FPC flexible board is an indispensable and important component in many precision electronic products, mainly used to provide electrical connections for products. With its lightweight, flexible, and bendable characteristics, FPC plays a crucial role in electronic products. So, how thin can FPC be made? Next, let’s take a look at the typical thickness of FPC and the impact of its components.
The determining factors of FPC thickness:
As is well known, the thickness of traditional PCBs is mainly determined by the substrate, while the thickness of FPC is more complex. It is determined by the thickness of the substrate, copper foil, cover film, and reinforcement material. Generally speaking, according to different application requirements, the thickness of FPC is usually between 0.05mm and 0.4mm, and the specific thickness depends on the following main components:
1. Substrate (board):
There are usually two types of substrates for FPC: polyimide (PI) and polyester (PET), with thicknesses ranging from 0.0125mm to 0.1mm, with 0.025mm and 0.05mm being the most common thicknesses.
2. Copper foil (conductive layer):
Copper foil is the conductive layer in FPC, with a thickness range typically between 12 µ m and 70 µ m, while the conventional thickness is 35 µ m (about 1oz). The thickness of copper foil directly affects the conductivity of the circuit and the overall thickness of the board.
3. Cover film:
FPC cover film is used to protect circuits from oxidation, moisture, and mechanical damage. The thickness of the cover film is relatively thin and has little impact on the overall thickness of the FPC, generally between * * 12.5 µ m~50 µ m * *, with the most common being 25 µ m.
4. Reinforcing materials:
FPC reinforcement material is the thickest and strongest part of FPC, used to enhance the mechanical strength and durability of flexible circuit boards. Common reinforcement materials include FR4, PI, and stainless steel. The thickness of reinforcement materials is usually between 0.1mm and 1mm * *, sometimes even thicker according to demand.
In summary, the thickness of FPC depends on the superposition of multiple components, and the thickness of these components varies depending on specific application requirements. Usually, the overall thickness range of FPC is between 0.05mm and 0.4mm, meeting the high requirements of various precision equipment for portability and functionality. By selecting the appropriate thickness of substrate, copper foil, cover film, and reinforcement material, customized design for different electronic products can be achieved, thereby maximizing the performance and reliability of FPC.