas wire transactions. It’s very convenient to transfer.

Bank/Wire transfer: To pay by wire transfer using your bank account, you need to visit your nearest bank branch with the wire transfer information. Your payment will be completed 3-5 business days after you have finished the money transfer.

Paypal: Pay easily, fast and secure with PayPal. many other credit and debit cards via PayPal.

Credit Card: You can pay with credit card: Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard, Maestro.

    • “I am very satisfied with your service. Your price is cheap enough compared to other PCB companies. The quality is very good and also the delivery time is in time for every order. When we ask you any questions about the material, design, or the status, I can receive the answer quickly, when there are mistakes or doubts about the design, your engineering team is always asking me before making the board.”

      Francisco Fábio, Designer from Spain
    • “We choose PCBMay because they can provide the whole service from electronic components sourcing, PCB design & layout, PCB production, and PCB assembly. We’re very appreciative of your great service and PCBMay can provide good communications, there’s no time difference. We can get order confirmation and quotation immediately.”

      Chris Stevenson, Purchase Manager from USA
    • “We have been working with PCBMay for more than 8 years and we like their website, they have updated it several times but now it looks very good. They always send the WIP(working in the process) to us every week and let us know the status of all orders. What’s more, PCBMay gives us the price matrix and we can place the order directly. We will continue working with you and thanks for all your support.”

      Andrea Perrucci, CEO from Germany

    Rigid-Flex PCB: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

    Flexible devices are becoming more popular as technology advances. Rigid-Flex PCBs have emerged as the go-to solution for complex three-dimensional assembly processes and advanced component surface mounting.

    Manufacturers prefer Rigid-Flex PCBs because of their adaptability. To get the most, you need to know a lot about the Rigid-Flex PCB. Are you interested in learning more?

     

    Rigid-Flex PCB

    Rigid-Flex PCB

    Rigid-Flex PCB has never been the subject of such an in-depth study as this. Every facet of these PCBs is addressed in this FAQ Guide. Let us get started now!

    What Is Rigid-Flex PCB?

    They are combined with stiff boards to create this hybrid product. Some layers of the manufacturing process include a flexible circuit that runs through the rigid boards, resembling a standard hardboard circuit design.

    The board designer will add plated through holes (PTH) that link stiff and flexible circuits as part of this process. This PCB was popular due to its intelligence, accuracy, and flexibility.

    Rigid-Flex PCBs simplify the electronic design by removing flexible cables, connections, and individual wiring. A Rigid-Flex boards circuitry is more tightly integrated into the board’s overall structure, which improves electrical performance.

    Engineers can expect substantially better serviceability and electrical performance because of the Rigid-Flex PCB’s internal electrical and mechanical connections.

    Rigid- Flex PCB

    Rigid-Flex PCB

    What Are Rigid-Flex PCB Specifications?

    Flexible PCBs are used in many complicated devices. The Rigid-Flex PCB combines a wide range of high-quality features. Let us take a deeper look at what these PCBs offer in terms of specs.

     

    FeatureSpecification
    Layers3-16 Layers
    MaterialsThe copper, FR-4, polyimide, adhesive
    Minimum track and gap0.075mm / 0.075mm
    Rigid PCB thickness0.6mm to 5mm
    Flexible PCB thickness0.05mm to 0.8mm
    Maximum dimensions457mm to 610mm
    Surface finishesENIG, Immersion silver, OSP, Immersion tin, LF HASL, Gold finger
    Minimum mechanical drill0.20mm

     

    What Are The Rigid-Flex PCB Materials?

    What is it about the rigid-flex PCB that makes it unique? Yes, it is the substance that makes the PCB popular among enthusiasts. Various constructions of rigid-flex boards exist. The materials for these PCBs are-

    Substrate

    Substrate Materials

    The most popular rigid-flex substance is woven fiberglass. A thick layer of epoxy resin coats this fiberglass.

    Nevertheless, epoxy-impregnated fiberglass is uncertain. It can not withstand abrupt and sustained shocks.

    Polyimide

    This material is chosen for its flexibility. It is solid and can withstand shocks and motions.

    Polyimide can also withstand heat. This makes it ideal for applications with temperature fluctuations.

    Polyester (PET)

    PET is favored for its electrical characteristics and flexibility. It resists chemicals and dampness. It may thus be employed in harsh industrial conditions.

