Printed circuit boards are assembled into various electromechanical or electrical devices that allow the product to operate automatically. Printed circuit boards automate and partially or fully digitize product operations. But how are these printed circuit boards manufactured? Are PCB manufacturing and assembly processes automated? While printed circuit boards were originally manufactured using mechanical machines and some manufacturing steps were performed manually, the need for digitalization and automation has changed the production and assembly of printed circuit boards. Automated PCB assembly services basically assembles boards using automated machines and processes that require very little human intervention. Assembling these components includes soldering joints, wire, etc. Automation in PCB manufacturing has many benefits. This post discusses the processes and benefits of automated PCBA.
Processes Used in Automated PCB Assembly
The PCB assembly process can be partially or fully automated and has the same advantages. A few tips on the PCB assembly process and its automation.
- A pre-assembled PCB is a blank board on which you need to work with schematics and components. Prior to actual manufacturing, engineers refer to design files to understand specifications, schematics, etc.
- Assembly involves a series of steps starting with soldering or applying solder paste to specific parts of the board, especially those where components will be attached.
- This can be done using the app. Much depends on the number of layers in the plate and the material from which they are made.
- After that, component installation continues. This is a very important aspect as you have to pick the correct components and put them in the correct position. This can be automated using pick and place automatically.
- Reapply the soldering points after installing the component. This is called solder reflow. This paste hardens and helps the components adhere properly to the board. These PCBs are heated again to melt the solder paste and cooled in a controlled manner.
- The next step is testing and validation. This is mainly done by automated test methods such as Automated optical inspection (AOI), X-ray inspection. While simple visual inspection is done manually, PCB testing involves a variety of automated steps.
- After final testing, the PCBA is formed. However, solder paste remains and excess material can remain on the board and should be cleaned. Therefore, these assembled plates go through a washing cycle with deionized water. They are completely dry and ready to be packed and shipped.
- Once the components are assembled, all these steps are automated and run on a conveyor belt.
Benefits of Automated PCB Assembly
Advances in electronics are constantly evolving, leading to automation of design, manufacturing, manufacturing, and assembly processes involving PCBs. Here are some benefits of automated PCB assembly:
- Automation can increased productivity, higher production volumes, fewer errors, and consistent shape and size.
- Boards can be made on automatic CNC machines. Just set the right program and it will produce the type of board you need, no matter how many.
- When assembling a board, automation helps ensure that components are mounted and routed correctly. Also suitable for soldering.
- The testing process is automated to help you spot errors in time and find common open wires and soldering issues with detailed cross sections, stiffeners and more. This improves safety and also ensures that the end product works properly.
- This reduces the overall cost of fixing errors due to human error. Investing in process automation may seem like a big decision, but it will be more cost-effective in the long run due to lower maintenance and overhead costs. In addition, since mass production is possible, we can purchase large quantities at wholesale prices.
For OEMs who need PCB assembly for new products, we can work with experienced PCB fabricators and service providers. East India Technologies (EITPL) is a leading PCB assembly company in India that offers automated PCB assembly that saves you time and money. Make sure they understand your requirements and can help you select the materials, components, etc.
