iso icon.png

ISO9001 ISO13485
ISO14001

iatf 16950.png

IATF
16949

ipc icon.png

IPC-A-610H International
Certification

aoi inspection.png

Fully Automated
AOI Inspection

rohs
ul
enig lcd connector flex circuit board

Our Flex PCB Manufacturer
Capabilities

WellPCB manufactures flex PCBs with layer counts from 1 to 6, with ultimate builds extending to 10 layers for specialized multi-layer flex circuits.

Fabrication uses polyimide base materials such as Shengyi SF305, Songxia RF-775, and Taihong PI, supporting dielectric stability, thermal resistance, and fine-line processing.

Production tolerances include a minimum 3 mil trace/space, 0.1 mm laser drill, and 0.15 mm mechanical drill, with pad-to-pad clearance down to 4 mils (3 mils in high-density designs).

Finished board thickness ranges from 0.05 mm to 0.5 mm (up to 0.8 mm for advanced builds), with finger width tolerance ≥0.1 mm (≥0.05 mm for precision contacts).

SpecificationDetails
FPC Base Material (Adhesive)Shengyi SF302: PI=0.5 mil, 1 mil, 2 mil; Cu=0.5 oz, 1 oz
Shengyi SF305: PI=0.5 mil, 1 mil, 2 mil; Cu=0.33 oz, 0.5 oz, 1 oz
FPC Base Material (Adhesiveless)Songxia RF-775/777: PI=1 mil, 2 mil, 3 mil; Cu=0.5 oz, 1 oz
(Ultimate: PI=1 mil, 2 mil, 3 mil; Cu=2 oz)
Xinyang: PI=1 mil, 2 mil; Cu=0.33 oz, 0.5 oz, 1 oz
Taihong: PI=1 mil, 2 mil; Cu=0.33 oz, 0.5 oz, 1 oz
Dubang AP: PI=1 mil, 2 mil, 3 mil, 4 mil; Cu=0.5 oz, 1 oz
(Ultimate: PI=1 mil, 2 mil, 3 mil, 4 mil; Cu=2 oz)
Layer1-6 Layers (Ultimate: 7-10 Layers)
Thickness of Finished Product (Flex part, no stiffener)0.05-0.5 mm (Ultimate: 0.5-0.8 mm)
Size of Finished Products (Min)5 mm × 10 mm (Bridgeless); 10 mm × 10 mm (Bridge)
Ultimate: 4 mm × 8 mm (Bridgeless); 8 mm × 8 mm (Bridge)
Size of Finished Products (Max)9 inch × 14 inch
Ultimate: 9 inch × 23 inch (PI ≥ 1 mil)
Impedance ToleranceSingle-Ended: ±5Ω (≤50Ω), ±10% (>50Ω)
Ultimate: Single-Ended: ±3Ω (≤50Ω), ±8% (>50Ω)
Impedance ToleranceDifferential: ±5Ω (≤50Ω), ±10% (>50Ω)
Ultimate: Differential: ±4Ω (≤50Ω), ±8% (>50Ω)
Tolerance of Finger Width±0.1 mm (Ultimate: ±0.05 mm)
Min Distance to the Edge of Finger8 mil (Ultimate: 6 mil)
Min Distance between Pads4 mil (Ultimate: 3 mil)
Minimum Laser Hole0.1 mm
Minimum PTH0.3 mm
Min NPTH Tolerance±2 mil (Ultimate: +0, -2 mil or +2 mil, -0)
Solder Bridge Min Width (bottom copper < 2OZ)4 mil (Green), 8 mil
Solder Bridge Min Width (bottom copper 2–4OZ)6 mil, 8 mil
Overlay ColourWhite, Yellow (printed character: White)
Type of Surface TreatmentOSP HASL, Lead-free HASL, Immersion gold, Hard gold, Immersion silver, OSP
Selective Surface TreatmentENIG+OSP, ENIG+G/F

We integrate FR4 stiffeners from 0.075 to 3.2 mm and polyimide stiffeners from 0.025 to 0.225 mm, with adhesive widths controlled to 1.5 ± 0.5 mm and minimum copper clearance of 0.3 mm.

