Manufacturing overview
Flexible circuits connect electrical requirements with a bendable structure. Define the flex material, construction, coverlay and any local reinforcement needed by the design.
Mark bend and reinforced areas
Identify intended bend regions and areas requiring stiffeners. Explain the mechanical use of the circuit and include dimensioned drawings so local construction requirements can be reviewed.
Confirm the complete layer system
Material, copper, coverlay and reinforcement work together. State specified materials and permitted alternatives; do not leave substitutions or local thickness requirements undefined.
Specify a flex circuit in its installed condition
A flexible circuit must fit both its flat manufacturing drawing and its final assembly. Distinguish a circuit bent during installation from one expected to move repeatedly. Polyimide, copper, coverlay and reinforcement work as a system; a thin base film alone does not establish bend performance.
| Flex input | Information for review |
|---|---|
| Bend requirement | Location, direction, radius and static or repeated movement. |
| Layer system | Polyimide, copper and adhesive or adhesiveless construction. |
| Coverlay | Openings and coverage around pads and bend regions. |
| Reinforcement | Stiffener material, thickness, location and connector support. |
What to include in your quotation request
Provide the fabrication package and drawing at one revision. Distinguish fixed requirements from items open to engineering proposals. Include quantity and the required ship or arrival date; the material, construction and verification scope must be reviewed before the delivery plan is confirmed.
- Fabrication artwork, drill data and mechanical outline.
- Stackup, material grades and finished copper requirements.
- Surface finish, critical tolerances and special features.
- Required inspection, test conditions and documentation.
- Quantity, project stage, destination and date requirement.
Questions, answered
Before your next build
What should I include in the quotation package?
Send fabrication and drill data, a drawing, stackup or construction details, quantity, material and finish requirements, and the required ship or arrival date.
What is the difference between coverlay and a stiffener?
Coverlay forms part of the protective flexible construction. A stiffener adds local mechanical support, for example near a connector. Specify both independently.
Can every flex PCB bend repeatedly?
No. Repeated movement must be evaluated as a design requirement with the complete material construction and bend conditions.