The company uses advanced Laser Direct Imaging, plus additive and subtractive copper processing, to achieve fine line and space geometries over long distances.
PLYMOUTH, Mass.—Long flex circuits recently introduced by Tech Etch are designed to replace bulky wire harnesses in space-constrained and dynamic environments, the company said in a release.
Tech Etch’s long flex circuits, production-ready in lengths up to 60 inches, are reported to provide consistent signal integrity under continuous motion, vibration, and thermal stress. They are “engineered to support advanced medical devices, aerospace and defense systems, robotics, and next-generation wearable technologies where performance is non-negotiable,” the release stated.
“Extended-length flex circuits present unique manufacturing and reliability challenges that many suppliers struggle to overcome,” said Richard Cammarano, president and CEO at Tech Etch, in the release. “We’ve invested heavily in process control, material science, and validation to deliver long flex solutions that engineers can confidently integrate into high-performance, reliability-driven systems.”
The company manufactures its long flex circuits using advanced Laser Direct Imaging (LDI), as well as additive and subtractive copper processing, to achieve fine line and space geometries over long distances. Its production capabilities are reported to include trace and space down to 0.002 inch, ultra-thin 9 µm copper layers, laser-drilled microvias, and polyimide substrates optimized for flexibility and thermal stability.
Tech Etch stated that it offers advanced construction options, including adhesiveless substrates, specialty metals such as beryllium copper, stainless steel, and tungsten, and contoured circuit designs that integrate thick contact fingers directly into flexible circuit constructions.
“These capabilities reflect our commitment to expanding what’s possible with flex circuit technology,” said Cammarano said. “As medical, aerospace, and defense systems continue to demand longer reach, lighter weight, and higher reliability, Tech Etch is committed to evolving our manufacturing platform to support the next generation of products and applications.”
An employee-owned company, Tech Etch manufactures all of the long flex circuits in the United States. In addition to high-reliability flexible circuits, the company manufactures EMI/RFI shielding and precision-etched components. The company operates under rigorous quality and compliance standards, including ISO 13485, AS9100, ISO 9001, and ITAR registration.
“Tech Etch partners with leading global customers in the aerospace, alternative energy, military, medical, telecommunication, and electronics industries that have precise designs and demanding regulatory requirements,” the release stated.