On high-cycle flex designs, these are commonly used for ZIF connectors, edge contacts, and mechanical reinforcement zones.

Stiffener design and placement follow IPC-2223 guidelines for mechanical reinforcement and pad stability in dynamic flex zones.

We offer ENIG, Lead-Free HASL, OSP, Immersion Tin, and Immersion Silver finishes for all flex PCB builds. Surface treatments are applied to exposed copper for solderability, oxidation resistance, and electrical contact durability.

ENIG is preferred for high-density designs and gold finger edge connections; OSP is ideal for prototype runs and flat SMT pads. Selective finish combinations such as ENIG + OSP are available for mixed-performance zones.

Peelable mask can be combined with coverlay for selective solder areas, ZIF connectors, or rework zones. All finishes conform to IPC-455x series standards for surface coatings and meet RoHS-compliant lead-free assembly requirements.

All flexible printed circuit boards can be manufactured with impedance control:

  • Single-ended: ± 5 Ω (≤50 Ω), ±10% (>50 Ω)
  • Advanced builds: ± 3 Ω (≤50 Ω), ±8% (>50 Ω)

These tolerances (as precise as ±3 Ω) are validated through TDR testing and reflect industry-leading control for RF, sensor, and high-speed signal designs. For controlled impedance in RF, medical, and sensor applications.

All flex PCBs undergo AOI, Flying Probe, ICT, and FCT to ensure circuit continuity and electrical performance.

Structural reliability is validated through X-ray inspection, micro-section analysis, peel strength testing, and thermal shock simulation.

We also perform impedance testing on controlled line widths to confirm ±3 Ω or ±5% targets for matched-line designs.

WellPCB provides full flex PCB assembly, including SMT, through-hole, and mixed technology builds.

We support BGA (down to 0.2 mm pitch), QFP (0.15 mm), and fine-pitch component placement with ±30 μm accuracy at CPK ≥1.

Assembly capabilities include conformal coating, box builds, and component sourcing from Mouser, Digi-Key, Arrow, and Avnet. Board sizes range from 50 × 50 mm to 610 × 508 mm.

We manufacture RF, coaxial, ribbon, overmolded, and waterproof cable assemblies for flex integration.

Custom wire harnesses are available for automotive, medical, aerospace, and robotic applications.

All cable assemblies are thoroughly tested and can be delivered as part of complete electromechanical builds or standalone units.

Why Choose WellPCB?

WellPCB delivers technically driven flex PCB manufacturing with full in-house control, certified processes, and materials qualified for demanding environmental and electrical performance. Our capabilities are built around precision, consistency, and application-specific engineering.

metal core pcbs.png

One-Stop Manufacturing & Assembly

flexible pcbs.png

Engineering-Driven DFM Support

heavy copper pcbs.png

Advanced Material Options

ceramic pcbs.png

Certified Manufacturing Capabilities

hdi pcbs.png

Heavy Copper & Power Flex Expertise

high frequency pcbs.png

Rapid Turnaround with Global Reach

What is a Flex PCB?

A flex PCB is a printed circuit board built on a flexible base material such as polyimide, allowing the circuit to bend, fold, or twist while maintaining electrical function. These boards are engineered for dynamic mechanical conditions and tight enclosures where traditional rigid formats are unsuitable.

They support dense PCB design, reduced weight, and continuous flexing. Flexible circuit boards can be manufactured as single-sided, double-sided, or multi-layer flex circuits, and are built with features like stiffeners, coverlay, impedance control, and surface finishes optimized for assembly and performance in medical, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

What Materials are Used in Flex PCBs?

