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FPC itself is thin and flexible, but in some electronic product applications, it requires higher rigidity and support function, so FPC Stiffener is needed to meet it. Stiffener refers to a process of adding rigid materials to specific areas of the flexible printed circuit board (FPC) to improve its mechanical strength and stability.
1.Increase rigidity:
FPC is relatively soft and easy to bend or deform. Stiffener can enhance its mechanical strength and make it resistant to bending in specific areas.
2.Protect key parts:
Stiffener is usually used in connectors, gold fingers, chip mounting areas and other areas that are susceptible to force or require stable support to prevent damage caused by bending, stretching or external stress.
3.Easy to assemble:
Stiffener can provide a more stable structure, making it easier to align and fix the flex board during assembly, reducing assembly problems caused by errors.
4.Improve durability:
Under vibration, high temperature or harsh environment, Stiffener can effectively improve the durability and reliability of the flex board and extend the life of electronic product.
5.Heat dissipation assistance:
Some metal Stiffener (such as aluminum) can help dissipate heat and improve circuit reliability.
FR4:
Features: Strong rigidity, excellent mechanical properties, but will reduce the flexibility of the FPC.
Application: Mostly used in Through hole areas or areas that require high rigidity, not suitable for areas that are frequently need to be plugged in and out.
PI(Polyimide):
Features: Lightweight, flexible, suitable for applications requiring flexibility.
Application: Commonly used in the gold finger plug-in area, with strict requirements on thickness and tolerance.
Aluminum:
Features: high rigidity, high flatness, not easy to deform, good heat dissipation, but heavy weight
Application: Commonly used in areas such as the back of the chip that require heat dissipation and stable support, or interface parts that require impact resistance.
By selecting appropriate reinforcement materials and processes, the mechanical and functional requirements of different application scenarios can be met while ensuring the flexibility of the FPC soft board.If you have any doubts to choose Stiffener material for your flexible PCB,Contact Xinfeng Huihe Electronic Technology Co.,Ltd,you will get the best advice for your PCB.
