Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1088168
32 SMT007 MAGAZINE I MARCH 2019 2. Opt for the Most Efficient Packaging The format in which devices are supplied can vary widely—especially when it comes to integrated circuits (ICs). Typical IC packaging methods can include waffle trays, tubes, and reels—each of which are often differentiated by a specific letter or number at the end of the part number. If you're aiming for optimum efficiency, then taped and reeled parts are preferable as the use of tubed components relies on hav- ing operators on hand to change the parts over as the tubes become empty, which can delay the manufacturing process. There are, of course, certain situations where requesting taped and reeled parts simply may not be vi- able such as in the case of new product intro- ductions (NPIs) where batch sizes are typically smaller. In those situations, it probably won't make commercial sense to purchase a larger quantity of device just so you can receive it in a taped and reeled format. If you do decide to change a part from be- ing in tubed packaging to tape and reel, you will also want to make sure that the quality of the seal on the cover tape is sufficient. A poor-quality seal increases the risk of the cover tape dislodging, which can mean components could become damaged or lost. 3. Avoid Splicing Components Sometimes, a combination of smaller amounts of taped and reeled components may need to be spliced together to create one larger, continuous strip. But if this splicing is poorly executed, there is an increased chance that the tape could become stuck in the surface mount machine feeders. And if the cover tape pulls away from the carrier tape, then you will be left with a jammed machine that will need to be resolved by an operator, leading to costly downtime. 4. Plan for Things to Not Always Go to Plan Inherent within the manufacturing process is the knowledge that things occasionally don't go quite as expected. If a surface mount ma- chine misplaces, drops, or damages a compo- nent, and you don't have more of that compo- nent in stock, then you're likely to be left with two tough choices. You can opt to carry on with the SMT build regardless and fit the part by hand once it arrives, or you can halt the job while you order (and wait for) the replace- ment part. The reality is that neither option is especially ideal. Fitting parts by hand can af- fect quality, increase the risk of damage, and impact your lead times. Meanwhile, opting to halt the job means your machines are sitting idle and costing you money. Building attrition into your kit of parts may cost you a small amount at the outset, but it can potentially save you hundreds of pounds in additional rework. So, whenever possible, make sure you request a few more of each component than you actually think you're go- ing to need. The smallest of details can have a massive impact on the efficiency of your PCBA production. By having a program in place to continually monitor and refine your processes, you will be able to identify and eliminate what is not working, retain a firm hand on quality, and boost your profitability. SMT007 Neil Sharp is the director of marketing for JJS Manufacturing. A poor-quality seal increases the risk of the cover tape dislodging, which can mean components could become damaged or lost.