PCB Stiffeners Contribute to Shock Resistance

PCB stiffeners are used to add rigidity to areas of a flexible circuit board that need it, especially when plated through hole components are mounted. Without the added support, a sudden flex can rip away copper from the surface of the circuit board or break through the solder joints. Stiffeners not only prevent these problems, they also contribute to shock resistance and improve the overall performance of the circuit board.

A flex or rigid-flex PCB has a malleable base material, but there are always areas of the design that require more rigidity than the base material can provide. For this reason, it’s crucial to use a flex pcb stiffener or rigid-flex PCB stiffener in areas that need extra rigidity during manufacturing and assembly.

Stiffeners can be attached to the surface of a flex or rigid-flex PCB using either pressure sensitive adhesives or thermal bonding. Regardless of how the stiffener is attached, it should be strategically placed to ensure that the rigidity it provides is not compromised. It’s also important to consider the material of the stiffener as it can affect the flex characteristics of the circuit board.

Depending on the project requirements, there are several different types of PCB stiffeners available. The most common are polyimide (PI) and FR4 stiffeners, while aluminum and stainless steel stiffeners are usually used for projects that require increased rigidity or heat dissipation.

How Do PCB Stiffeners Contribute to Shock Resistance?

When selecting a PCB stiffener, it’s important to look for the right thickness and material to fit the application. The stiffener should be thin enough to allow the circuit board to flex, but not so thin that it’s susceptible to damage or degrade over time. In addition, the stiffener should be lightweight to minimize stress on the solder joint and connectors.

There are also several ways to attach the stiffener to the circuit board, depending on the application. For example, if the stiffener is being used in conjunction with a plated-through-hole component, it’s often best to attach it on the same side as the component so that access can be easily gained to the solder pads.

Choosing a company that offers high-quality, diverse PCB stiffener products is essential. Check out the manufacturer’s quality management system certifications and industry experience to determine if they are well-equipped to meet your specific needs. The best manufacturers can offer a wide range of materials to accommodate your needs and create a PCB stiffener that will help you achieve your design goals. Moreover, they should be able to produce stiffeners quickly and efficiently to keep your production line running smoothly. So, be sure to check out our selection of PCB stiffeners and find the right one for your application!

Despite the advantages of customization, it’s essential to consider the potential trade-offs, such as increased cost and lead time associated with bespoke manufacturing processes. Additionally, close collaboration between design engineers and manufacturing partners is crucial to ensure that the custom stiffeners meet the required specifications and quality standards.