What's the process for SMT PCB Assembly?
The process of using SMT to manufacture PCB devices includes the use of automated machines to assemble electronic components. This machine places these elements on the circuit board, but before that, the PCB file must be checked to confirm that they have no problems affecting the manufacturability and functionality of the device. After confirming that everything is perfect, the process of SMT PCB assembly is not limited to soldering and placing elements or compounds on the PCB. The following production process must also be followed.
1. Apply solder paste
The initial step when assembling the SMT PCB board is applying the soldering paste. The paste can be applied to the PCB via silk screen technology. It can also be applied using PCB stencil tailored from a similar CAD output file. You only need to cut the stencils using a laser and apply the soldering paste to the parts where you will solder the components. The solder paste application must be carried out in a cool environment. Once you are done applying, you can wait for some time for assembly.
2. Inspection of your solder paste
After the solder paste is applied to the board, the next step is to always check it through solder paste inspection techniques. This process is critical, especially when analyzing the location of solder paste, the amount of solder paste used, and other basic aspects.
3. Process confirmation
Just in case your PCB board is utilizing SMT components on either side, there will be a need to consider repeating the same process for secondary side confirmation. you will be able to track the ideal time to expose the solder paste to room temperature in here. This is when your circuit board is ready to be assembled. The components will still be ready for the next factory.
4. Assembly kits
This basically deals with the BOM (Bill of Materials) used by CM for data analysis. This facilitates the development of BOM assembly kits.
5. Stocking kits with elements
Use the barcode to pull it out of stock and include it in the assembly kit. When the components are fully installed in the kit, they are taken to a pick and place machine called surface mount technology.
6. Preparation of components for placement
A pick-and-place tool is employed here to hold every element for assembly. The machine also uses a cartridge that comes with a unique key that corresponds to the BOM assembly kit. The machine is designed to tell the part that the cartridge hold.