Rigid-Flex PCBs

PCB Portfolio

Rigid flex PCBs

Rigid flex PCBs is a complicated product that demands a lot of interaction between our and your technicians. Like other complex products, early discussions between NCAB and the designer is necessary to optimize the design for manufacturability and to optimize costs. We support rigid flex pcbs both locally in Europe and US as well as offshore for higher volume requirements.

Available structures for rigid flex PCBs

There are numerous, different structures available. The more common ones are defined below:

Traditional rigid flex construction (IPC-6013 type 4) Multilayer rigid and flexible circuit combination containing three or more layers with plated through holes. Capability is 22L with 10L flex layers.
Asymmetrical rigid flex construction, where the FPC is situated on the outer layer of the rigid construction. Containing three or more layers with plated through holes.
Multilayer rigid flex construction with buried / blind via (microvia) as part of the rigid construction. 2 layers of microvia are achievable. Construction may also include two rigid structures as part of a homogeneous build. Capability is 2+n+2 HDI structure.

In our FAQ about PCBs (printed circuit boards) you can read more about the structures and see their technical illustrations.

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

Rigid flex PCBs Technical specification

FeatureNCAB´s technical specification for Rigid flex PCBs
Number of layers4-16 layers
Technology highlightsMixed materials including RF and high speed, standard FR-4, polyimide flex. Adhesiveless or adhesive based polyimide flex constructions, with cover coat or flexible solder mask materials.
Bending performanceBased on the specific design, the bend performance can range from a basic 90 °bend to fit to a full dynamic flex with 360° range of motion in the flex tail that will withstand continuous cycles throughout the product life.
Bend featuresBend radius controls the flexibility of the flex portion of the board. The thinner the material the lower the bend radius and the more flexible the flex section.
MaterialsRA copper, HTE copper, FR-4, polyimide, adhesive
Copper weights (finished)½ ounce, 1 ounce, 2 ounce, 3 ounce
Minimum track and gap0.075mm / 0.075mm
PCB thickness0.4mm to 3mm
PCB thickness in flex section0.05mm to 0.8mm
Maxmimum dimensions457mm to 610mm
Surface finishes availableENIG, OSP Immersion tin, Immersion silver
Minimum mechanical drill0.20mm
Minimum laser drill0.10mm standard, 0.075mm advanced

Download our PCB (printed circuit boards) design guidelines

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