PCB Depaneling Using Router-type Machine, Laser, or Diamond Cutter

ceramic PCB depaneling at PCBONLINE

At PCBONLINE, we manufacture and assemble the PCBs under one roof. The PCBAs are usually assembled on a panel, and before we ship them to you, we will depanel the panel board into multiple single PCBAs. With PCB depaneling at the end of our PCB manufacturing or PCB assembly, you don't need to separate the panel on your own, saving your efforts and avoiding damage.

The PCB depaneling process separates individual Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) from a larger production panel. At PCBONLINE, our depaneling methods ensure precision and protect component integrity. We use an automatic router machine to depanel FR4 and other normal PCBs. For ceramic PCBs, especially round ceramic PCBs, we use laser depaneling. PCBONLINE takes care of all details, including PCB depaneling, ensuring high-quality PCBA manufacturing.

Automatic Router Machine Depaneling

At the turnkey PCB assembly factory of PVBONLINE, there's a router-type PCB paneling machine, which depanels the PCBA panel installed in the fixture according to our programmed procedures.

Our PCB depaneling after PCB assembly using an automatic router-type machine offers superior accuracy. This method is ideal for FR4 PCBs, PTFE PCBs, rigid-flex PCBs, and metal-core PCBs. Flexible PCBs are easy to depanel by hand and don't require routing.

The advantage of using an automatic router-type PCB depaneling machine is that it precisely cuts PCBs without causing damage and depanels efficiently.

How PCB depaneling using a router-type machine works:

• Secure fixturing: The PCBA panel is secured in the upper and bottom fixtures. The upper board guides the router for accurate cuts.
• Precision routing: The router follows pre-programmed paths to separate individual boards. It prevents component stress and maintains PCB/PCBA integrity.
• Dust control: A vacuum hose is integrated near the holes of the bottom fixture. It instantly removes dust and scraps and keeps the work area clean. It also protects the PCBs from contamination.

PCB depaneling using an automatic router machine ensures consistent results. This method is fast and reliable.

Ceramic PCB Depaneling: Laser and Diamond Cutting

Ceramic PCBs are hard and fragile. We use a controllable laser to depanel ceramic PCBs, especially round ceramic PCBs. We can also use a diamond cutter to depanel rectangular-shaped ceramic PCBs. We don't use the router machine because it either doesn't have the power to cut ceramics or may break the ceramic PCBs.

For ceramic PCB depaneling, our engineers design the edge rails and program laser/diamond cutter specifications based on board dimensions.

Round ceramic PCB depaneling: laser cutting

PCBONLINE uses a programmable laser for round ceramic PCB depaneling. A highly controllable laser performs the cutting. It precisely follows design lines. The laser method is non-contact and reduces mechanical stress on the board.

As the laser generates a lot of heat, to reduce carbonization of ceramics, we use nitrogen to protect the laser cutting area. Cutting occurs at the fastest speed to minimize carbon accumulation.

Features of laser depaneling for ceramic PCBs:

• Precision cutting: The laser accurately cuts the ceramic substrate. It follows designed lines and widths.
• Shape versatility: It handles both rectangular and round ceramic PCBs. This flexibility is a major advantage.
• Easy separation: The remaining thickness (1/3 of the ceramic PCB) can be easily broken off with a pair of pliers without damage to the board. This separates individual PCBAs.

Besides, if the round ceramic PCB size is large enough and should be depanelized into single PCBs before PCB assembly, PCBONLINE can design and provide the custom fixtures to place them onto the fixture for SMT surface mount assembly.

Rectangular ceramic PCB depaneling: diamond cutter

For rectangular ceramic PCBs, we can also use a diamond cutter. This method is similar to V-cut depaneling, which operates at room temperature. This method is only suitable for straight lines. It is ideal for rectangular boards.

Features of diamond cutting for ceramic PCBs:

• No carbonization: Room-temperature operating eliminates heat-related issues. There is no carbonization.
• Straight line capability: Only suitable for PCB depaneling with straight lines.
• Clean separation: The diamond cutter provides clean, precise cuts. It ensures component safety.

Edge Rails in PCB Depaneling

PCB edge rails are critical for efficient depaneling. They facilitate the safe separation of PCBs. They prevent damage to components near board edges.

Purpose of edge rails:

• Support during depanelization: Edge rails provide structural support. This ensures safe separation. It protects components and the board.
• Securing during PCB assembly: Edge rails provide space for handling and holding the panel during the PCB assembly process.
• Breakaway features: Effective breakaway features are implemented. These include V-cuts and mouse bites. They enable smooth separation.

Types of breakaway features:

V-cuts: These are shallow, V-shaped cuts. They run along the PCB edge. Boards can be snapped apart easily. Typical angles are 30°-45°. Web thickness ranges from 0.3mm–0.5mm.

Mouse bites: These are small perforations. They are along the edge rail. They allow for easy snapping of the PCB.

Tab routing: This prevents excessive mechanical stress. It maintains structural integrity. Tab width is typically 0.8mm–1.2mm.

Half-holes: This method involves lines of half-holes. They are created at the edges of PCB boards. These half holes are for soldering to another PCB. A milling tool cuts plated-through holes in half. Glitches are removed if they appear. Aperture range for half holes is 0.5mm to 1.2mm. Center-to-center distance is 0.75mm to 1.27mm. Surface finish is usually hard gold plating. This method applies to unconventional-shaped boards. It provides a mechanical connection to another PCB board.

Edge rails are an essential design element. They contribute to damage-free PCB depaneling.

Partner with PCBONLINE for One-stop PCB Manufacturing and Assembly

For high-quality PCB manufacturing and assembly services that include PCB depaneling, consider working with PCBONLINE. Founded in 2005, PCBONLINE has two advanced PCB manufacturing bases, one turnkey PCB assembly factory, stable supply chains, and an R&D team.

We provide advanced PCB manufacturing, PCB assembly, and box-build assembly from prototypes to mass production. You don't have to test and depanel the PCBs/PCBAs/finished devices, as we handle all the processes and details for you.

We ensure precision in every step, including PCB depaneling, PCB manufacturing, and PCB assembly. To get a quote for your PCB/PCBA/box-build project, or if you want any R&D suggestions, please contact info@pcbonline.com.

Conclusion

PCBONLINE's professionalism and commitment to quality are evident in PCB depaneling. Our PCB depaneling methods, including using an automatic router machine, laser, or diamond cutter, ensure precision. If you want PCB manufacturing and assembly services that include PCB depaneling, PCBONLINE can provide turnkey electronics manufacturing for you.