What is a Rigid-Flex PCB?
A Rigid-Flex PCB is a hybrid circuit board combining elements of both flexible circuit boards and rigid circuit boards, with an end result of a board that is able to be folded or continuously flexed and is normally formed into a flexed shape or curve during the manufacturing process.
The flexible layers of a Rigid-Flex PCB are buried within the board and penetrate through the rigid sections of the PCB.
Rigid-Flex design
The designs of Rigid-Flex PCBs are a little more complex as these boards are designed in 3D, which allows the board to be folded or twisted to create the desired shape for the product. Designing a board in 3D means they can offer greater spatial efficiency and can subsequently be used in special instances where space and weight reduction may be necessary, such as in medical devices.
Rigid-Flex PCBs are usually thinner than other boards, meaning it’s a great option for any thin or light packaging needs your products may have. With thin copper layers and adhesive-less laminates, it’s a great small, thin and light solution for your circuit design needs.
Flex to install & dynamic flex PCBs
There are two common types of Rigid-Flex PCBs; flex to install and dynamic flex.
- Flex to install: this is the most common of the two and applies when a board only folds once, either when the device or product is assembled or dismantled, but is otherwise sturdy and stable throughout
- Dynamic flex: a dynamic flex board will be used when a product is required to fold and bend when in use, meaning they are highly durable and can last through a thousand flex cycles
Whilst the design might be a touch more complex, and the process slightly more time consuming than the usual printed circuit board, they are an investment worth making with their versatile and durable nature.
Rigid-Flex benefits
There are several benefits to a Rigid-Flex PCB which could make it a perfect choice for your product, including:
- Reduced space requirement through 3D ability
- Shock resistance: Rigid-Flex PCBs can withstand high-stress environments
- Increased reliability: due to the reduced need for solder joints or connectors, Rigid-Flex PCBs are a brilliant choice for products where a connector or cable failure could be detrimental
- Rigid-Flex PCBs also have a simpler assembly process as they have fewer cables and connectors being used throughout
If your product requires a board that needs to be folded when assembled or you’re after something highly durable and long-lasting then a Rigid-Flex PCB might be the right fit for you.
KKPCB conducts research on special processing technologies such as ordinary double-sided boards, thick copper circuit boards, high-frequency circuit boards, HDI circuit boards, rigid-flexible circuit boards, FPC flexible boards, buried blind hole circuit boards, and IC carrier boards. Provides PCB design, PCB layout, PCB prototyping and PCB assembly services.
