The pick-and-place machine nozzles play a significant role in the placement rate (SMT placement rate) in PCB manufacturing companies. Many people value the SMT placement rate because it not only affects the production cost of the production line but also influences the operational efficiency of the production workshop. Let’s briefly introduce how nozzles affect the SMT placement rate!
- Internal Factors: Firstly, insufficient vacuum negative pressure is an internal factor affecting the placement rate. Before picking up components from the nozzles, the mechanical valve on the mounting head switches from blowing to suction, creating the corresponding negative pressure. After picking up components, if the detection value of the negative pressure sensor is within the appropriate range, the machine operates normally; otherwise, the suction force is insufficient. Generally, the negative pressure at the nozzle where components are picked up should be at least 400mmHg, and for large equipment, it should exceed 70mmHg. Therefore, regular cleaning of the filters in the vacuum pump is necessary to ensure sufficient negative pressure. Additionally, the filters on the mounting head and nozzles may become dirty due to pollution and blockage from the surrounding environment or impure air sources. Hence, regular maintenance of the filters is required. Typically, the filters on the nozzles should be replaced at least every 15 days, and those on the mounting head should be replaced at least every six months to ensure smooth airflow.
- External Factors: Secondly, pressure leakage in the air source circuit due to aging or cracking of rubber hoses, aging or damage of seals, and nozzle wear after long-term use are external factors affecting the placement rate. Moreover, nozzles may get blocked due to dust in adhesives or debris generated after cutting components packaged in woven paper. Therefore, the cleanliness of the nozzles must be inspected daily. Nozzle cleaning can be performed using the Silman Tech nozzle cleaning machine, which operates with high-pressure water mist, fully pneumatically, without damaging the nozzles, while monitoring the removal of nozzles in real-time. Blocked or problematic nozzles should be dealt with or replaced promptly to ensure their proper functioning. Additionally, proper and secure installation of nozzles is essential to prevent damage to the nozzles or the machine equipment.
These are the effects of pick-and-place machine nozzles on the placement rate. We hope this information is helpful to you.