Flex PCBs are constructed using high-performance materials selected for electrical stability, mechanical flexibility, and thermal resistance. Core layers include polyimide substrates, copper foil, adhesives (if used), and coverlay for insulation.

support for pcb design and manufacturability.png

Flexible Polyimide Substrates

pcb materials

DuPont, Pyralux Material Options

copper layer

Copper Foil

adhesive

Adhesive Systems

application specific material and process selection.png

Coverlay Film

What's the Difference Between Flex and Rigid PCBs?

Flex PCBs are constructed entirely from flexible materials like polyimide, allowing the full board area to bend, fold, or twist during use. Rigid-flex PCBs combine one or more rigid layers with integrated flexible layers, enabling 3D routing between rigid sections while limiting flexibility to defined areas within the stackup.

FeatureFlex PCBRigid-Flex PCB
Core ConstructionManufactured from a flexible polyimide substrate, which is between 0.5 to 4 mil thick, with optional adhesive or adhesiveless layers.A hybrid structure combining rigid PCB cores (FR4 or BT resin) with laminated flex layers between or across zones.
Layer ConfigurationAvailable in single-sided, double-sided, and up to 10-layer flex circuits with coverlay for insulation.Supports advanced stackups (e.g. 2+N+2) with mixed rigid and flexible layers. Includes via-in-pad, buried/blind vias, and impedance-controlled regions.
Mechanical BehaviorDesigned for continuous bending, folding, and tight bend radius installations. Optimized for dynamic motion.Typically, flex-to-install or limited dynamic flex. Rigid sections maintain mechanical stability for connectors or component loads.
AssemblyBuilt for lightweight, connector-free signal routing. Assembled with SMT or through-hole components in flex zones.Allows direct mounting of components on rigid zones, while flex areas route signals. Reduces interconnect failure by eliminating jumpers and connectors.
Use CasesIdeal for wearables, foldable devices, sensors, cameras, and medical implants with space or motion constraints.Common in aerospace, medical instrumentation, military electronics, and 3D-assembled modules requiring structural rigidity.
Fabrication ComplexityLower complexity: fewer lamination steps, simpler tooling, faster build times.Higher complexity: sequential lamination, multicore alignment, and more extensive DRC for rigid/flex interaction.
Cost FactorsLower cost per unit for most builds. Ideal for prototype and volume production where board flexibility is a core requirement.Higher cost due to material stackup, rigid zone fabrication, and tighter registration tolerances. Best suited for integrated, high-reliability systems.

What does the Flexible PCB Manufacturing Process Involve?

Our flex PCB manufacturing process is built around fine-pitch tolerances, controlled material handling, and clean room-level imaging steps designed for polyimide-based flexible circuits.

flexible pcbs
support.png

1. Cutting

Copper-clad polyimide laminate sheets are sheared and trimmed to production panel size.

Edges are smoothed to eliminate burrs that may affect registration.

support.png

2. Drilling

Mechanical or laser drilling is used to create plated through-holes (PTHs).

While buried or blind vias are not typical for double-layer boards, our systems support them for advanced flex structures.

support.png

3. Electroplating

Panels are cleaned and plated with electroless copper, followed by electrolytic copper to build up wall thickness and create electrical interconnects.

support.png

4. Pre-Processing & Dry Film Application

A photosensitive dry film is laminated onto both sides of the panel in a low-light cleanroom.

This layer defines the circuit trace pattern during imaging.

support.png

5. Alignment & Exposure

Phototools are aligned optically, and UV light hardens the exposed photoresist to lock in the circuit design with ±25 μm accuracy.

support.png

6. Development

Unexposed photoresist is removed using a developer solution, leaving only the hardened image areas.

support.png

7. Graphic Electroplating

Additional copper is plated over the imaged traces and vias, followed by a tin protective layer for later etching protection.

support.png

8. Etching & Resist Strip

Panels are etched to remove unwanted copper and expose the final trace geometry.

