SMT assembly makes for a popular process in the computer, automotive, aerospace, medical care, and telecommunication industries. It has been widely accepted and applied for producing quality electronics owing to its cost, time, labour, and material saving benefits. SMT assembly allows creating products with higher integrity and reliability. However, the final product quality can degrade if there are faults with the SMT assembly process. Therefore, this article will explain some of the essential measures to help improve the SMT assembly quality during manufacturing processes.
What Is SMT?
SMT or Surface Mount Technology is one of the ways utilized to assemble the electronic components of a PCB. This technology allows mounting all elements on the face of the board rather than the conventional method of inserting through holes. Today, there is an extensive adaptation of this method for its numerous benefits. The PCB manufacturing costs get significantly less with SMT. The space utilization is also quite efficient. Plus, SMT allows building complex circuits even in smaller spaces with a higher level of automation.
Are There Any Issues With SMT?
Despite all benefits, SMT does encounter some issues. Insufficient solder joints, grainy joints solder beading, insufficient solder, insufficient fill, tomb-stoning, electrical bridging, excessive filet, and non-wetting or de-wetting maybe some of the defects affecting SMT assemblies. But, there are ways you can eliminate the drawbacks, and it will improve the reliability of the SMT assembly processes.
Measures to Improve SMT Assembly Quality
How can you fix some of the typical quality issues with Surface Mount Technology assembly? Here are some practical measures you must understand to troubleshoot the problems:
Most of the SMT assembly defects in electronic products arise from poor quality solder paste printing. Therefore, improving its performance must be a priority.
Ensure there isn’t an abnormal connection soldered amongst two traces or pins. This can result in a conductive path; however, changing the design or applying moderate solder paste can improve SMT assembly.
You must not keep PCB in a humid environment, the design must be accurate, and printing must follow baking to eliminate any vapours.
Next, placement technology makes the core of SMT as devices miniaturize and PCB assembly gets increasingly complex. Therefore, components must be accurately set to the corresponding positions on the board since placement relies on component selection and mounting pressure and position.
Apply the solder paste carefully and also exercise caution when replacing solder pads. Excessive or inappropriate use can scatter the paste like beads to components in close proximity and compromise the PCB quality.
Avoiding excessive filet when separating the board from solder waves improves the superiority of SMT assembly.
Insufficient solder joints may arise opening the area otherwise meant for conduction if electrically connected points are detached. Thus contain solder contamination, and make sure the aspect ratio must be correct.
Finally, to prevent non-wetting, temperature resistant quality surface finish must be adapted. This is achieved by profiling the PCB to suit its individual characteristics.
To Conclude
SMT has its pros and cons but is more common today for its cost-saving benefits and better space utilization techniques. Leaving any faults unattended during the procedure can lead to circuit failures or yield erroneous results. It compromises the dependability of the final print circuit board. Therefore, taking measures to improve SMT quality becomes necessary. Resolving issues mentioned in this article can enhance the overall manufacturing processes.
If you are looking for a premier and fully integrated PCB manufacturing company offering superior SMT services, Advanced Technology & Manufacturing (AT&M) in Perth is the name to trust. We retain the expertise in taking the products from prototype to final production, adding value to your business. Contact us today for better assistance on your PCB manufacturing requirements.