What are Rigid-Flex Circuit Boards?


As the name implies, a Rigid-Flex PCB is a hybrid of a Flex PCB and a Rigid PCB. The combination of the two types of boards utilises the benefits each one provides, integrating the versatility of the flexible board with the robustness of the rigid board. Rigid-flex printed circuit boards are used in more complex mechanical designs, eliminating flexible cables and wiring and replacing it with integrated circuits.



Rigid-Flex PCBs, by definition, are a combination of rigid part(s) joined by interconnecting flex areas where the flex material is used across the entire PCB area.

The rigid parts are where there is no bending requirement. Again, PTHs take connections from layer to layer as required. Rigid-flex may also employ other technologies as required eg. HDI. Unlike the cost-effective flex PCBs, Rigid-Flex PCBs can be a bit more costly due to their intricate design.

Rigid-flex PCB design can be used to eliminate or greatly reduce requirements for bulky and costly cable harnesses, in turn taking out costs and reducing assembly time. Like the pure flexible PCBs, a high volume of rigid-flex PCBs are used in aviation and space applications – and also in automotive and test equipment.