Tin is stripped to reveal clean copper features.

support.png

9. Degreasing & Cleaning

Chemical cleaning removes all remaining residues to prepare the surface for finishing.

support.png

10. Surface Treatment

Final surface finishes like OSP, ENIG, or immersion silver are applied to all exposed copper for solderability and corrosion protection.

support.png

11. Coverlay Application

A laser-cut polyimide coverlay replaces the traditional solder mask.

It is applied to both sides for mechanical and dielectric protection.

support.png

12. Pressing & Solidification

Coverlays are thermally laminated using precise pressure, temperature, and dwell time profiles for a unified flexible structure.

support.png

13. Immersion Nickel (Optional)

Additional nickel plating may be applied to exposed pads for wear resistance or gold finger applications.

support.png

14. Silkscreen Printing

White ink is screen-printed to label components, test points, and reference marks.

support.png

15. Electrical Testing

Flying probe testing verifies open/short integrity of every net against the original netlist.

support.png

16. Punching

Finished boards are routed or punched from the production panel to an individual piece format.

support.png

17. Final Inspection & Packaging

Each flexible printed circuit board is inspected with AOI for trace defects, pad misalignments, or surface inconsistencies. Qualified boards are sealed in moisture-resistant, anti-static packaging for global shipment.

How to Order Your Flex PCB
in 5 Easy Steps

submit design

Submit Your PCB Design

Upload your Gerber files or use our easy online PCB design tool to create your board layout. Make sure your files are complete and correctly formatted to ensure smooth processing and production accuracy.

specifications

Select Your PCB Specifications

Customize your order by choosing the technical specifications—number of layers, board dimensions, thickness, copper weight, solder mask color, surface finish, and more. Our intuitive interface helps you configure everything based on your project’s needs.

instant quote

Get an Instant Quote

Once your design and specs are in place, you'll receive a transparent, instant quote. Pricing updates in real time as you modify options, so you can adjust your selections to match your budget before placing the order.

payment

Confirm Order & Make Payment

Review your entire order for accuracy, including file previews and selected specs. After confirmation, proceed to secure checkout and choose your preferred payment method. You’ll receive an email confirmation with order details.

production and delivery

Production & Delivery

Your PCB moves into production immediately. We’ll keep you updated throughout the manufacturing process. Once completed, your boards are carefully packed and shipped to your door, with tracking information provided for your convenience.

Where are Flex PCBs Used?

Flex PCBs are used in systems where size constraints, dynamic movement, and weight reduction require compact, bend-capable interconnects. Their ability to maintain electrical performance under mechanical stress makes them ideal for harsh and high-density environments.

aerospace and defense.png

Aerospace

Flexible PCBs are integrated into navigation systems, radar modules, heads-up displays, temperature sensors, and engine control electronics.

Their ability to tolerate vibration, heat, and continuous flexing makes them suitable for confined airborne assemblies where rigid boards are not viable.

Defense Industry

Defense

Military-grade systems use flex circuits in CubeSats, portable targeting devices, missile control boards, and wearable gear.

These builds benefit from reduced connector count, lower profile, and reliable circuit performance under mechanical load and thermal cycling.

medical devices 2.png

Medical Devices

Pacemakers, defibrillators, heart monitors, cochlear implants, hearing aids, and pill cameras use flexible circuit boards to meet strict size, shape, and bend requirements for internal or wearable electronics, enabling reliable circuitry in compact, motion-prone environments.

consumer displays.png

Consumer Electronics

Used in foldable smartphones, fitness trackers, action cameras, and OLED screen modules, flex PCBs enable tight PCB design inside dynamic housings where mechanical flexibility and signal integrity must coexist.

automotive displays.png

Automotive Electronics

Infotainment systems, ADAS modules, airbags, lighting systems, and digital dash displays use flexible PCBs to route signals through tight enclosures while tolerating engine vibration and heat.

