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First of all SMT printer solder paste printing machine running process mainly has: into the PCB board, solder paste printing, out of the pcb board three major parts, the specific workflow is as follows:
Printing machine from the Loader to receive PCB → camera for identification and positioning → vacuum or clamping device to fix the PCB → lifting device will pcb up to contact the stencil → squeegee down to the SMT printing position → squeegee according to the setting to start printing → printing is completed after the squeegee back to the original position → PCB and stencil began to be separated → printing effect of the 2D test → send out the pcb → for stencil cleaning → printing is completed Carry out the next printing action.
General steps for SMT printer work:
1.The PCB is fed into the solder paste printer along a conveyor belt.
2.The machine searches for and positions the main edges of the PCB.
3.The Z-frame moves up to the position of the vacuum board.
4.Vacuum is added and the PCB is firmly fixed in a specific position.
5、Vision axis (lens) slowly moves to the first target (reference point) of the PCB.
6, vision axis (lens) to find the corresponding stencil below the target (datum).
7, the machine moves the stencil to align it with the PCB, the machine can make the stencil move in the direction of X, Y axis and rotate in the direction of θ axis.
8, the stencil and PCB are aligned, the Z-frame will move upwards, driving the PCB to contact the underside of the stencil.
9, Once moved into place, the squeegee will push the solder paste to roll on the stencil and print on the PAD bit of the PCB through the holes on the stencil.
10, When printing is complete, the Z-frame moves down to drive the PCB away from the stencil.
11、The machine will send out the PCB to the next process.
12, the printer asked to receive the next pcb product to be printed.
13, Carry out the same process, just use the second squeegee to print in the opposite direction.
SMT printer operation process
SMT printer Pre-opening inspection
1、Check whether the voltage of the input power supply and the air pressure of the gas source meet the requirements.
2、Check whether the wiring of the machine is well connected.
3、Check whether the equipment is well grounded.
4、Check whether the pneumatic system is leaking, whether the air inlet filter device has accumulated water, and whether it works normally.
5、Check whether the transmission belt of the machine is suitable.
6, check whether there are unrelated debris left in the electric control box, electric control box wiring sockets are well plugged.
7, check whether there are tools and other objects left inside the machine.
8, according to the requirements of the PCB to be printed, prepare the appropriate stencil and solder paste.
9, check whether the magnetic thimble and vacuum suction cups according to the size of the PCB size to be produced placed on the worktable board.
10, check the cleaning paper rolls are loaded, check the air pressure and liquid level in the alcohol tank (alcohol tank pressure should be 1 ~ 2kgc ㎡, the liquid level should be beyond the liquid level sensor).
11, check whether the machine’s emergency brake switch pops up.
12、Check whether the three-color light works normally, check whether the front and rear cover of the machine is covered.
SMT printer Preparation for the start of production
SMT printer Preparation of templates
- template substrate thickness and window size is directly related to the quality of solder paste printing, thus affecting the quality of the next SMT patch. The template should have wear-resistant, burr-free holes without jagged, smooth hole wall, good solder paste permeability, mesh plate stretching small and good resilience and so on.
- according to the size of the frame to move the frame support plate, the frame front and rear, left and right direction of the center of the printing press and the front beam of the left and right support plate on the scale “0” scale position, centered on the placement, and then the mesh plate lock.
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) is integral to modern electronics manufacturing, with printers playing a critical role in the assembly process. The workflow begins with preparing the printed circuit board (PCB). This involves cleaning the board and ensuring that all design specifications are met. Once prepared, the board is loaded onto the SMT printer, which uses a stencil to apply solder paste onto specific pads. This is a crucial step, as the precision of paste application directly impacts the quality of solder joints in the final assembly.
After SMT printer solder paste application, the next stage is inspection. Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems are often employed to verify the accuracy of paste placement. If issues are detected, adjustments can be made before proceeding. Following inspection, components are accurately placed on the PCB using pick-and-place machines. The combination of SMT printers and pick-and-place technology allows for high-speed assembly, making it suitable for mass production.
Speedline MPM Printers
Speedline MPM printers are known for their reliability and efficiency in the SMT process. Models like the MPM AccuFlex and MPM Momentum offer advanced features such as automated stencil alignment and closed-loop feedback systems that enhance placement accuracy. These printers utilize high-speed printing technology, which ensures a consistent application of solder paste even at high volumes.
The MPM printer’s software allows for easy programming and integration into existing production lines, streamlining the setup process. Users can customize profiles for different PCB designs, optimizing speed and accuracy. Speedline printers also boast robust support for various stencil types, ensuring versatility across different production requirements.
Maintenance and Spare Parts Supply
To maintain optimal performance, regular maintenance of MPM printers is crucial. This includes cleaning the printer components, inspecting the stencil, and replacing worn parts as needed. Common spare parts that may require replacement include squeegees, stencil frames, and various sensors.
When sourcing spare parts, it’s essential to work with reliable suppliers. Authorized distributors or directly contacting Speedline can ensure you receive genuine parts, which is vital for maintaining the printer’s performance and longevity. Additionally, some aftermarket suppliers offer compatible parts that may provide cost savings without compromising quality.
Conclusion
The workflow of an SMT printer, particularly with Speedline MPM models, is designed for high efficiency and precision. By understanding the workflow, leveraging advanced printing technology, and ensuring a robust supply chain for spare parts, manufacturers can achieve optimal results in their production processes. Regular maintenance and strategic sourcing of components will further enhance the longevity and performance of SMT printers, ultimately supporting the production of high-quality electronic devices.
