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
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.
Rigid-Flex PCB Series
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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)
Rigid-Flex PCB By Copper (5)
Rigid-Flex PCB By Colors (5)
Rigid-Flex PCB Advantages




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.


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.
Your Super 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
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
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
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.
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.
There are many industrial control applications for rigid-flex PCB, such as Programmable controllers PLC, touch screens, industrial computers, contactors, thermal relays, inverters, etc.
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
- Production Facility
- PCB Capabilities
- PCB Materials
- Shipping Methods
- Payment Methods
- Send Us Inquiry
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:
Feature | Capability | |||||||
Number of Layers | 3 – 18layers | |||||||
Order Quantity | 1pc – 10000+pcs | |||||||
Board thickness | 0.012-0.12inch | |||||||
Min. Board Size | 0.4*0.6inch | |||||||
Min. Board Size | 16*22inch | |||||||
Build Time | 2days – 5weeks | |||||||
Material | FCCL (adhesive) | Shengyi SF305 | ||||||
FCCL (adhesiveness) | Panasonic R-F775(ER) | |||||||
Dupont Pyralux AP | ||||||||
Coverlay | Shengyi SF305C | |||||||
Taiflex FHK 1025&1035 | ||||||||
Adhesive | Taiflex BT | |||||||
Shengyi SF302B | ||||||||
PI stiffener | Taiflex MHK | |||||||
3M | 9077&6677&9458 | |||||||
NO FLOW PP | Ventec:VT-47N(TG170) & EM-285B (TG150) | |||||||
CCL | ITEQ: IT180A; Shengyi S1141 & S1000-2 | |||||||
Other CCL | Arlon:85N; Rogers:RO4000series; Nelco:N4000-13series; | |||||||
Ventec:vt901 | ||||||||
Others | Tolerance of board thickness(thickness>1.0mm) | ±10% | ||||||
Tolerance of board thickness(thickness≤1.0mm) | ±0.1mm | |||||||
Impedance control tolerance | Single ended:±5Ω(≤50Ω);±10%(>50Ω) | |||||||
Differential Pairs: ±5Ω (≤50Ω);±10%(>50Ω) | ||||||||
HDI | / | |||||||
Min bow&twist | 0.75%(symmetrical), 2%(unsymmetrical) | |||||||
Ecoobond width | 1.5±0.5mm (flex window width ≥ 5mm) | |||||||
Inner layer | Min 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 thickness | 2oz | |||||||
Outer layer | Min 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 size | 12mil (8mil for the electrical soft gold board) | |||||||
Max finished copper thickness | 3OZ | |||||||
Drilling | Blind via | / | ||||||
Max buried via | 0.4mm | |||||||
Aspect ratio (mechanical drill) | 10:01 | |||||||
Min distance between via and conductors | 6mil (≤6 layers) | |||||||
9mil (7-11 layer) | ||||||||
12mil (≥12 layer) | ||||||||
Tolerance of non-plated holes | ±2mil (limited is +0/-2mil or +2mil/-0) | |||||||
Solder mask | Solder mask color | green,blue,red,matte green | ||||||
and silk screen | Min solder dam (copper ≤ 1oz) | 4mil(green,red and blue); 5mil(black and white) | ||||||
Min solder dam (copper 2-4oz ) | 8mil | |||||||
Min clearance | 2.5mil (2.0mil) | |||||||
Silk color | White, Yellow, black | |||||||
Surface treatment | Surface treatment | HASL/LF, HASL, ENIG, ENEPIG, Electrolytic Nickel Gold, Soft gold, Hard gold, Immersion silver, and OSP | ||||||
Mixed surface treatment | ENIG+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 thickness | 0.05-0.10um | |||||||
Immersion silver thickness | 0.2-0.4um | |||||||
OSP thickness | 0.1-0.3um | |||||||
Routing | Tolerance 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:
SUPPLIER | PCB LAMINATE | TYPE | MATERIAL DATASHEET | TG | TD | DK(1MHZ) | DK(1GHZ) | DK(10GHZ) |
KB | KB-6160 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 135 | 305 | 4.35 | – | – |
KB-6160A | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 135 | 305 | 4.35 | – | – | |
KB-6160C | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 135 | 314 | 4.7 | – | – | |
KB-6150 KB-6150C | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 132 | 305 | 4.6 | – | – | |
KB-6164 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 142 | 330 | 4.8 | – | – | |
KB-6164F | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 145 | 340 | 4.8 | – | – | |
KB-6165F | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 150 | 346 | 4.8 | – | – | |
KB-6167F | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 170 | 349 | 4.8 | – | – | |
SHENGYI | S1141 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 135 | 310 | 4.6 | – | – |
S1141KF | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 140 | 350 | 4.7 | – | – | |