Their controlled bend radius and material endurance are critical to long-term reliability.

industrial automation 1.png

Industrial Equipment

Flex boards are implemented in robotic joints, sensor networks, and compact control systems, delivering durable signal paths in motion-heavy and space-constrained environments.

telecommunications 1.png

Telecommunications

Base stations, antennas, portable transceivers, and satellite communications hardware use flexible circuits to manage high-frequency signal paths in ultra-compact RF enclosures.

WellPCB is trusted by millions of
businesses and innovators.

Why Choose WellPCB?

WellPCB stands out among USA PCB manufacturers by delivering superior quality, advanced solutions, and unmatched reliability. With years of experience serving global markets, WellPCB has earned a reputation as one of the top PCB manufacturers in USA.

WellPCB specializes in multilayer PCBs for advanced electronic applications. You can order these boards with $100 off using our special offer, providing high complexity at competitive rates for demanding projects.

team member shao

Hommer Zhao

Founder and Chief Editor – Hommer Zhao

Welcome! I’m Hommer Zhao, the founder and Chief Editor of WellPCB. With years of experience in the PCB industry, I’m committed to making sure our content is both accurate and helpful. We’re proud to serve a growing community of over 4,000 customers worldwide, and our goal is to provide you with the best resources and support. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we’re here to help you every step of the way!

team member jessie

Jesse Holland

Technical Manager – Jesse Holland

Hi, I’m Jesse Holland, an Engineer and Technical Manager at WellPCB. With years of experience in PCB design and engineering, I’m here to ensure that every project we work on meets the highest technical standards. I lead our team, focusing on precision and innovation, collaborating closely with clients to provide tailored solutions and expert guidance. Whether you’re facing a complex design challenge or need advice on technical aspects, I’m here to ensure your project is a success from start to finish.

team member nathan

Nathan Jensen

Purchasing Manager – Nathan Jensen

Hi, I’m Nathan Jenson, the Purchasing Manager at WellPCB. I’m responsible for sourcing the best materials and components to ensure our products meet the highest quality standards. With my extensive experience in procurement, I work closely with suppliers to secure reliable and cost-effective solutions while maintaining strong relationships to support our operations. I aim to ensure every project runs smoothly by providing the resources needed to deliver on time and to your satisfaction.

team member emma

Emma

Sales Manager – Emma

Hey, I am Emma, sales manager at WellPCB. I studied electronic science and technology at university and have served customers for PCB and PCB Assembly service for several years.

I enjoy communicating with customers and our technicians to solve problems, and customers always say, "It's great to have you onboard".

It is my pleasure and honour to be helpful. Contact me now, and you'll know.

team member bella and cassiel

Bella and Cassiel

Sales Representatives – Bella and Cassiel

We’re Bella and Cassiel, your dedicated sales representatives at WellPCB. With our extensive knowledge of the PCB industry, we’re here to provide exceptional service and support. We take the time to understand your unique needs and are always ready to offer tailored solutions and advice. Whether you need product recommendations, assistance with your orders, or simply have a question, we’re here to ensure your experience is smooth and seamless at every step.

team member mandy and wendy

Mandy and Wendy

Sales Representatives – Mandy and Wendy

We’re Mandy and Wendy, your friendly sales representatives at WellPCB. Passionate about helping our customers, we bring a wealth of experience in the PCB industry to provide you with the best solutions and service. We take pride in building strong relationships with our clients, understanding their specific needs, and offering personalised support to ensure their satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for advice, product information, or assistance with any part of your order, we’re here to make your experience as smooth and efficient as possible.

Our Team

Our skilled engineers and technicians bring expertise and precision to every PCB assembly project. Committed to quality, efficiency, and innovation, our team ensures every order meets the highest UL, IPC, ROHS & REACH standards, delivering reliable solutions tailored to your needs.

