SMT Stencil
Leveraging our high-quality SMT stencil to make your surface mount PCB assembly work easier and more convenient.
What Is SMT Stencil
SMT Stencils, also known as PCB stencils, have always played an important role in surface-mount technology (SMT) assembly. They are used to deposit solder paste onto the substrate to form the necessary electrical connection between the component and the substrate. In recent years, the use of stencils has evolved beyond the traditional function of depositing solder paste. As the pitch of component leads has decreased, the use of stencils for applying adhesive has become increasingly common.
Benefits of SMT Stencil
- Wide Applications
SMT stencils can be used for almost all PCB manufacturing processes, which are not limited to any specific fabrication technique.
- High Accuracy and Consistency
It ensures that the position of the solder paste pads is highly accurate and the aperture is consistent.
- Shorten PCB Assembly Time
With SMT stencils, the paste can be applied to the entire PCB in one go, reducing the assembly time significantly.
- No Gaps in Soldering Process
Using laser-cut stencils, you can apply a smooth layer of solder past, so there are no gaps in the soldering process.
Types of STM Stencils Available at MOKO
Framed SMT Stencil
This kind of SMT stencil is fixed in the frame permanently, with the aid of a mesh border, the stencil foil can be stretched tightly which is conducive to high-accuracy printing. Compared to a frameless SMT stencils, it is more convenient as there is no need to stretch the stencil by yourself, and it is more suitable for high-volume production runs.
Frameless SMT Stencil
Frameless stencils or foils are 100% laser-cut sheets. you can use them in reusable frames. Comparatively, it offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. As a result, it is best for short runs and prototype PCB assembly. Furthermore, you can use it for both hand and machine soldering.
Prototype SMT Stencils
These stencils are made from CAD files or Gerber files and designed for hand-solder paste printing. Using prototype SMT stencils, can eliminate printing mistakes, and save you from soldering components on the circuit board to speed up the PCB assembly process.
Electroformed SMT Stencils
If you require the stencil for the most precise applications, Electroformed SMT stencils are the best solution for you. They are stencils made with electroformed foils, the raw material is nickel. The initial costs of this kind of stencil are high though, and it requires longer processing time than other stencils.
SMT Stencil FAQs
It allows manufacturers to apply solder paste correctly and uniformly, thus improving the accuracy of component placement and the quality of solder joints.
The SMT stencils are mostly made from steel but can also be made from nickel or any other steel alloys for better performance.
SMT stencils are produced using laser cutting or chemical etching on the basis of the required aperture patterns that correspond to the original layout of the PCB.
The accuracy of the stencil depends with the thickness of the stencil, size and shape of the apertures and material used. Laser cut stencils are more precise than the others in most cases.
SMT stencils are reusable if they are well cleaned and taken care of. However, if they get worn out or damaged, they should be replaced.
Choosing the right SMT stencil should consider several factors including the number of products to be produced, the design of the PCB, and whether the required products will be framed or frameless.
Yes, we at MOKO Technology can make you a uniquely designed SMT stencil based on your drawing including your PCB Gerber files to ensure that the stencil we make perfectly matches your design.
The thickness of the SMT stencils that MOKO Technology can produce ranges from0. 1mm to 0. 25mm, compatible with various PCB layouts and component sizes.
