Component insertion machine

Types of Component Insertion Machines

A component insertion machine is used to insert electronic components into printed circuit boards (PCBs). Different types of component insertion machines are based on the following:

• Automation Models

  Component insertion machines are divided into automated, semi-automated, and manual models. Fully automated models are great for large-scale production due to high-speed insertion. Manual models are affordable but labour intensive.

• Inserting Methods

  Insertion machines are based on how electronic components are inserted into the board. Pitch pushing machines are commonly used for components with a wide spacing. Vacuum placement machines are used for components with tight spacing or when precision is required. Automatic feeders are used for components with repetitive insertion.

• Insertion Speed

  Insertion Speed is another way to classify insertion machines. Some machines insert components at a constant speed. Others have varying speeds depending on the component being worked on.

• Board Size Capability

  Some component insertion machines are used for small boards while others are used for larger size capacity. The adjustment and fixture ability determine if the machine can handle a certain size.

For more complicated insertions, the component insertion machine is divided into sequential and simultaneous modes. In the sequential method, components are inserted one at a time in a specific order while in the simultaneous method, different components are inserted at the same time.

Specifications and maintenance of component insertion machines

Specifications

• Max board size: 24X20in/610x508mm.
• Min board size: 6X6in/152x152mm.
• Max component height: 6in/152mm.
• Max speed: 1200-1800CPH.
• Accuracy: +/-0.02mm.
• Duty cycle: Continuous.
• Pneumatic pressure: 0.3-0.7MPa.
• Power supply: 220V/1.5kW.
• Total weight: 500kg.

Maintenance tips

• Daily inspection: Check for loose, damaged or missing components. Ensure all fasteners are tightly secured. Examine the electrical connections and wires for any signs of wear or exposure. Look for signs of air or hydraulic leakages. Inspect the pick-and-place head assembly for any debris or component residue.
• Clean up the work area; Ensure the component insertion machine's work area is clean and tidy. Remove the used assembly boards, components, and other debris to prevent them from falling into the insertion machine, affecting its performance. Maintain a safe space around the machine to eliminate tripping hazards and fire risks.
• Lubricate moving parts: Regularly apply grease to the moving parts of the machines, such as guide rails, sliders, gears, and bearings, to allow smooth operation of the machine.
• Replace air/oil filters: Replace the air/oil filters on the pneumatic and lubrication systems of the component insertion machine regularly to ensure that the air and oil supplied to the machine are clean and free of impurities.

Note

• This schedule will vary for some machines based on usage. Always consult the equipment manufacturer's manual for specific maintenance guidelines and schedules.

Applications of Component Insertion Machines

Mechanical insertion of components onto printed circuit boards is an essential tool for the electronics industry. Component insertion machines are vital for manufacturing mobile phones, laptops, computers, television sets, video game consoles, and other electronic devices that require complex circuit boards.

As devices become smaller, faster, and smarter, the demand for efficient component insertion machines will likely increase. Precision insertion machines that can handle delicate, intricate parts are expected to be in demand, along with flexible machines that can quickly adapt to changing production needs. As the trend toward miniaturization in electronics continues, the need for speed and efficiency in component insertion will only grow.

As more devices require circuit boards, the need for high-quality component insertion is expected to grow. The automotive industry is quickly becoming one of the more significant users of component insertion machines as electric and self-driving vehicles expand. Insertion machines are also essential for making medical equipment, industrial machinery, and consumer goods with complex electronic components.

Because human error can slow down the production of items that require component insertion, these machines are also valuable in industries where speed is essential. Component insertion machines are invaluable where multiple circuit boards must be assembled daily. The high volume of product assembly required in the telecommunications and computer industries makes component insertion machines essential for maintaining production rates.

The rapid advancement in technology means that new ways of improving component insertion machines will continue to emerge. Improvements in these machines will aid many industries that rely on the efficient production of electronic devices. As the pace of technological development increases, the need for precise, fast component insertion machines will continue to grow in all industries that rely on circuit boards.

How to choose a component insertion machine

Buyers looking to invest in component insertion machines must, first of all, assess their production scale. The production scale will determine the type of insertion machine they need to buy. For instance, for small-scale production, a manual insertion machine will be sufficient. But, in the case of large-scale production, the buyer will need to invest in automatic or semi-automatic machines.

Apart from the production scale, buyers should also evaluate the type of PCB they will be working on. As earlier mentioned, different component insertion machines are designed to work on different types of PCBs. As a result, buyers should look for machines that suit the type of board they will be working on.

Their budget will also determine the type of insertion machine buyers will go for. Buyers must note that component insertion machines come at different prices depending on the level of automation, capacity, features, and specifications. Buyers should set a budget and find machines that fall within their budget range. Also, they should ensure that the machines they choose fulfil their production needs.

Moreover, buyers should consider the skills of the workers they intend to use in the component insertion process. If the workers do not have the necessary skills, the buyer will need to invest in a semi-automatic or automatic machine. This is because these types of machines are easier to operate than manual machines, which require skilled workers.

Additionally, buyers should consider the feeder system of the component insertion machine. Component feeders have a different way of working for various types of components—both in the shape and size of the component. Buyers should go for machines with flexible feeder systems that can work for different types of PCBs.

Finally, buyers should ensure the component insertion machines they choose have the features they need for their specific PCB assembly. For instance, some buyers may need machines with optical centring systems for precise placement. While some buyers will look for insertion machines with programmable controllers for easy operation and flexibility.

FAQ

Q1: Which machine inserts components into a PCB?

A1: The component insertion machines, also known as pick-and-place machines, insert electronic components onto PCBs. The component insertion machines can insert specific components, such as chips, resistors, capacitors, and connectors, accurately and quickly.

Q2: What are the two main types of component insertion machines?

A2: The two main types are the automatic insertion machine, which places components on a PCB without user intervention, and the selective soldering component insertion machine, which selectively solders components to a pre-programmed pattern or sequence.

Q3: What are component insertion machines made of?

A3: The component insertion machines usually have a structure made of aluminum alloy, which is strong and light. Heavy aluminum alloy materials are often used in the feed, guide rails, brackets, etc., which make them stable at high speeds and have a high insertion rate.

Q4: What are component insertion machines used for?

A4: The component insertion machines are the key processes in the pipeline of making PCBs. They are mainly used to insert various electronic components into the holes or pads of a printed circuit board accurately and rapidly. Besides, they are also used to improve the quality and yield of the product.