Flexible PCBs (Flex)

The demand for flexible PCBs is increasing in all business segments with especially strong demands from medical, defense and industrial markets. Since the volumes normally are quite small for these segments, NCAB works with a number of HMLV (high-mix, low-volume) factories that fit the technology and volume requirement.

What are the available structures for flexible circuit boards?
There are numerous, different structures available. The more common ones are defined below:
Single sided flex (IPC-6013 type 1) Coverlay (polyimide + adhesive) bonded onto an adhesiveless single sided FPC core. With or without stiffeners.
Double sided flex (IPC-6013 type 2) Coverlay bonded onto both sided of an adhesiveless double-sided FPC core (two conductive layers) with plated through holes. With or without stiffeners.
Multilayer flex (IPC-6013 type 3) Coverlay bonded on both sides of an adhesiveless construction containing three or more conductive layers with plated through holes. With or without stiffener. Capability is 4L.

See more examples in our FAQ

Please contact your local NCAB Group company if you need further information or assistance, we are always happy to help you.

Feature	NCAB´s technical specification
Number of layers	1 – 6L
Technology highlights	Mainly polyimide materials, flex PCB’s are necessary when motion of the PCB is needed, when 3-D interconnections are necessary (i.e. replacing cables and connectors) or when these are both combined due to limited available space.
Materials	Polyimide, Polyester
Profile method	Laser cutting, punching, rout
Copper weights (finished)	18μm – 70μm
Minimum track and gap	0.075mm / 0.075mm
PCB thickness	0.05mm – 0.80mm
Maximum dimensions	450mm x 610mm
Surface finishes available	OSP, ENIG, Immersion tin, Electrolytic gold, Gold fingers
Minimum mechanical drill	0.15mm
Minimum laser drill	0.10mm standard, 0.075mm advanced

Download our PCB design guidelines

To prevent getting it wrong from the start, we have put together our design guidelines, to use as a checklist.

Multilayer PCB, HDI PCB, Ultra HDI PCB, Flex / Rigid-Flex PCBs, Semi-Flex PCB, Copper coin and Stackups and Impedances

PCB Design guidelines