    Using a suitable substrate ensures desired strength and longevity. It considers elements like temperature resistance and dimension stability while selecting a substrate.

    Coatings

    Cover Layers

    These are manufactured by adhering flexible films together. Cover layers are used in the manufacturing of Rigid-Flex PCBs. It protects the whole assembly.

    Second, it allows access to the circuitry. These incorporate more processed circuit pads. The third duty is to enhance the circuitry’s reliability and adaptability.

    Cover Coatings

    Cover lay is not always utilized. A thin liquid coating is put on the circuitry in this manner. It is acrylated epoxy. Other times it is acrylate polyurethane. The most frequent approach is screen printing. Thermal curing is common.

    Conductor Materials

    Copper is the most chosen manufacturing material for PCBs. In addition to being a conductor of electricity, it is also very workable. The technique uses two kinds of copper foil.

    Among them is electrodeposited copper foil. The second is copper foil rolled. These foils come in a variety of thicknesses and weights.

    Adhesives

    Adhesives are necessary for a PCB’s operation and longevity. Adhesives secure interconnections between conductivity materials and substrates.

    PCB adhesives

    PCB adhesives

    Polyimide Adhesives

    This adhesive’s temperature resilience makes it ideal for the job. It can withstand 500°C. Its intense heat tolerance makes it suitable for a variety of critical applications.

    These include military uses and power generating applications.

    Due to high thermal expansion tolerance, they are often utilized in multilayer circuits.

    Polyester Adhesives

    These adhesives are less expensive than polyimide adhesives. They are ideal for making basic stiff flex circuits.

    They also have weak ties. Polyester adhesives are likewise not heat resistant. They have recently been updated. This offers them thermal resistance. The change also promotes adaptability. This makes them safe in multilayer PCB assembly.

    Acrylic Adhesives

    These adhesives are comparatively superior. They have exceptional thermal stability and can resist both corrosion and chemicals. They are effortless to apply and are relatively cheaper. Combined with their availability, they are popular among manufacturers.

    Epoxies

    This may be the most widely used adhesive in rigid-flex circuit manufacturing. They can also withstand corrosion and hot and low temperatures.

    They are also exceedingly adaptable and bond stable. It has a little bit of polyester in it to make it more flexible.

    Insulators

    Polyimide films are the most often utilized insulators in Rigid-Flex PCBs. It is used on the base metal layer of flex circuits. Polyimide is also employed in multilayered circuits’ inner layers.

    What Are Significant Types Of Rigid-Flex PCB?

    There are various types of Rigid-Flex PCB for you to use. These are some of the types which can help you in your project-

    Double-Sided PCB

    The double-sided rigid-flex board is a double-sided version of the single-sided flex PCB with a copper conducting layer on either side.  These holes connect the layers. This is a standard flex design recognized for its simplicity. Double-sided rigid-flex PCB Stackups are lightweight and reproducible.

    Multi-Layer PCB

    Multi-layer flex circuits have more than two copper components. A typical circuit has up to ten conducting layers. PTH holes link multi-layer PCBs, much as double-sided flex circuit boards.

    This type of PCB is appropriate for applications that demand high-density connections and tight routing of wires. The PTH mounting technique improves solder joint reliability.

    HDI PCB

    High density interconnects (HDI) are rigid-flex boards that enable more design processes, layouts, and fabrication options. Each HDI has thick flex circuitry with micro vias.

    These aid in the production of compact but powerful PCBs with greater functionality. HDIs are noted for their superior electrical performance, increased IC usage, and enhanced PCB dependability.

    HDI Rigid-Flex PCB

    HDI Rigid-Flex PCB

    What Are The Rigid-Flex PCB Applications?

    Rigid-flex offers a wide range of applications. The following are the possibilities:

    Medical field

    Rigid-Flex PCBs are employed in medical wearables because of their tiny size. Pacemakers, handheld monitors, imaging equipment, wireless controllers, etc.

    Pacemaker PCB

    Pacemaker PCB

    Military Equipment

    Rigid-Flex PCBs have long been used in military equipment. This is due to the board’s dependability and tolerance to changing environmental conditions.

    Weapon guidance and communication systems are examples. Among other uses, they are utilized in tracking and monitoring.

