Rigid-Flex PCBs
Rigid-flex printed circuit boards (PCBs) occupy a middle ground between rigid and flexible boards, offering the best of both - flexibility and structural stability. Considering the shrinking size of electronic devices, the flexibility of boards is a must. On the other hand, rigid boards offer structural and dimensional stability, which is also essential. As an experienced and well-known rigid-flex PCB manufacturer, Twisted Traces specializes in designing, fabricating, and assembling quick-turn rigid-flex circuit boards.
These innovative, customized solutions combine the best of rigid and flexible technologies and are manufactured, with rapid turnaround times. With a market presence spanning over three decades, our custom rigid-flex PCB assemblies have found applications across mission-critical applications ranging from defense and aerospace to medical, automotive, and industrial automation.
Our Quick-turn Rigid-Flex PCB Capabilities
Our rigid-flex boards enable us to create compact systems, eliminating board-to-board connectors, which helps save space and improve signal quality. Our rigid-flex PCB fabrication capabilities enable us to deliver the highest-quality quick-turn rigid-flex PCBs to our clients.
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Parameters |
Capabilities |
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Material Used |
FR4 and high-frequency materials such as polyimide and Rogers RO3000 series
Copper for conductive traces and insulation |
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Layers |
1-20 and beyond |
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Minimum Track Width/Spacing |
Width: 4 mils (0.1 mm) depending on the design
Spacing: 4 mils (0.1 mm) for compact layout |
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Maximum Board Size |
30ʺ x 24ʺ (depends on the layers) |
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Lowest Drill Size |
0.2 mm (8 mils) for high-density designs |
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Copper Thickness |
1 oz/ft² (35 µm) (can be offered up to 3oz/ft² (105 µm) |
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Vias |
Through-hole vias (THV), blind vias, and buried vias |
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Via Size |
0.2mm in diameter |
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Finished Hole Size |
0.2 mm |
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Soldermask Swell |
±0.1 mm |
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Silkscreen Width |
0.15 mm (6 mils) |
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Aspect Ratio |
10:1 |
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Solder Mask Color |
Green, White, Blue, Black, Red, Yellow |
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Legend Color |
White, Black, Yellow |
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Min Drilling Hole Diameter |
0.2 mm (8 mils) |
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Min Width of Cutout (NPTH) |
0.8mm |
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NPTH Hole Size Tolerance |
±0.1 mm |
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Min Width of Slot Hole (PTH) |
0.4 mm (16 mils) |
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Quality Inspection |
Visual
Electrical-continuity and functional testing
X-ray inspection
Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) |
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File Formats |
Gerber RS-274D
RS-274X
AutoCAD DXF
DWG. |
Advantages of Using Our Rigid-Flex PCBs
Twisted Traces delivers compact and lightweight rigid-flex PCBs engineered for precision and reliability across industries. These are tailored to fit in compact spaces and get the required bending angles. Here are some advantages of using our rigid-flex boards to meet your PCB assembly requirements.
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Space savings and flexibility: The combination of rigid and flexible forms compact and lightweight boards for fitment in tight and constrained spaces. They allow multidimensional layouts and minimize the need for connectors and cables. The use of flexible substrates offers bendability to the extent of conforming to the shape of the device, such as in wearables. This reduces the overall size of the system and device.
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Increased durability and resistance: Rigid-flex PCBs offer improved shock and vibration resistance, depending on the materials used. Since there are minimal or no fragile joints, the boards become durable, offering structural and dimensional stability alongside flexibility. Our boards are also resistant to moisture, temperature extremes, and environmental stress, making them suitable for mission-critical applications and harsh environments.
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Improved thermal performance: We use materials with excellent thermal management properties. Heat dissipation is absolutely crucial as rigid-flex boards are widely used in high-frequency and high-speed applications. Our board materials and the specific placement of components on the board help create proper heat sinks and prevent sensitive components from being affected.
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Rapid prototyping: Our rapid prototyping capabilities enable you to test your designs faster and make modifications more quickly. This expedites the development process, reducing the time to market for your products.
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Flexible Order Quantities: Whether you need a small batch for testing or a large-scale order, we accept orders for both low- and high-volume PCB production, based on your requirements.
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Quick Turnaround Times: Our efficient production processes and speed enable us to offer quick turnaround times. This is achieved by considering both custom requirements and accuracy, enabling you to meet deadlines and keep your project on track.
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Instant Free Quotes: Receive an instant, tailored quote for your PCB production needs, so you can plan your production timeline and budget with complete transparency.
Applications of Rigid-Flex PCBs
Here are some application areas of our quick-turn rigid-flex PCBs.
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Aerospace and defense: Rigid-flex boards are used in various segments of this crucial sector. They find applications in satellite systems, radar systems, aircraft control, missile control, and more.
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Medical and healthcare: In this sector, rigid-flex boards are used in varied segments ranging from implants to health trackers and wearables. These include wearable sensors, ECG monitors, pacemakers, MRI and ultrasound machines, and handheld diagnostic equipment.
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Industrial automation: They are used in robotic arms and control systems in industrial machines and equipment. These boards are also used in assembly lines for filling, packaging, and other industrial processes. They also find applications in smart devices, IIoT, and compact monitoring and control systems.
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Automotive: Rigid-flex boards find application in in-car electronics, infotainment systems, safety systems, reverse and parking systems, autonomous driving vehicles, temperature and motion sensing systems, and electric vehicles.
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Consumer electronics: Rigid-flex boards are used in various electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, cameras, and more.
Rigid-flex PCBs can help you meet the most complex and demanding requirements. At
Twisted Traces, we specialize in delivering high-quality, precision-engineered rigid-flex PCBs that meet your specific needs and ensure optimal performance. We are reliable partners and can cater to the most complex design requirements, offering you ample custom options.
For any further information you require regarding our rigid-flex PCB assembly capabilities, you can call us at
(630)345-5400, or email us your questions at
quotes@twistedtraces.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the lead time for quick-turn rigid-flex PCBs?
We offer expedited rigid-flex PCB services with shorter lead times, typically 5 to 7 business days. The standard lead time for our rigid-flex PCBs is usually 10 to 15 business days, depending on the design complexity and manufacturing process.
What are the design considerations for rigid-flex PCBs?
Here are some design considerations.
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Flexibility: Design the flexible portion of the PCB with sufficient space for bending and movement, ensuring the traces are not stressed.
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Layer Stack-Up: Determine the number of layers for both rigid and flexible sections, taking into account the mechanical properties required.
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Component Placement: Pay attention to where components are placed, especially in flexible areas, to avoid mechanical stress.
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Thermal Management: Proper heat dissipation is essential, especially in high-power designs.
Are rigid-flex PCBs environmentally friendly?
Rigid-flex PCBs can be manufactured using environmentally friendly materials and processes. We comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) standards, ensuring that the PCBs are free from hazardous materials, including lead and cadmium. Additionally, the compact and integrated design reduces the number of components, contributing to lower resource consumption.