  • Founder and Chief Editor – Hommer Zhao
  • Technical Manager – Jesse Holland
  • Purchasing Manager – Nathan Jensen
  • Sales Manager – Emma
  • Sales Representatives – Bella and Cassiel
  • Sales Representatives – Mandy and Wendy

    Flex PCB Case Studies

    osp scanner flex pcb

    Case Study

    A single-layer flex PCB designed for a scanner application, focused on delivering precision signal transmission, mechanical flexibility, and enhanced durability through surface and structural enhancements.

    enig lcd connector flex circuit board

    Case Study

    This project involves a high-precision multi-layer flexible board developed for use in LCD connectors, focusing on flexibility, signal integrity, and mechanical durability for the flexible connector interface in electronic devices like LCD screens. It includes a multi-layer structure with precise surface finishes and materials to support high-frequency signals while maintaining flexibility and reliability.

    high tech flex pcb

    Case Study

    This high-precision ultra-thin flex PCB is engineered for use in advanced medical instruments. The circuit is optimized for biocompatibility, miniaturization, and high signal integrity, meeting the stringent demands of medical environments. It features extremely fine trace dimensions, immersion gold finish, and ultra-thin construction for flexible deployment in compact medical devices.

    Client Feedback On Our Flex PCBs

    quote icon.png
    star rating 1

    As an R&D manager, I have had an outstanding experience working with WELL-PCB. For many years, our company has entrusted them with the production, assembly, and programming of the boards developed in our R&D unit, and they have consistently exceeded our expectations.

    avatar.png

    Hamid Reza Moshayedi

    R&D Manager

    quote icon.png
    star rating 1

    Their work is very impressively perfect. Today, when they check our company PCB board after assemble. They found a fake short point which many engineers has never found in the past years. But that is just designed so. The PCB board quality is excellent. Their service is also excellent.

    mikez.png

    MikeZ

    quote icon.png
    star rating 1

    My friend introduced WellPCB to me, the first try, a little look forward to. I ordered a 47*72 10ps PCB, and I can’t wait to receive my PCB. So I used expedited service and received my PCB in three days. I tested and soldered the PCB, Quality is really good, silkscreen, plating also great.

    warren cliton.png

    Warren Cliton

    Flex PCB FAQs

    The recommended dynamic bend radius is 10× the finished flex thickness. For static bends, 6× thickness is acceptable. Designs using 1 oz copper and 2 mil polyimide typically target a 20–25 mm dynamic bend radius to avoid copper fatigue or delamination.

    Yes, we support copper weights up to 20 oz for heavy copper flex circuits. These builds are used in high-current or thermal load applications and require adjusted trace spacing, plating control, and thermal profiling during fabrication.

    Adhesive-based flex PCBs are built by bonding copper foil to the polyimide core using a separate adhesive layer, typically acrylic or epoxy. This structure is easier to process but can expand under heat, impact, and fine-pitch registration.

    Adhesiveless flex PCBs use copper laminated directly to the polyimide without adhesive, improving dimensional accuracy, reducing moisture uptake, and allowing finer trace geometry. Adhesiveless builds are preferred in HDI, controlled impedance, and thermally demanding designs.

    Yes, we offer UL-certified flex builds. Material selection and stackup design must meet UL 94V-0 flame rating and associated dielectric and construction standards.

    For flex PCBs, designers should avoid placing traces over bend areas, use staggered routing on opposing layers, and apply gradual width transitions at connector zones.

    For rigid-flex, keep via transitions outside flex regions, maintain uniform stackup symmetry, and isolate rigid/flex interfaces with proper pad relief and adhesive anchors.

    In both cases, maintaining controlled bend radius, layer balance, and proper coverlay alignment is critical to avoid delamination and mechanical failure.

    These are supported by layout principles outlined in Altium expert Ben Jordan’s Flex PCB Design Best Practices, where IPC-2223 standards guide trace placement, coverlay alignment, and bend radius tolerances in flexible designs.