S1000 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 155 | 335 | 4.9 | – | – | |
S1170 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 170 | 335 | 4.6 | – | – | |
S1000-2 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 170 | 335 | 4.8 | – | – | |
S1155 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 135 | 370 | 4.7 | – | – | |
ITEQ | IT-158 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 150 | 340 | 4.6-4.8 | – | – |
IT-180 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 180 | 350 | 4.5-4.7 | – | – | |
TUC | TU-768 | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 180 | 350 | – | 4.3-4.4 | 4.3 |
TU-872 | Modified Epoxy | DOWNLOAD | 200 | 340 | – | 3.8-4.0 | 3.8 | |
ROGERS | RO 3003 | Cer/PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | 500 | – | – | 3 |
RO 3010 | Cer/PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | 500 | – | – | 10.2 | |
RO 4003 | Hydrocarbon/Cer | DOWNLOAD | >280 | 425 | – | – | 3.38 | |
RO 4350B | Hydrocarbon/Cer | DOWNLOAD | >280 | 390 | – | – | 3.48 | |
RT/duroid 5880 | PTFE/Glass | DOWNLOAD | – | 500 | – | – | 2.2 | |
ISOLA | Polyclad 370HR | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 170 | 340 | 4.8-5.1 | – | – |
FR406-HR | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 190 | 325 | 3.91 | 3.86 | 3.81 | |
FR408-HR | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 200 | 360 | 3.72 | 3.69 | 3.65 | |
P96 | Polyimide | DOWNLOAD | 260 | 416 | – | 3.78 | 3.73 | |
Hitachi | MCL-BE- 67G | Modified Epoxy | DOWNLOAD | 140 | 340 | 4.9 | 4.4 | – |
MCL-E-679F | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 170 | 350 | 4.2-4.4 | 4.3-4.5 | – | |
MCL-LX-67Y | Special Laminate | DOWNLOAD | 185-195 | 325-345 | – | 3.4-3.6 | – | |
Nelco | N4000-13 | Modified Epoxy | DOWNLOAD | 210-240 | 365 | – | 3.7 | 3.6 |
N4000-13EP | Modified Epoxy | DOWNLOAD | 210-240 | 350 | – | 3.4 | 3.2 | |
N4000-13SI | Modified Epoxy | DOWNLOAD | 210-240 | 350 | – | 3.4 | 3.2 | |
N4000-13EP SI | Modified Epoxy | DOWNLOAD | 210-240 | 350 | – | 3.4 | 3.2 | |
Taconic | TLX-6 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 2.65 |
TLX-7 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 2.6 | |
TLX-8 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 2.55 | |
TLX-9 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 2.45 | |
RF35 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | <315 | – | 3.5 | – | 3.5 | |
TLC-27 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 2.75 | |
TLC-30 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 3 | |
TLC-32 | PTFE | DOWNLOAD | – | – | – | – | 3.2 | |
Arlon | Arlon 25N | Cer | DOWNLOAD | 260 | – | – | – | 3.38 |
Arlon 25FR | Cer | DOWNLOAD | 260 | – | – | – | 3.58 | |
Arlon 33N | Polymide | DOWNLOAD | >250 | 353 | 4 | – | – | |
Arlon 35N | Polymide | DOWNLOAD | >250 | 363 | 4.2 | – | – | |
Arlon 85N | Polymide | DOWNLOAD | 250 | 387 | 4.2 | – | – | |
Stablcor | ST325 | – | DOWNLOAD | Thermal conductivity:75w/m.k(with 1oz copper) | ||||
ST10 | – | DOWNLOAD | Thermal conductivity:325w/m.k(with 1oz copper) | |||||
Panasonic | R-1566W | FR4 | DOWNLOAD | 140 | 330 | 4.95 | 4.7 | 4.65 |
Ventec | VT-901 | Polymide | DOWNLOAD | 250 | 390 | 4.2-4.5 | 4.0-4.3 | – |
VT-90H | Polymide | DOWNLOAD | 250 | 390 | 4.2-4.5 | 4.0-4.3 | – | |
Bergquist | ht-04503 | – | DOWNLOAD | Thermal 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Related Other PCBs
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 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!
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
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.
Feature | Specification |
Layers | 3-16 Layers |
Materials | The copper, FR-4, polyimide, adhesive |
Minimum track and gap | 0.075mm / 0.075mm |
Rigid PCB thickness | 0.6mm to 5mm |
Flexible PCB thickness | 0.05mm to 0.8mm |
Maximum dimensions | 457mm to 610mm |
Surface finishes | ENIG, Immersion silver, OSP, Immersion tin, LF HASL, Gold finger |
Minimum mechanical drill | 0.20mm |
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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 V0 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.
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
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
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
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
Repaired PCB
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
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
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.
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.
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
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 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.