Rigid PCB Vs Flex PCB: What Is The Difference?

FlexrigidPCB manufacturer learned there are three classifications of PCBs namely Rigid, Flex, and Rigid-Flexible PCBs.   This article provides a clear explanation of the fundamental difference between a Rigid PCB and a Flex PCB.

PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) use discrete wiring to connect electrical components and create a functional and complete device.   A simple PCB can simply consist of a couple of layers or sheets of copper integrated circuits, but PCBs are most likely to possess many layers of circuits.   These layers of copper circuitry are required by the PCB designer in “routing” every circuitry that exists between the various components – where several layers of circuits may not be enough to complete the design of the circuitry and make all the required connections.

Rigid PCB VS FLEIBLE PCB
While all Printed Circuit Boards serve similar basic functions as the substrate used for electronics components, the materials made use of In the construction and design of these PCBs are what makes them different.   PCBs are designed for specific and suitable applications.   There are three classifications of PCBs namely Rigid, Flex, and Rigid-Flexible PCBs.   This article provides a clear explanation of the fundamental difference between a Rigid PCB and a Flex PCB.

Difference between Rigid PCB and Flex PCB?

Rigid PCB vs Flex PCB: What Is The Difference?
The most prominent difference between a flex PCB and a Rigid PCB can be easily deduced from their respective names: A Rigid PCB is not flexible, whereas a flex PCB can be shaped or bent to fit into a given system.   Flex circuits when correctly designed can be flexed also for several cycles repeatedly with no failure.   The increased flexibility of flex PCBs comes typically at a greater cost, however, they are important for applications that required limited space, such as medical devices, consumer electronics, automotive and space applications

Rigid PCBs are common, especially as a result of their lower cost relative to flex PCBs.   In traditional electronics like consumer electronics with a greater availability of space, manufacturers can be economical by making use of Rigid PCBs.   However, flex PCBs are starting to take a larger part of the market share from non-flexible or rigid PCBs as a result of their adaptability and among several advantages like:

Flexibility: Flex PCBs can be easily twisted, bent, and even folded to fit into the end or finished application.   This gives the manufacturer the flexibility of having the circuitry fitted into the end device, instead of the endpoint device being designed around the circuitry.   For instance, flex circuits are perfect for wearable devices, foldable mobile phones, and cameras.   Rigid PCBs are hard and don’t offer such flexibility required in flex circuits applications.

Connectivity: Flex circuits allow a better connectivity between various electronic components, circuit boards, and user interfaces in the packaging of electronics.   Flex PCBs can also create connectivity in applications (dynamic flexible applications) where the flex circuit is required to flex continually over the device’s life cycle.   These types of flex circuits are widely used in laptops PCs, display connectivity, and foldable electronics.

Minimal Weight: Circuit boards with minimal weight produce an end product that is lighter.   In present-day electronics market, this is essential because small, light-weighted devices are preferable to heavier electronic devices by electronics designers and consumers.   This feature makes flex circuits to be perfect for drones and unmanned vehicles.

Durability: Although rigid Printed circuit boards are generally stronger and thicker, flex printed circuit boards absorb vibrations and shocks better and effectively compared to rigid printed circuit boards.   This makes flex PCBs more reliable with a long-term shelf life and functionality.   And are extensively used in missile guidance systems, satellites, weapons, medical electronics, and various applications that require great environmental viability.

Heat Resistant: Rigid printed circuit boards are likely to be damaged from heat, radiation, or chemicals;   however, FPC are more resistant to heat and other damaging environmental conditions.   This is the reason why flex PCBs are currently and widely used in automotive electronics.