What is an SMT machine – different types and top-rated manufacturers

Types of SMT assembly machines

1. Pick-and-place machines

Pick-and-place SMT machines are of three types: manual, semi-automatic, and automatic. They help to put parts in the right spot on a PCB. Manual machines require the operator to place each component by hand. Semi-automatic machines automate the process of placing some components, but the operator is still responsible for most of the placement. Automatic machines completely automate the process of component placement.

2. SMT curing oven

Surface mount technology (SMT) curing ovens are typically bench-top models with a heating element on the bottom and a fan for circulation, mostly utilized to solder paste, adhesives and solder reflow. The production volume will directly affect the amount of solder paste baking, adhesive curing, and solder reflow that we can do. The ovens come in many sizes to be able to accommodate either batch or inline processing.

The most common type of SMT curing oven is the belt model. The belt moves the product through the oven while the heating element and fan keep it at a consistent temperature. The time required to bake/cure products depend on their size, weight and configuration, but usually ranges from 5-10 minutes.

3. Solder paste screen printer

A solder paste screen printer is used for screen printing which is a manufacturing process that involves depositing a thin film of material (in this case, solder paste) onto a screen, which is then forced through by a squeegee and deposited onto the desired surface, the machine prints solder paste onto a substrate in order to attach electronic components. This method is often used for producing large quantities of items with uniformity.

4. Reflow soldering machine

A reflow soldering machine is a type of SMT machine that is used to solder reflow from surface mount devices (SMDs) to a circuit board. The machine heats the solder on the SMD until it liquefies. Then, the molten solder will flow onto the circuit board and solidify to attach itself. 

This type of soldering is often used in mass production because it is an automated process that can be done quickly and reliably. The Reflow Soldering Machine, on average, accounts for approximately one-fourth of the total cost of a Surface Mount Technology (SMT) device.

5. Solvent cleaning equipment

The purpose of solvent cleaning equipment is to clean and remove the leftover flux and solder from a PCB. By doing so, the quality as well as lifespan of the board increases.

The most common type of solvent-cleaning equipment is a spray gun. It uses a solvent to dissolve the flux and solder, thereby allowing them to be removed from the PCB. Other types of solvents include immersion tanks, ultrasonic baths, and washers.

6. Inspection equipment

SMT machines, like Inspection equipment, are used to look for defects on a PCB. The most short needs to be looked for is the most common defect. A short can cause the PCB to fail, so it’s important to identify and fix them before they become a problem. 

There are a variety of inspection equipment available, each with their own purpose. X-ray machines allow for a closer look at the inner workings of an object, while microscopes help to magnify smaller details. Circuit testers can check for electrical defects or damage.