Do you struggle with attaching SMDs to a PCB with bare hands? It’s time to switch to an SMT stencil! Unlike usual soldering, SMT stencils make your soldering much faster and easier, while ensuring consistency.
SMT stencil helps move solder paste to a circuit board before you can apply your components. It’s also known as solder paste stencil, PCB stencil, laser stencil, etc. At SoonEasy, we offer SMT stenciling and PCB manufacturing services at affordable rates. This blog will guide you about SMT stencils and their importance in electronics.
SMT or surface mount technology stencil is used in PCB assembly for smooth transferring of solder paste on a bare circuit board. For this process, you need a stainless steel foil laser cut to precision, creating an opening for each PCB component. Once you add this stencil over PCB, the solder paste is adequately deposited on the board through these openings. Then you can remove the steel foil, and your board will be ready for assembly. Compared to manual soldering, SMT stenciling is more precise, quick, and consistent.
You have to be careful about the amount of solder paste you use on the board because too much of it can lead to tomb-stoning, solder bridging, or bailing. On the other hand, too little paste can cause unreliable solder joints. Both ways, you will get an inefficient circuit board, so depositing the right amount of solder paste is crucial.
Manual hand-based soldering can cause the following serious issues:
By using an SMT stencil, you can avoid all these issues and execute flawless soldering. The manual method may not give you the right consistency for your project, and you end up with an inefficient board. Here are the benefits of using an SMT stencil:
At SoonEasy, we offer high-precision stainless steel stencils starting from just $7! Our stencils have been laser cut using state-of-the-art LPKF machines so you can get a smooth and seamless soldering experience. You can also get printed circuit board assembly from us for quick and efficient results.
Besides circuit board stencils, we offer PCB manufacturing and assembly service. We pride ourselves in offering the lowest prices PCB in China with a 24-hour quick turnaround. Get a free quote now or contact us for details.