Why do we need stiffeners in a Printed Circuit Board?
stiffeners in a Printed Circuit Board
A circuit board stiffener is a rigid structure added to specific areas of a flexible PCB to provide mechanical support. Stiffeners can be attached to the board by thermal bonding or pressure-sensitive adhesives. Properly applied, they enhance flex PCB reliability and durability. This guide explores the use of stiffeners in flex circuit designs, including how they are positioned on the board and their different functions.
A flex PCB is subject to considerable stress during manufacture, assembly, installation, and everyday use. Stiffeners counteract this stress, preventing damage and failure in critical areas. They also facilitate effective heat distribution and dissipation, which improves the board’s functionality.
Stiffeners are also used in a number of applications for specialized or sensitive components that require extra protection. circuit board stiffener can be made from a variety of materials, including polyimide, FR-4, and metals such as stainless steel and aluminum. Choosing the right material for your design depends on your requirements and environmental conditions.
Why do we need stiffeners in a Printed Circuit Board?
Using stiffeners in a flex PCB helps to protect the copper from damage, and is particularly important in thin layers. It is important to use the right thickness of stiffener for your application, to make sure it can handle the stresses and strains of handling and bending. In addition, it is essential to ensure that the stiffener does not cover any plated holes on the circuit board. This would prevent the plating from fracturing during bending, which can cause intermittent open circuits.
Adding stiffeners to the ends of the flex circuit can help to reduce bending, which in turn will extend the life of the component. Stiffeners can also be added to allow for the insertion of zero-insertion force (ZIF) connectors, which may be difficult or impossible to insert without stiffeners.
Another important use of a stiffener is to increase the rigidity of a flex circuit in the area where components are mounted. This will prevent the flex circuit from twisting around these areas and potentially damaging the soldered joints. Stiffeners can be attached to a flex PCB by thermal or pressure-sensitive bonding methods, with each method providing distinct advantages and disadvantages.
The type of stiffener you choose should be compatible with the chemistry and temperature of your environment. For example, you should avoid using a copper stiffener in an environment that can become extremely hot, as this could damage the conductive material. You should also choose a material that is highly resistant to chemical solvents, acids, and bases, as these will damage the surface of your flex PCB.
Adding a stiffener can significantly improve the performance of your flexible PCB. Whether you are mounting PTH components or simply need to control the bend areas of your circuit, they can help you achieve the best possible results in your project. Make sure to consult with your flex PCB manufacturer to learn about the different options available and find the best stiffener for your needs.