COVID-19 Response Letter 888.844.8416 REQUEST A QUOTE About Us Rigid Flex Circuitry Literature Industries Resources Contact Us What Is IPC-6013 and Why Is It Important for Rigid-Flex PCBs? Posted by Anna on June 28, 2021 2:07 pm | Comments Off on What Is IPC-6013 and Why Is It Important for Rigid-Flex PCBs? To ensure the integrity of rigid-flex PCBs, it is necessary to inspect and test them following a standardized set of procedures. IPC-6013 is a key performance specification for both flexible and rigid-flexible circuits. This blog will discuss what IPC-6013 and IPC inspection standards are, and why they are important for these PCB types. What is IPC Testing? Founded in 1957, the Institute for Printed Circuits (IPC) is a global trade association that represents the electronics industry with a core focus on electronics design, assembly, and PCB manufacturing. There are numerous IPC specifications that products can be tested on, ranging from raw material and design specifications to performance and assembly specifications. Performing IPC testing allows manufacturers to build more reliable products by following a set of proven standards. Companies can become certified by the IPC to perform testing on products and ensure they meet IPC specifications. The IPC outlines a wide range of testing methods, including: Visual examination Dimensional measurements Chemical testing Mechanical testing Electrical testing Environmental exposure Material requirements Performing these tests ensures that electronic products meet the necessary performance and manufacturing standards. However, it’s important to note that the testing of circuit boards is very application- and environment-specific. For example, PCBs used in aerospace applications require a more rigorous testing and inspection process compared to PCBs used in consumer products. What is IPC-6013? Why is it Important for Flex & Rigid-Flex PCBs? (Click to Expand) IPC-6013 is the standard for the qualification and performance for flexible circuits, including both flexible and rigid-flex PCBs. There are four different IPC classifications for circuit boards, each of which has different requirements for testing and inspection. These classifications include: Class 1. This group is assigned to general electronic boards with a limited life and simple function capabilities, such as those used in everyday consumer electronics. Class 2. Dedicated service electronic products make up this class, including low-level industrial applications and certain medical applications. These boards have extended life and higher reliability, and they follow more stringent standards than Class 1. Class 3. Class 3 PCBs are used in high-performance electronic products that cannot fail and are often used in demanding performance applications. These boards are very reliable and require high levels of testing and inspection for conformance to the requirements. Class 3A. This is the highest class for printed circuit boards. These boards must follow extremely stringent standards for testing and inspection as they are often used in critical aerospace and military applications. The primary difference between each classification is the degree of inspection and permissible defects. For example, Class 1 and Class 2 boards can have minor cosmetic defects as long as they don’t affect the board’s overall function; however, Class 3 and Class 3A boards must be free from defects to ensure reliable performance with no failures in the end application. Following IPC testing procedures is an essential step in ensuring the integrity of flex and rigid-flex PCBs. There are many possible ways to verify the quality of your raw materials and finished products; however, the guidelines set up in IPC-6013 are the most comprehensive and globally recognized starting point. About Rigid-Flex PCBs at Printed Circuits When choosing a rigid-flex PCB manufacturer for any application, it’s important to choose a company that can demonstrate the effectiveness of its products. Testing according to IPC-6013 standards is a globally recognized way of ensuring the quality, performance, and overall integrity of your PCBs. This type of testing is particularly critical in Class 3 and 3A boards, which require extremely tight tolerances and conformance to stringent high reliability standards. Printed Circuits has been designing and manufacturing rigid-flex PCBs for over 40 years. We have an in-depth understanding of the industry demands for PCBs across a wide range of applications, and we primarily fabricate IPC-6013 Class 3 boards and above. Whatever your required board attributes or product yield, our state-of-the-art equipment and 65,000 sq. ft. manufacturing space allows us to meet your PCB needs. To learn more about the IPC-6013 specification or our rigid-flex PCBs, contact us today. Comments are closed Recent Posts Rigid Flex PCB Advantages for Medical Applications What Is IPC-6013 and Why Is It Important for Rigid-Flex PCBs? FR4 Rigid Boards vs. Rigid-Flex Boards: What Are the Differences? Understanding the Rigid Flex PCB Prototyping Process What is UL 94 V-0 Certification and Why is it Advantageous for Rigid Flex PCBs? Archives: November 2021 June 2021 April 2021 December 2020 October 2020 Categories: Uncategorized Interested in learning more? 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