Flexible PCBs for Sale: How to Select the Best FCB Seller

If you’re looking for flexible PCBs for sale, you certainly are not alone.

Today, flex PCBs are the backbone of the modern electronics industry, and for good reason.

These devices have unique designs and provide more flexibility and versatility than your standard rigid board.

Thus, they have several applications ranging from devices in the aerospace industry to medical devices and just about all modern consumer electronic devices.

Factors to Consider When Buying Flex Boards

When buying flex PCBs, here are some factors which, if you keep in mind, you’re likely to make the right choice of flex boards:

Understand the Benefits

Before purchasing a flex PCB, ask yourself: “Do I fully understand its primary benefits?”

Because if you do, then you can fully utilize the device.

Some benefits include increased flexibility, reduced weight, slim features, enhanced reliability, and improved signal integrity.

Stick to the Guidelines

To ensure that you secure a practical and productive flex board, follow the design guidelines set out by the industry’s standards to the best of your ability.

For example, there are standards about minimum bend radius, sharp angles, proper spacing between traces, and stiffener support.

Select the Right Flex PCB Material

Another vital consideration is if they designed the board using the right materials.

And the reason this is important is because it will affect the board’s reliability and performance.

Usually, that means considering factors like bend radius, temperature range, dielectric constant, and chemical and moisture resistance.

Consider the Manufacturing Process

Now a flex board undergoes a manufacturing process quite different from conventional rigid PCBs.

For this reason, you must consider this aspect when making your purchase.

Usually, that means understanding the board’s photolithography, lamination, etching, and assembly.

Doing this will allow you to maximize the board fully.

Understand the Application Requirements

Generally, different flex PCBs have unique application requirements.

For example, you want to use the board in an automobile part.

And the requirements for automobile devices differ greatly from those of, say, a keyboard or medical device.

See, both devices operate under very different temperature ranges and can withstand different amounts of mechanical stress.

(Caption: FCB with small components fitted in a curved surface)

(Caption: FCB on the inside of keyboard membrane)

Proper Route Tracing

Usually, part of a PCB comprises a network of wiring, copper fuses, and insulation that connect the different components, vias, and other parts of the board.

And these are the traces in a PCB design.

Now proper trace routing is necessary to ensure the reliability and signal integrity of a PCB.

And to achieve this, the manufacturer must employ proper routing techniques.

For example, routine in a straight line, correct spacing, and avoiding crossing traces.

Consider the Manufacturer

Last but not least, consider the board’s manufacturer.

Because, like with most products, when you purchase a flex board from a reputable manufacturer, you’re more likely to get a good product.

Such a manufacturer is experienced in the flex PCB you want.

For example, have they built many of those layers if it’s an 8 Layer flexible PCB you want?

On the other hand, if they mostly deal with rigid boards, you’re better off with a board from a different manufacturer.

Additionally, a good manufacturer uses quality materials plus the most appropriate.

They can also provide insight and recommendations when needed.

Flex Boards For Sale: Factors to Consider When Choosing a Flex Board Seller

The following are factors you should consider when selecting a flex board seller:

Fabrication Equipment

It’s advisable that when picking a flex PCB seller, you ensure that the company you’re dealing with employs technologies and equipment that are up-to-date because that’s the best way to accurately predict the requirements for materials, thermal coefficients, and board movement.

That way, you’re assured of high-quality flex boards.

And it’s no wonder most reputable companies invest heavily in these two aspects (technology and equipment).

So check out their drilling equipment, surface finishing tools, place board testers, and imaging machines.

Certification

The seller you select should have the necessary certification for making flex boards.

For example, there’s the UL 94 V-0 fire resistance certificate.

With such certification, you can rest assured that your purchase boards meet high-quality standards.

Quality

Another factor to consider when choosing a seller is if they can assure the board’s quality.

Undoubtedly, this is especially important considering that flex boards are a significant investment and should therefore be able to meet your needs.

For example, do they have a Quality Management System (QMS) in place?

Such a system proves that the seller has processes for monitoring, inspecting, identifying, and fixing any quality issues.

Also, it shows that they use the appropriate equipment and materials by quality standards.

Now one way to determine if they have a QMS system is if they have ISO 9001 certification.

So at the bare minimum, ask for that. Other examples of certification you can check for as proof of quality include ISO 13485, A-600, and AS9100.

Cost

Generally, flex PCBs are not cheap.

Still, finding a seller who can offer a price that balances cost and quality is good.

That means considering materials, especially the base and solder, and the technologies they employ.

These are the two factors that significantly affect the price of a flex PCB.

Remember that where they source the materials matters as far as the cost goes.

For example, do they import raw materials or source them domestically?

Often, the latter costs more.

Also, some technologies cost more, like a high layer count (more than 14 layers).

Capability and Experience

Also, look for a capable and experienced seller who can provide all the necessary information about the flex board.

With such details, you’re in a better position to evaluate the product’s durability and functionality.

This is one sure and easy way to ensure you get a durable and reliable circuit board.

(Caption: Flex PCB with photosensitive sensor)

Testing

Another thing, can the seller assure you that their product has undergone all the necessary testing.

And do they employ the latest technologies and techniques in their testing?

But don’t just take their word for it. Get some proof. For example, there’s the IPC test for flexibility.

Testing is one way the seller or manufacturer can confirm the product’s integrity.

FAQs

How Much Does Flex PCB Cost?

Flex PCBs have varying complexity, reliability, and quality.

First, it depends on the materials, quality, and properties.

Then, there’s the number of layers (2 Layers, 4 Layers, 8 Layers, etc.) and the manufacturing cost.

All these make the price differ vastly.

In other words, the cost varies from board to board.

That said, a typical board can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to as much as $1,000 and even more.

Why Are Flex PCBs So Expensive?

See, making flex PCBs entails using different kinds of materials, such as a polyimide substrate.

Undoubtedly, these cost more. Then also, there’s the number of layers, test requirements, and accuracy complexities.

What Is the Disadvantage of Flex PCB?

Undoubtedly, flex PCBs have capabilities that are lacking in standard rigid boards.

But you might say that there’s a caveat to these enhanced capabilities, the cost of manufacturing shoots up.

Can a PCB Be Flexible?

Yes, by changing the way you make it. Engineers employ flexible materials such as polyimide substrates to make a PCB flexible.

Also, they make the copper thinner. That way, the PCB can bend or flex.

Conclusion

Are you looking for quality flex PCBs for sale?

Just ensure the seller you settle on is the right one.

Thankfully, you now know how to go about it.

Because now you know the factors to consider when buying flex PCBs and what to look for in a seller.

So now you can get the best seller and product for your flex board needs.

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