SMT Quick-Tips: Selecting a Stencil Printer
Robert Voigt, DDM Novastar
How To Select A Stencil Printer
What is a Stencil Printer?
The first step in a paste, place, reflow assembly operation is the Stencil Printer, which can be manual, semi-automatic, or automatic. This machine dispenses solder paste, using a squeegee, forced over the openings in a stencil onto a printed circuit board.
PRODUCTION VOLUME
The first question to answer is: What production range are you dealing with? This will help you to decide what level of automation you’ll need.
- Up to 150 boards/day indicates a manual system, and will likely run about $2,000-$5,000 for a decent new machine
- Up to 500 boards/day is in the semi-automatic range, and will command in the range of $8,000-$14,000
- Over 500 boards/day is in the fully-automatic range, and can cost $30,000 or more depending on the bells and whistles that come with it.
Manual systems
Here, speed is typically not an issue. Fine pitch and accuracy are the most critical factors. Accuracy is determined by how securely aligned the circuitboard is in the machine. There are 4 dimensions to consider for the control method: X, Y, Z and Θ.
Once the board is aligned in the machine, paste is applied using a squeegee. While there are typically a couple of options on all systems, most assemblers will be using a manual squeegee. Some machines have a built-in guide that aids in applying the right amount of solder paste. There are several key points to applying paste properly:
- Angle of attack
- Squeegee pressure
- Squeegee speed
Once the paste is applied, the stencil is lifted off the circuit board, either vertically, or pivoted. There is no practical difference in either of the two lift methods.
Semi-automatic systems
In a moderately high volume environment, several of the functions can be automated to some extent, making the process more efficient, more repeatable, and allowing a higher yield at lower cost.
The following are typically found in semi-automatic stencil printers:
- Auto open/close for board loading and unloading, reducing operator fatigue
- Controlling the squeegee pressure
- Controlling the movement and speed of the squeegee
- Visual alignment/assist options to facilitate positioning
Fully automatic systems
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Here, everything is managed without operator intervention. Systems may include automatic board loading/unloading and auto fiducial alignment for X, Y, Z and Θ positioning. Again, you get what you pay for. If you’re running 2,000 boards/day, more automation may provide significant dividends in terms of quality yield, reduced labor costs, and more control over your process. If you’re spending the kind of money a fully automatic system commands, you will need to perform some serious due diligence on special capabilities that can’t be covered in a short article.
CONSTRUCTION
Regardless of the volume, you’re looking for the best accuracy and repeatability you can get, so once fixturing is set up, you don’t want to waste time recalibrating.
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Accuracy and repeatability are directly related to fine pitch capability, and pitch accuracy is directly related to machine stability. For this reason, construction of the holding plates is critical.
Machines constructed with sheet metal are not nearly as stable as those made using a machine ground holding plate with welded frames. This assures that nothing moves from one board to the next so you can expect repeatable accuracy from board to board.
Another factor affecting print quality is the squeegee type. Squeegee blades are made from several materials, and come in a variety of sizes. Blade types are commonly urethane, metal (most popular), and plastic. Metal squeegee blades typically enable a more controlled print height across the board, and work well with a mix of component sizes.
Some users consider the stencil printer to be the most important purchase of all – consider this quote from the Adafruit forum:
“Spending money on a good stencil printer is a really good idea. You live and die by the quality of the solder paste deposit on your PCB.”
Check out DDM Novastar's wide range of Stencil Printer Machines.
Have questions or need help specifying a machine? Use our contact form for assistance.
VENDOR SUPPORT
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One of the most important aspects of this evaluation (for any SMT machine, frankly) will be support, and the best way to learn how a company treats its customers is by word of mouth. Talk to several customers to find out how happy they are with the machine, the seller, and the support they provide. Where is the manufacturing plant? Can they help troubleshoot software or alignment issues over the phone? Do they offer field service? Do they have spare parts in stock for immediate shipment? Remember to ask your supplier about their older machines in the field, and if down the road, spare parts are available, and about their capability to customize a spare part if the machine becomes obsolescent.
Ask what the expected life-cycle of the product is. The industry standard is 7 years. Remember, there is a difference between a true manufacturer and an equipment supplier or distributor.
Double-sided boards or flexible circuits
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Do you need a method to print both sides of the board? Check to see that the model you’re considering offers a double-sided nesting fixture, or vacuum fixture to hold down flexible circuits.
Ease of use
Every stencil manufacturer makes different size frames. The stencil printer you buy should be able to accommodate various size mounting frames and/or tubular frames. The manufacturer should also be able to provide adapters for frameless stencils.
Don’t overlook electrical requirements. Be sure the machine you buy will plug-and-play in your environment without new wiring or plan on an adapter/transformer.
Remember: The application of solder paste is the start of your process. It must be right because the rest of the process can’t make up for improper solder placement.
- Best parts availability, service, factory training, and reconditioning
- Custom machine design or programming, now or when you need modifications later
- US government required sourcing
- High precision features such as welded frames to increase stability
Download the PDF: "Selecting a stencil printer"