Flexible PCBs are made of Polyimide or a transparent polyester film. Also known as flex circuits or flex prints, they are best for high temperature and high-density applications. These PCBs can take any desired shape. Moreover, they can flex while working without getting damaged.
PCBWay provides high-quality flexible PCBs at an affordable price. Being flexible, they provide all the benefits of rigid PCBs.
TYPES OF FLEXIBLE PCBs
Based on requirements and operating conditions, PCBWay manufactures different types of Flex PCBs.
Single-sided flexible PCBs.
It consists of a single conductor layer. This conductive layer rests on a flexible dielectric film. The components are connected only from one side of the PCB.
Double-sided flexible PCBs.
It consists of two-conductor layers on either side of a dielectric layer. Hence, giving the option to connect the components on either side of the PCB. This substrate provides the benefit of connecting intersects easily.
Multi-layer flexible PCBs.
It consists of three or more conductive layers. And these layers are separated using a dielectric. The thickness of the lamination is generally less in the area of bending. The irregular lamination provides higher flexibility to PCB.
Rigid- flexible PCBs.
It is a hybrid form that contains both rigid and Flex PCBs. It gives a higher component density as compared to others. And hence, these are a popular choice for daily commercial products.
ADVANTAGES OF FLEXIBLE PCBs
- Reliable.
Flex PCBs require fewer interconnections. Which, in turn, reduces contact crimps and solder joints. It reduces the chances of PCB failure. Thus, improving reliability.
- Saves area.
Due to their tight bend capability, they require less space than rigid PCB boards. A Flex PCB fits in 10% of the area of a rigid PCB. This benefit finds Flex PCBs most suitable for military, medical and aerospace applications.
- Saves cost.
As Flex PCBs faces fewer circuit failures. They also require less maintenance. So, in the long run, Flex PCBs are cheaper than rigid PCBs.
Now, let’s look at a project made on flexible PCB, ordered from PCBWay.
FLEXIBLE PCB ACTUATOR
It consists of a rectangular flex-PCB, ordered from PCBWay. A controller varies the magnetic field of the PCB. So, when a magnet comes close to the PCB, it responds by flexing. The PCB has twelve delta-connected coils.
Working
It involves the interaction of magnetic fields of PCB and permanent magnet. At the first instant, the magnet attracts the PCB. While in the next, it repels it. If the time between these two instants is made small, the PCB appears to vibrate.
PCB DETAILS
It’s a double-sided PCB with a gold-finish. It is 0.13 mm thick and has excellent resistance to chemicals and UV radiation. The heat dissipation capacity is better and contains three through holes at the end of the PCB. The quality of the PCB is fantastic, which is visible in the image below.
**For more details on the above-discussed project, read Flexible PCB Actuator.
To order your first high-quality flexible PCB, visit PCBWay.com right now as their yearly-end big sale is finally here. And they are offering a 15% discount on Flexible PCBs. So hurry up and place your order to avail that nice discount!
To have more information about how you can order through PCBWay and their process, you can read High quality and low-cost PCBs at your doorstep through PCBWay!
Flex PCBs Manufactured at PCBWay
PCBWay provides the best quality flex PCBs at a reasonable price. The table below gives a better view of the PCB fabrication in PCBWay.
| FEATURES | CAPABILITY |
| Number of layers | 1-8 layer |
| Build Time | 3-5 days |
| Polyimide base material | Polyimide flex |
| FPC thickness | 0.08-0.4mm |
| Min. track/ spacing | >=0.06mm |
| Min. hole size (diameter) | >=0.35mm |
| Coverlay (Flex part) | yellow, white, black |
| Silkscreen color | white, black |
| Surface finish | Immersion gold, OSP, Immersion silver, Immersion tin |
| Finished Copper | 0.5-2oz |