Assembly of Circuit Boards
PCBs can be very sensitive to the environment in which they are assembled and tested. This means they can be damaged by static electricity. Fortunately, there are many safety precautions taken during the assembly of circuit boards that can help prevent this from happening.
One of the most important steps is ensuring that all equipment used in the production process is properly maintained and cleaned. This includes the use of special equipment that can remove tin and lead from the copper traces on the board to make them more suitable for soldering. This is done by using a chemical mix of nitric acid and ferric ions that is poured onto the board. This is an extremely dangerous operation, and it must be performed by highly trained technicians.
Another important step in ensuring the safety of flex pcb fabrication is to minimize the amount of physical handling that is necessary. This can be accomplished by using automated inspection (AOI) equipment to replace manual labor. However, even when this is not possible, all personnel must handle circuit boards carefully. This means that they must wear a face mask and lint-free gown or smock to avoid damaging the components. They must also ensure that the work area is clean and free of dust and other contaminants.
Safety Precautions Taken During the Assembly of Circuit Boards
Printed circuit boards can also be susceptible to damage caused by moisture. To prevent this, they must be stored in airtight containers with desiccant packets that will absorb any moisture that might have accumulated on the board. This prevents the copper traces on the board from oxidizing and causing electrical problems. The board must be kept in a cool, dry place until it is ready to be assembled.
It is vitally important that any person handling a circuit board adheres to strict ESD (electrostatic discharge) protocols. This involves working in a designated ESD work area, wearing an anti-static wrist strap that is connected to ground, and using a conductive mat or other device to dissipate static charge. It is also important to wear slip-resistant boots, as electrostatic charges can transfer from the feet to the ground and potentially cause damage to the board.
All workers must also ensure that they have a clean and neat work area, and they should be wearing appropriate footwear. They should also be using a can of compressed air that has been specially treated to remove any dust or contaminants that could harm the circuit board. Additionally, they should not touch the component leads with their bare hands, as oil and dirt can contaminate the board and affect its performance and longevity. It is best to use gloves to avoid this, or a special hand cream that has been formulated to avoid contamination. This will not only keep the hands from getting dirty, but it will also protect them from the harsh chemicals used in the production process. In addition, any food or drink should not be consumed in the work area, as it can also contaminate the circuit board.
