There are several PCB manufacturing methods that a PCB can be submitted to before reaching the final product. These methods include preparing the board’s surface, placing components, soldering, cleaning, and inspection and testing. Telan Corporation has been providing reliable PCB manufacturing methods for over 35 years. We offer a variety of assembly and solder techniques to meet the unique needs of your PCB.
There are several PCB manufacturing methods that a PCB can be submitted to before reaching the final product. These methods include preparing the board’s surface, placing components, soldering, cleaning, and inspection and testing. Telan Corporation has been providing reliable PCB manufacturing methods for over 35 years. We offer a variety of assembly and solder techniques to meet the unique needs of your PCB.
Through-Hole Technology - Through-Hole Technology was the reigning PCB assembly process from the 1940s-1980s. Component leads are threaded through pre-drilled holes in the board, criss-crossing on the reverse side. This creates a stronger bond between components and the board, making them reliable for larger components that are subjected to high voltage, power and mechanical stress. However, this process involves lengthy production times and limits components to one side of the board.
Surface-Mount Technology - Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) replaced Through-Hole Technology as the industry standard in the 1980s. Its popularity is due in large part to the ability to place components in high density on both sides of the board, allowing for more powerful and compact board designs. Production times are also faster with SMT since the boards do not need to be drilled.
Mixed technology combines the best aspects of both these process. To produce mixed boards, they are first put through the SMT process, then submitted to Through-Hole Technology.
Wave soldering - The is the best method for boards that require a large amount of soldering at one time in a small area. Before wave soldering, the PCB and components are washed with flux and preheated to prevent thermal shock. Wave soldering uses a pump to create a wave in a pan of molten solder. The PCBs are passed over the pan and the waves solder the components. Depending on the type of flux and solder used, the PCBs may require cleaning afterwards with deionized water or solvents.
Selective soldering - If your PCB requires a precision soldering technique, selective soldering is the way to go. The board and components are not subjected to the same heat levels as wave soldering, protecting more delicate components. Selective soldering is also used if a majority of components have already been soldered to the board, such as in mixed technology applications.
Telan Corporation has the experience and equipment necessary to produce quality, dependable products, no matter what PCB manufacturing methods you need. Call us at 215-997-7603 to learn more about our proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.