Z-AXIS uses PCB depaneling to separate individual printed circuit boards (PCBs) from multiple identical boards. Learn why.
Increased Efficiency, Reduced Labor
Z-AXIS assembles printed circuit boards, or PCBs, on panels or arrays that contain multiple identical boards. By processing PCBs like this, we work more efficiently than handling one board at a time.
Our approach saves labor since there’s just one panel to load and unload during production. Panels also help when parts are so close to the edges of boards that frames or fixtures are needed for clearance and gripping.
When PCB assembly is complete, individual boards need to be separated in a process known as depaneling. This requires care and precision because of mechanical stresses in the boards.
PCB Depaneling and Bending Stress
Most rectangular PCBs are V-scored to show where separation should occur. The bare board manufacturer cuts a third of the way through from both sides. Yet bending and snapping a board can damage its surface-mounted components, solder joints, or traces.
That’s why Z-AXIS uses special tools and equipment to separate boards with less bending stress. Depending on the board, we use a guillotine or pizza cutter.
Guillotine Machine and Hook Tool
The guillotine machine is used for thin boards and cuts with a pair of sharp, opposing blades. The pizza cutter is used for thicker boards and has a pair of rotary blades that look like a pizza slicer.
When boards have curves and other shapes that come pre-routed, often with tabs and drilled perforations, we use a special hook tool that removes the tabs without putting stress on the board.
All these methods put some mechanical stress on the boards, but there is a stress-free way to depanel PCBs without risking damage to sensitive parts like ceramic capacitors or the end caps on resistors.
Stress-Free PCB Depaneling
UV laser depaneling makes very precise, narrow cuts in any shape and while holding very tight tolerances in the finished assembly. It also helps designers to maximize the use of board space.
Whether your printed circuit boards are large, small, thick, or thin, Z-AXIS uses the best method to depanel them with speed and efficiency.
Contact Z-AXIS to discuss your electronics design and manufacturing project.