    Aeronautics

    Like military equipment, aeronautical devices are subjected to extreme environmental conditions. They are susceptible since airline accidents are invariably tragic.

    Telecommunications

    The telecommunication sector also uses rigid-flex PCBs. This dependency is due to the boards’ heat resistance.  Applications include routers, servers, satellites, and handhelds.

    Auto industry

    Small devices benefit from these types of PCBs. Numerous little gadgets are fitted in automobiles. These include music players and LCD screens. PCBs are used in navigation and transmission controls.

    Manufacturing/industrial

    Many devices are made using Rigid-Flex PCBs. These include industrial air conditioning units and automated systems.  Industrial CCTV surveillance systems also employ PCBs.

    Appliances

    Many consumer appliances use Rigid-Flex PCBs. These include electric irons, lights, and washers. These PCBs are used in TV remote controls and UV water purifiers.

    How To Compare Rigid-Flex And Flex PCB?

    Most people associate a circuit board with a rigid PCB, often referred to as a PCB. Conductive rails and other features are laid on a non-conductive base to link electrical components.

    The non-conductive substrate of a rigid circuit board commonly incorporates glass, which strengthens and rigidifies the board. Circuit boards that are robust and have good heat resistance are ideal for supporting electronic components.

    However, although a non-conductive polyimide substrate is used for flexible PCBs, conductive traces are still present on the non-conductive substrate.

    Flexible circuits can resist vibration, distribute heat, and fold into numerous forms because of their base’s flexibility. Flexible boards are rapidly being utilized in new and smaller electronic designs because of the structural give they provide.

    Flexible PCB

    Flexible PCB

    What Are The Benefits Of Rigid-Flex PCB?

    So many benefits come with rigid-flexible PCBs. Among the many examples are the following:

    • The flexibility of rigid-flex circuit boards allows for the manufacturing of replacement boards for existing devices. Unlike designing a gadget based on the board’s specs.
    • These PCBs are lightweight due to their flexibility.
    • The rigid substrate helps the simplicity of these boards. This informs smaller packing.
    • They are compact and flexible to fit into tight spaces.
    • The absence of solder junctions and connectors increases the reliability of rigid-flex printed circuit boards. No contact crimps either. This function assures the board’s dependability and integrity.
    • The panels are assembled using polyimide. They can endure high temperatures because polyimide has exceptional thermal stability.
    • Rigid-flex boards can also tolerate various environmental conditions. They are also resistant to severe chemicals and lubricants.
    • The panels are designed to allow for component attachment on both sides.

    Compact Rigid Flex PCB

    Compact Rigid-Flex PCB

    What Are The Rigid-Flex PCB Design Methods?

    A rigid-flex circuit board is both a convenience and a necessity. For many applications, the rigid-flex PCB manufacturers can fit the board into tighter spaces by employing it because they are so compact.

    Installing a PCB would be very difficult, if not impossible, without flexibility. The Rigid-Flex PCB design guidelines are as follows-

    Keep the trace width and spacing as large as possible inside the flexible components. Make use of the trace width calculator.

    PCB Pads and Vias

    Your stiff flex PCB pads should have tie-downs or anchoring spurs. The anchoring spurs prevent the base layer and copper separation during installation. Filleted pads avoid areas of stress and fracture while flexing.

    Calculate the Bending Radius

    When bending stiff flex PCB, you should be precise with your estimates to prevent damage. Minimum bend radius required.

    Bending Area Design

    Avoid bending your board at the corners. Copper traces function best when positioned perpendicular to the circuit bending.

    Avoid inserting curved traces at rigid right angles and 45-degree corners. This may increase bending stress on copper traces.

    A severe board bend might generate cover coat creases.  Reduce the total width of the bend area to improve bend dependability.

    Plane

    If the design permits it, crosshatch the ground sections. This reduces weight and increases circuit flexibility.

    The size of the ground plane holes is governed by the shielding or impedance control needs. Consider the copper balance while mastering the continuous ground planes.

    Processing

    Dry your PCB (4 hours at 120°C) to remove any humidity collected by the polyimide. Within eight hours of curing, you can begin placing and soldering.

    PCB Curing Process

    PCB Curing Process

    What Is The UL 94 Rating Of A Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Many different materials and configurations are required to get UL certification for flexible-rigid PCBs.

