Rigid PCBs (RPCBs)
Precision, Reliability & Performance
A rigid printed circuit board (PCB) is made from a solid, inflexible material, typically fiberglass or a composite material. It provides structural support and houses electrical components such as resistors, capacitors, and integrated circuits (ICs), which are connected by conductive copper traces. Unlike flexible or rigid-flex PCBs, rigid PCBs do not bend or flex, making them ideal for applications where the circuit needs to remain stable and maintain consistent performance in a fixed, unchanging environment.
At HT Global Circuits, we offer superior quality rigid PCB fabrication services, which enable us to offer single-sided, double-sided, high-density rigid PCBs, and custom rigid PCBs to suit your requirements. We engineer high-performance rigid PCBs to meet the exacting demands of modern electronics, combining signal integrity, thermal management, and mechanical stability in a proven substrate. Explore our capabilities to learn how we can enhance to the efficiency and functionality of your products through our PCBs.
Rigid PCB Capabilities
We offer custom rigid PCBs with exceptional flexibility in terms of layers, materials, dimensional stability, and many other features.
Here are some of the technical capabilities.
| Specification | Capability |
|---|---|
|
Materials |
FR4, halogen-free FR4 |
|
Number of layers |
1-108 layers |
|
Copper weights |
0.125 – 12 ounces |
|
Minimum trace length and spacing |
2.4 / 2.4 mils |
|
PCB thickness |
0.320 inches |
|
Maximum dimensions |
32″ x 52″ |
|
Surface finishes |
HASL, Lead-free HASL, OSP, ENIG, Immersion Tin, Immersion Silver, Electrolytic gold, Gold fingers, Selected finish |
|
Minimum drill |
4.0 mils |
|
Special processes |
Counter sink, Edge platting, Bonding, Castelated holes, Carbon ink, Peelable solder mask |
|
Controlled impedance |
Tight tolerances (±10%) for high-speed designs |
Certifications
Our production facilities produce in accordance with the IPC-A-600, IPC 6011 and IPC 6012 standards and have been awarded all the key certificates:
Beneficial Features of Rigid PCBs
As an experienced rigid PCB manufacturer, we can cater to any complex design requirements for applications that require rigid PCBs. From prototyping to high-volume production, we deliver rigid PCBs that balance performance, durability, and manufacturability, ensuring your designs perform as intended, every time.
Advanced DFM Support
We optimize designs for yield, cost, and performance while reviewing stackups, material selection, and thermal dissipation upfront. Our design support and DFM services help improve the manufacturability and performance of the device or system.
Work Methodology
We offer consulting services on stackup planning & material selection. We do a proper thermal analysis and copper balancing. Our process includes signal integrity modeling for high-speed designs. We generate DFM reports before beginning rigid PCB fabrication and confirm any changes with the client.
Multilayer Rigid PCBs
We are capable of offering up to 108 layers even in rigid PCBs, without compromising on size and weight.
Dimensional Stability
Near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) ensures reliability in high-vibration, high-temperature, or mission-critical applications.
Layer Stackup Flexibility
We offer layers from 1 to 108, depending on your requirement and support complex architectures with tight tolerances up to ±3 mil trace/spacing and 0.003″ laser drills.
Improved Heat Dissipation
We design rigid PCBs with materials that facilitate better heat dissipation, which is critical for components that generate heat during operation. This protects and extends the lifespan of sensitive electronic components.
Precision and Tight Tolerances
Rigid PCBs allow for high precision in the placement of components. The boards can be designed with tight tolerances, which is essential for high-performance electronics and systems requiring reliable operation.
Structural and dimensional stability
Rigid boards offer better structural stability to the device. They support highly complex and modern circuit designs with multiple layers, which is important in modern electronics.
Key Industries and Applications
As one of the reliable rigid PCB suppliers, we cater to diverse clients across industries and their mission-critical applications.
Here are some key application areas of rigid PCBs.
- Industrial Automation: Our rigid PCBs are used in PLCs, motor drives & controls, and sensors of several industrial equipment and integrated automation systems.
- Aerospace & defense: These boards find application in avionics and ruggedized systems used in defense electronics, artillery equipment, navigation systems, and so on.
- Medical devices: Rigid PCBs are required in imaging equipment such as MRI and CT scan systems as well as diagnostic equipment.
- Networking & communication: Rigid PCBs are part of high-speed digital communication systems and are used in server boards and network equipment such as routers, IP phones, and cameras, among others.
Why Do Engineers Choose HT Global Circuits?
HTGC has been an absolutely reliable and scalable partner throughout the product development lifecycle.
Here are some reasons of partnering with us.
- Experience and expertise: We have a visible market presence and experience in PCB fabrication for over 35 years. Over the years, we have built our brand and a supply chain of vendors. This helps us in exact part procurement on time. We have a proven track record of on-time delivery exceeding 98%, ensuring our clients can rely on us for consistent and timely PCB supplies for their projects.
- Research and innovation: We invest in research and advanced technologies, including High-Tg Rigid PCBs, HDI, rigid-flex board capabilities. This allows engineers to stay ahead of technological advancements and meet the evolving demands of the electronics industry.
- Quality: We assure proven quality systems and adhere to stringent quality certifications, including IPC Class 2/3 standards, IATF 16949 for automotive applications, and AS9100 for aerospace and defense sectors. This commitment to quality ensures we offer reliable and durable PCBs suitable for mission-critical applications.
- Global footprint: We have state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in the United States in St. Petersburg and Milwaukee and cost-effective operations in China, Taiwan, and Thailand. This helps us provide a global reach with localized service and engineering support and take up offshore rigid PCB projects. Our international presence ensures scalability and flexibility for engineers working on projects of varying sizes and complexities, while achieving cost effectiveness.
- Quick turn prototypes: We offer rigid PCB prototypes in as fast as 24-72 hours depending on the complexity. We are capable of small- to medium-batches as well as full-volume production.
Get your PCBs Built – Fast
HT Global Circuits delivers quick-turn, high-quality PCBs with transparent pricing and reliable delivery. Order now to keep your projects on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
HT Global Circuits has the following industry standards and certifications.
- ISO 9001: Quality management systems.
- ISO 14001: Environmental management systems.
- IATF 16949: Automotive quality management systems.
- AS9100: Aerospace quality management systems.
- UL Certification: For safety and performance standards.
The lifespan of a rigid PCB depends on environmental conditions, operating temperatures, and electrical load. Typically, they last for up to 5-10 years or more, if used as per the manufacturer’s specifications.
Rigid PCBs are useful in applications that require a fixed, durable board, such as in consumer electronics or automotive systems. On the other hand, flexible PCBs are used in applications where flexibility is important, such as in wearable devices or compact electronics with complex shapes.