In today’s factories and manufacturing facilities, automation is everywhere and it is difficult to imagine a production or assembly line without it. Industrial automation uses control systems and equipment, such as computer software and robots, to perform tasks that were historically done manually. These systems operate equipment automatically, significantly reducing the level of operator involvement and oversight required. Automation technologies often consist of feedback loops and sensory programs that automatically adjust operating parameters as necessary based on real-time data. The automation technologies used in PCB assembly have advanced significantly in recent years due to the digitalization of manufacturing, especially with the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) – opening up more opportunities for companies to take advantage of the benefits of PCBA automation.

Innovations in automation enable manufacturers to more easily mass produce and assemble PCBs. Automation, and the efficiency it brings to PCB production and assembly, has become a vital component in electronics manufacturing. Automation can occur during the design phase all the way through PCB assembly. Companies should work with their manufacturing partner to design with automation in mind. OEMs should also be mindful of the order of post-production steps as well as component orientation to ensure efficiency during assembly. These design considerations help ensure automated PCBA processes downstream are optimized and efficient.

There are several types of PCBA automation technologies and the value added comes in different forms. Automated PCBA technologies deliver speed and precision, resulting in lower cycle times and higher product quality. With automated PCB assembly, personnel no longer have to execute the repetitive, time-consuming tasks – reducing the risk of human error and allowing personnel to focus on more value-added responsibilities. Additionally, highly-automated PCB assembly processes can be controlled by as little as one operator, further reducing labor and manufacturing costs. Below is a deeper dive into the many benefits of automation in PCB assembly and the value it delivers. At RIS, PCB assembly is a core competency. Watch our short video to learn more about our PCBA solutions and our commitment to quality.

· Increased Efficiency: printed circuit boards have historically been assembled manually, leading to slow production with more frequent quality issues. Alternatively, automated PCB assembly manufacture significantly higher volumes in a much shorter time period. Automated processes can work 24/7 with occasional outages for maintenance, all without sacrificing quality. This is clearly faster and higher quality than human operators can perform. For this reason, increased efficiency and higher through-put rates are two of the biggest benefits of automation in PCB assembly Additionally, robots are typically more versatile and flexible than humans as changes can simply be programmed into the PCBA automation software, eliminating the need for personnel training and providing a quick turnaround for production changes – further increasing operations productivity.

· Decreased Downtime: in addition to elevated efficiency, automation also allows companies to collect valuable data from the assembly line that can be used to improve maintenance. Predictive maintenance is a new approach that is largely made possible with the IIoT and smart manufacturing. Real-time data is used to identify potential issues and alert operations personnel when maintenance is needed, reducing manufacturing downtimes which leads to higher operations efficiency and lower costs.

At RIS, PCB assembly is one of our core competencies. We provide reliable, seamlessly-assembled printed circuit board systems built with extreme precision. Our skilled engineers, technicians, and assemblers work to expertly put together a complete PCBA. When you choose RIS for your PCBA projects, you can expect the hands-on customer care of a small manufacturing operation and the capabilities characteristic of a much larger company with our complete electronics manufacturing services for OEMs in any industry. Our electronics assembly expertise includes:

· Surface Mount Technology (Fine-pitch, BGA (1 mm), µBGA (.4 mm), 01005, X-Ray, automated rework, and automated optical inspection (AOI))

· Magazine to Magazine handling

· Smart Shelving floor stock inventory control

· X-ray reel counting

· Lead-through auto-insertion (Axial, Radial, DIP, and Zierick Terminals)

· Wave Solder and Selective Solder Machines (No-clean & aqueous flux processes) RoHS and Tin/Lead capabilities

· Special Application Equipment (Robotic dispensing systems)

· Conformal coating (Silicone, Acrylic, Urethane)

· Potting (Epoxy, Urethane, and Silicone)

· Low-pressure molding technology

· Comprehensive product test

· 3D Printing

Contact us today at (507) 523-3220 to see how we can help with your PCB assembly needs, or click here for a quote.