    The UL standards take into account many dangers, including the extent of use, materials utilized, and manufacturing and processing techniques. Extinguishing fires and electrical safety are the primary goals for electrical equipment.

    The UL 94 of Rigid-Flex PCB accreditation is designed to safeguard electronic components from fire and electrical hazards. As long as the product is not exposed to too much heat, it will not ignite under the test conditions specified by the UL.

    UL-94 PCB

    UL-94 V0 PCB

    How Do You Make A Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Rigid-Flex PCB is complicated and it takes much time to manufacture. It entails various processes that must be executed precisely. An error in the board’s flexible components may significantly impact the final assembly’s efficiency and durability.

    Rigid-flex PCB manufacturing processes are-

    Preparation of Base Material

    Preparing/cleaning the laminate is the initial stage in board manufacture. The laminate containing a copper layer must be carefully cleaned before using other fabrication.

    Circuit Design

    Creating circuit designs is the next phase, followed by laminate preparation.

    Circuit Design Etching

    For best results, both laminate sides are etched simultaneously.

    Drilling

    Precision holes are made using high-speed drilling equipment. Manufacturers of rigid-flex circuit boards utilize laser drilling to generate tiny holes.

    Through-hole plating

    After drilling holes to specifications, they are chemically coated with copper. This creates electrical connections between layers.

    Coverlay or Covercoat

    Protects the circuit from severe weather, chemicals, and solvents.

    Cutting the Flex

    Hydraulic punching is often used to mass-produce Rigid-Flex PCBs.

    Electrical Testing and Verification

    The boards are tested electrically. Testing ensures the boards are working properly.

    What Are The Tests Of A Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Testing Rigid-Flex PCB ensures that the PCB is working properly. There are different methods available To test a PCB. Some of the industry Standard PCB testings are as follows-

    Tests for Isolation

    To do this, you must check that the requisite resistance exists between two different electrical connections.

    Tests for Continuity

    This is the process of ensuring that there are no open circuits between two electrical circuits.

    Nail Bed Test

    When testing a PCB with a bespoke array of spring-loaded pins, a fixture is needed to keep the PCB in place. Test spots on the board trace are pre-determined by the design team so that they may concurrently test many places on the board.

    Flying Probe Test

    Robotic probes attach to certain nets on the panel and conduct tests on them. There is no need for a bespoke fixture other than something to keep the board in place. Programming the probes for particular spots on the board is required.

    Flying Probe Test

    Flying Probe Test

    How To Remove Conformal Coating From The Rigid-Flex PCB Surface?

    Before deciding on a conformal coating removal process, you must first determine the utilized coating. There are numerous methods to identify the coating if you can not acquire the information from the original supplier that applied it.

    Conformal Coating Removal

    Conformal Coating Removal

    Once you have determined what kind of coating we are dealing with, the next step is to determine how to get it off. Keep in mind that certain methods of removing conformal coatings are more successful than others.

    Acrylic

    • Chemical Solvent
    • Grinding Process
    • Micro-blasting,

    Urethane

    • Micro-Blasting
    • Thermal Method

    Epoxy

    • Scraping Method
    • Grinding

    Thermal

    • Micro-Blasting
    • Silicone
    • Grinder and Scraper
    What Are The Dependable Design Software Of Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Designers are encouraged to create workable layouts for Rigid-Flex PCBs using the most appropriate tools. The rigid-flex boards are likely to be inefficient if the layouts are defective.

    There are various ECAD programs that you can use in the rigid-flex design. You can efficiently create the board with the help of these programs.

    They will also assist you in improving the designs. You will be able to customize the look of your boards this way.

    As a result, ECAD software provides a high-quality board in the lowest possible time. The 3D option in this program is critical for creating bends and other delicate components with confidence.

    Additionally, ECAD software may change the diameter of traces. For both stiff and flexible features, this is accomplished flexibly.

    An effective design is guaranteed by any rigid-flex design program that has these characteristics.

    PCB Design Software

    PCB Design Software

    How Do You Repair A Damaged Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Repaired PCB

    Repaired PCB

    How Do You Optimize Rigid-Flex PCB Cost?

    A stiff flex PCB is typically seven times more costly than a comparable rigid PCB owing to raw materials and poorer overall yields, so they are more expensive.

