1. The Through Hole Insertion Process
Through hole insertion assembly is the process of inserting manually or automatically conventional leaded radial, axial and odd form devices into a PCB which are in turn soldered on the opposite side of the board by various means. Although the majority of devices and components are now SMT surface mount packages, there is still a large number of mixed technology and legacy products which still contain a number of through hole components. These products tend to be for miltary and harsh environment applications due to the increased manufactured tolerances of through hole manufacture.
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2. Through Hole Insertion Applications
Applications for through hole technology are varied, with legacy and military applications using axial, radial and odd form devices still abundant. However newer applications particularly in LED lighting and displays are becoming more popular, due to the power/price of through hole LED's compared to current surface mount equivalents.
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3. Through Hole Insertion Machine Types
Equipment to help in the insertion of through hole components can be either semi-automatic cut and clinch systems up to fully automatic insertion systems capable of inserting over 20,000 components per hour.
Cut and clinch systems offer manufacturers a reliable and ergonomic method for low volume insertion operations. Usually these systems offer a light guided insertion position for the component, which once manually inserted is automatically cut and clinched by the pressing of a foot pedal.
Automatic systems are generally seperated into two categories, namely Axial Insertion and Radial insertion.
Axial insertion machines are dedicated to the insertion of axial components( components with leads coming out of opposite ends of the device), whils Radial inserters are used for the insertion of radial components( components with leads exiting from a common side of the device). Both systems use a sequencer or feed device to supply the lead forming and insertion head with components which in turn inserts, cuts and clinches automatically.
Special machines are also available which are dedicated to jumper wire insertion.
Placement systems are also available for insertion of odd form devices such as transformers, relays etc, however these are normally pick and place systems with modified grippers etc.
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4. Troubleshooting Through Hole Insertion Problems
Proper maintenance and calibration of through hole insertion systems will ensure continued relaibility and success. However if this is not kept on top of, mechanical gremlins can come forward.
Incorrect lead to hole ration will cause insertion problems and is one of the main contributors to insertion errors.
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5. Expert Advice..
Please visit individual supplier websites for further detailed information. Browse manufacturers through hole insertion machines here
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