How can Flexible PCBs be Beneficial?
Various electronic devices have become more prominent in our daily lifestyle and these devices range from mobile phones to computers. Printed Circuit Boards are commonly used in most of these devices as most of these electronics cannot function without it. There are a few types of PCBs and they each offer their own advantages. Flexible circuit boards are one of the most common and there are numerous benefits of Flexible PCBs.
Here are some of the main benefits of flexible printed circuit boards:
Flexibility
The main benefit of flexible circuit boards is their elastic nature and their ability to bend. Due to this, they can be manipulated in various ways to fit around edges, folds, and creases. The flexibility of the board also means that it is more reliable and durable than regular PCBs as it can reduce the impact of vibrations and very little wiring is required on the board. Minimal wiring eliminates the need for interface connections such as solder joints, contact crimps, and connectors.
Reduction in Weight and Space
Not only can flexible printed circuit boards provide greater design freedom, but it can also offer better space usage and weight efficiency compared to other solutions. Flexible printed circuit boards are thin and light which enables great reductions in weight and space. For smaller devices, these flexible boards can be folded, creased and positioned into small areas which enable miniaturisation of devices. This makes flexible circuit boards much more suitable for small devices as they can fit where rigid boards cannot.
Suitable for Harsh Environments
Flexible circuit boards can be made with a variety of resistant materials that can withstand the harsh environment. These materials may be waterproof, shockproof, moisture proof or even corrosion resistant. As such, these flexible boards are extensively used in military and medical applications due to their tough and resistant qualities. The natural flexibility of the board also allows for better shock absorption and impact resistance.
Better Thermal Management
Flexible circuit boards are built with polyimide and this provides excellent thermal stability which allows the board to withstand extreme heat. This also means that the improved thermals make this board a better base for surface mounting and thermal expansion and contraction is less likely to occur. The flexible board can also dissipate heat faster than other solutions which increases its thermal efficiency.
Reduced Costs
Flexible circuit boards can help reduce the assembly costs through a variety of ways. The polyimide material of the PCB is thin and light which means that it requires less space. The requirement of less space means that the final assembly packaging size and the cost of material requirements. As flexible boards eliminate the need to route wires to solder joints and connectors, this further reduces assembly costs as fewer components are needed. With fewer components on the board and fewer wires, less time can be spent on testing and reworking which can improve productivity and efficiency.
Contact Clarydon for Flexible PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services
Clarydon Electronic Services has a wealth of expertise in the design manufacture and supply of flexible PCBs. If you require flex printed circuit board manufacturing or assembly, please get in touch with one of our PCB specialists.
Call us on 01902 606 000 or you can email us at [email protected].