    It is possible to further reduce the cost of the PCB by adapting materials such that layers, thicknesses, and total prices are reduced to the minimum.  PCB design cost will be influenced by several factors, including

    Maintaining a minimal number of overall layers.

    Making your design more straightforward means that you will have to use fewer prepreg layers to bind your board together.

    Minimize the number of layers that may be bent

    Rigid laminates are less expensive, whereas flexible laminates are more costly. The board’s total cost may be reduced by reducing the number of flexible circuit layers. Your total package cost is reduced by reducing the number of flexible circuitry layers on your design.

    Put a rigid board at the end of all of the flexible arms

    Flex cable terminations are often desired by rigid flex designers, often for mating to the ZIF connector or other device. Hardboard is not desired in these areas since it is too thick and inflexible to work with

    What Are The Steps Of The Rigid-Flex PCB Assembly Process?

    Now that the rigid-flex PCB is finished, it is time to add components. The steps below explain how stiff flex PCBs are assembled.

    Stenciling using Solder Paste

    It involves applying solder paste to the board. A thin stencil covers the Rigid-Flex PCB.

    Stainless steel stencil required. This allows you to solder paste the PCB’s designated portions. These are the pieces that will hold the components.

    Pick and Place

    A pick and place device is used after successfully applying solder paste to the rigid-flex board.  Using robotic equipment, surface components are mounted onto the PCB.

    Machines are favored because of their dependability and precision. This replaces the old hand choosing and putting method. The machines are also faster and never get tired.

    SMT Pick And Place Machine

    SMT Pick And Place Machine

    Quality Assurance

    It should be tested once the surface mount elements are soldered to the PCB. During reflow, the rigid-flex board might slide, causing connection concerns. This may cause electrical shorts.

    Component Insertion

    Many rigid-flex PCBs have parts that are not SMD. These are PTH plated components. This helps send messages throughout the board. This prevents solder paste application.

    Final Examination and Testing

    To test the board’s functioning. The PCB is placed through simulations that mirror its intended function. The rigid-flex board carries power and simulated signals.

    Is There Any Drawback Of A Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Rigid-flex PCBs may not always have benefits. Some of the drawbacks of these PCBs include:

    • These PCBs are made using two distinct substrates. Rigid and flexible substrates are examples of this. This adds complexity and length to the manufacturing.
    • The manufacturing procedure for printed circuit boards is more involved than for other circuit boards. Adequate and appropriate software is needed for this. Because of this, it increases the cost of manufacturing.
    • These PCBs also need a lot of materials and labor. This is due to the PCB’s sensitivity and the inherent variances in rigid and flexible substrates.
    How To Specify Control Impedance In High-Quality Rigid-Flex PCB?

    Designers often have to define quantities for a few distinct factors in order to determine impedance:

    • The desired impedance
    • Trace the height
    • Width of the trace
    • The layer or layers of the impedance trace
    • Traces with regulated spacing between copper components.

    PCB Control Impedance

    PCB Control Impedance

    What Are The Features Of A Trustworthy Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer?

    Here are some things to look for in a Rigid-Flex PCB manufacturer.

    Industry Knowledge and Skills

    Choose a manufacturer that offers the PCBs you need. Not all PCB makers are equal.

    Certifications / Quality Assurance

    When selecting a PCB manufacturer, consider quality.

    Delivered on Time

    In many circumstances, on-time delivery is a quality. To be safe, choose a PCB business that has a proven track record of quoting and delivering on schedule.

    Cost

    PCB cost is determined by various variables.

    Source

    Foreign supplies are usually cheaper but have additional considerations. Lead times, shipping expenses, customs, and communication issues.

    A domestic supplier may be more costly, but you may benefit from shorter lead times, lower shipping costs, and the option to visit the supplier.

    PCB Technology

    PCB technology is an important price indicator.

    Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer

    Rigid-Flex PCB Manufacturer

    Conclusion

    Rigid-Flex PCB is a widespread kind of printed circuit board. They have to put in the time and effort to make things correctly. Rigid-Flex PCB assembly and testing need extensive training and expertise.

    Since 2008, PCBMay has been producing high-quality Rigid-Flex PCBs in China. All of our PCBs are made to the highest quality standards. You may call us at any moment if you need a quotation or any other assistance.

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