Surface Mount Technology (SMT) assembly requires precision at every stage, and the stencil is one of the most important tools for ensuring accurate solder paste deposition. The right stencil helps achieve strong solder joints, reduce defects, and improve overall product quality. At Helptron, we provide three types of SMT stencils to meet different assembly needs: Standard Framed SMT Stencils, Step Stencils, and Frameless SMT Stencils.
1. Standard Framed SMT Stencils
Standard framed SMT stencils are the most common type, designed for high-volume production with consistent quality.
- Function: These stencils control solder paste volume by adjusting the aperture size, ensuring uniform deposition across the PCB.
- Applications: Best suited for stable production environments where the same PCB design is used repeatedly.
- Benefits: Reliable, durable, and compatible with automatic printing machines, making them a cost-effective solution for large-scale manufacturing.
2. Step SMT Stencils
In modern electronics, different components on the same PCB often require varying amounts of solder paste. To meet these needs, step stencils are designed with areas of different thicknesses.
- Types of Step Stencils:
- Step-down (local thinning): Reduces solder paste in specific areas, useful for fine-pitch components.
- Step-up (local thickening): Increases paste volume for larger components or connectors.
- Mixed-process (dual technology): Combines step-up and step-down techniques for complex boards.
- Applications: Ideal for high-density PCBs, mixed-technology boards, or assemblies requiring precise control of solder paste.
- Benefits: Delivers better soldering performance, minimizes defects such as bridging or insufficient solder, and supports advanced product designs.
3. Frameless SMT Stencils
Frameless SMT stencils are versatile options often used in low-volume production, prototyping, or hand-printing environments.
- Function: Unlike framed stencils, frameless stencils can be mounted onto different reusable frames or used independently.
- Applications: Suitable for manual solder paste printing, R&D labs, and special SMT equipment.
- Benefits: Cost-saving, lightweight, and easy to store, making them a flexible choice for small batch runs or unique assembly needs.
Stencil Sizes and Thickness Options
To ensure flexibility for various PCB designs, we offer:
- Standard sizes: 23-inch and 29-inch stencils.
- Custom sizes: Tailored dimensions available upon request.
- Thickness range: Standard thicknesses include 0.1, 0.12, 0.13, 0.15, 0.18, and 0.2 mm. For special applications, we also provide ultra-thin or thick stencils, ranging from 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SMT stencil is essential to ensure accurate solder paste application and reliable assembly results. Whether you need standard framed stencils for mass production, step stencils for complex PCBs, or frameless stencils for flexible use, we provide customized solutions to support your manufacturing needs.
👉 Contact us today to discuss your stencil requirements and find the best fit for your PCB assembly process.