Reliability of Rigid Flex Circuit Boards
Rigid flex circuit boards are used in a wide variety of industrial, commercial and aerospace applications. They often need to withstand harsh environments and other stressors, including vibration. This makes it necessary to test the reliability of these PCBs. However, testing a rigid flex board can be challenging because the process is highly application- and environment-specific.
One way to test the rigid flex board is to subject it to an environmental simulation, such as thermal cycling. Another method is to perform a stress/strain test. This involves placing a strain gauge on the flex and measuring the mechanical stress that occurs during operation. This helps to identify potential weak points in the design and correct them.
In addition to these tests, the reliability of a rigid flex circuit boards is also impacted by the materials that are used and how they are configured. Choosing the right materials is critical to maintaining signal integrity and limiting electromagnetic interference (EMI). The use of flex circuit boards in high-vibration environments is especially demanding, requiring special design and manufacturing considerations like reinforcement and selecting the proper material for rigid and flexible areas.
Testing the Reliability of Rigid Flex Circuit Boards
The flex portion of a rigid flex PCB is typically designed using very thin layers of copper and an epoxy or polyimide core. These thin layers allow for minutely narrow circuit traces that make for higher device population density and reduced package size and weight. This is a key reason why rigid flex circuits are used in a wide range of aeronautic and space applications.
Designing a rigid flex PCB requires careful attention to the layout and placement of components to maximize performance and minimize cost. These designs should be reviewed and re-evaluated by experienced engineers who can assist with optimizing the design for the desired application. Keeping the board as small and simple as possible, while still meeting all of its required functions, will help reduce production costs and time-to-market.
As with all electronic assembly, proper engineering and quality control are critical to a rigid flex circuit’s reliability. Using a rigid-flex circuit board manufacturer that is knowledgeable about the technology and has the proper equipment will help reduce the chance of errors in production that could impact reliability.
Rigid flex circuits are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to meet the rigorous reliability requirements of a wide range of high-tech applications. While there are challenges in designing and assembling these complex products, the benefits of doing so can be significant, especially when it comes to improving product functionality and performance.
If you’re looking for a company that can provide rapid, high-quality rigid flex circuits, Sierra Circuits is here to help. Visit our main flex PCB page to find out more about our services, or contact us today to get started. We’ll work with you to design, manufacture, and assemble your flex or rigid-flex circuit board for the best results. With our dedicated team of experts on your side, you’ll be able to take your product from concept to completion faster than ever.
