Flexible Printed Circuit Manufacturers Over Rigid Ones
For many years, the shape of a piece of electronics equipment was largely dictated by the rigid PCB it was housed inside. However, as flexible printed circuit manufacturers have evolved and improved their manufacturing capabilities, it has become possible to build a PCB that can bend, fold, and conform to nearly any shape, size or thickness. This flexibility increases design possibilities and reduces product assembly and handling costs by integrating all interconnect systems into one piece of electronic hardware.
Flex PCBs are made from a special polymer, Polyimide, that bonds with copper in a much more reliable manner than traditional adhesives. This bonding process also allows for a much thinner board, which improves reliability and decreases weight in the finished product. Depending on the application, a flexible circuit can also feature a coverlay film, similar to a solder mask, that helps protect the copper and minimize the risk of damage during use. Lastly, if a portion of the board needs to be rigid, manufacturers can laminate a stiffener to it that prevents signals from traveling over unneeded circuit layers.
Another benefit of a flexible printed circuit manufacturers is its durability in harsh environments. Rigid PCBs are not as durable against vibration or extreme temperatures, while a flexible circuit can be designed to withstand these conditions. This makes a flexible circuit ideal for industrial sensors, which are frequently used in remote locations and need to function well in harsh conditions.
Why Choose Flexible Printed Circuit Manufacturers Over Rigid Ones
When choosing a flex circuit manufacturer, it is important to consider their ability to fabricate both multi-layer and double-sided flex PCBs. A top-tier flex circuit manufacturer should have the capacity to manufacture both types and should be able to recommend which one would be best suited for your unique needs.
The cost of a flexible PCB can be higher than that of a rigid one. This is due to the high one-time initial cost of developing the circuit and prototypes, which are needed to get the production process started. This can be offset by the long-term cost savings that come from using a flex circuit instead of a rigid one in your final product design.
In addition, the assembly of a rigid PCB is more time-consuming than that of a flex circuit. This is because there are more steps required to connect components to a rigid PCB, including adding connectors and cables. A flex circuit, on the other hand, can be completed more quickly because there are no extra connections to add.
Choosing a flex circuit manufacturer that can deliver the highest quality boards with rapid turnaround is essential. Sierra Circuits offers a wide range of single-layer, double-sided, and multi-layer flex and rigid-flex PCBs manufactured and assembled right here in the United States. To learn more about how we can help with your next project, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll be happy to discuss your unique requirements and the benefits of a flex circuit. We’ll even do an electrical test for you to ensure your circuit works perfectly!
