PCB Conveyor / Support Pins: Conveyor Speed 0.5-2.0 m/min

Component Specifications

Definition

PCB conveyor and support pins are critical components within automated solder paste printing systems used in Surface Mount Technology (SMT) assembly lines. These components work in tandem: the conveyor system provides controlled linear movement to transport PCBs through the printer, while support pins (also called tooling pins or board supports) are adjustable fixtures that elevate and stabilize the PCB during the printing cycle to prevent flexing, ensure consistent solder paste deposition, and maintain registration accuracy with the stencil.

Working Principle

The conveyor system typically uses a belt-driven or rail-guided mechanism powered by stepper or servo motors to position the PCB at the printing station. Support pins are arranged in a programmable array beneath the PCB; they rise to contact and support the board's underside at multiple points (often avoiding components and traces) when the conveyor stops. This creates a rigid, level printing surface. After printing, the pins retract, and the conveyor moves the PCB to the next station. The system synchronizes with vision systems and squeegee mechanisms.

Materials

Conveyor belts/rails: Often made from static-dissipative materials like conductive polyurethane or stainless steel. Support pins: Typically constructed from hardened steel (e.g., AISI 440C) or stainless steel (e.g., 303, 304) for durability and corrosion resistance. Tips may feature non-marring materials like Delrin or nylon to prevent PCB damage. Springs inside provide adjustable tension.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Repeatability	±0.02 mm
Conveyor Speed	0.5-2.0 m/min
Conveyor Width	300-500 mm (standard)
Max PCB Weight	5-10 kg
Positioning Accuracy	±0.05 mm
Support Pin Load Capacity	1-5 kg per pin
Pin Height Adjustment Range	0-20 mm

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 14644-1, IPC-A-610, IPC-J-STD-001, DIN EN 61512-1

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Automated Solder Paste Printer

A precision machine that automatically deposits solder paste onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) for surface-mount technology (SMT) assembly.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

PCB misalignment due to conveyor slippage
Insufficient support causing board flex and print defects
Pin contamination leading to paste smearing
Mechanical wear reducing positioning accuracy
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage if not properly grounded

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Worn conveyor belt or misaligned rails
Failure: PCB positional inaccuracy, leading to misregistration with stencil
Mitigation: Implement regular belt inspection and alignment checks; use encoder feedback for real-time position correction.

Trigger: Incorrect support pin height or placement
Failure: PCB flexure during printing, causing uneven paste deposition or bridging
Mitigation: Utilize automatic pin programming software; verify pin map against PCB design data; perform routine height calibration.

Trigger: Accumulation of solder paste on pins or conveyor
Failure: Contamination of PCB underside, smearing, or impaired pin movement
Mitigation: Establish frequent cleaning schedules; use protective covers or wipers; select materials resistant to paste adhesion.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

DEK Horizon, Ekra X5, Fuji NXT, ASM SIPLACE, Yamaha YSP

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

DEK, Ekra, Fuji, ASM, Yamaha, Universal Instruments

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Positional tolerance ±0.05 mm; pin height repeatability ±0.01 mm; flatness tolerance ≤0.1 mm/m

Test Method

Laser interferometry for positional accuracy; dial gauge for pin height verification; vision system inspection for print alignment post-installation.

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

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Manufacturers of PCB Conveyor / Support Pins

Manufacturer profiles associated with PCB Conveyor / Support Pins.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do support pins prevent solder paste bleeding?

Support pins provide uniform, stable backing to the PCB, eliminating board flex during squeegee pressure. This maintains consistent contact between the PCB and stencil, preventing paste from bleeding under the stencil apertures.

Can support pins damage delicate PCBs?

Properly designed pins with non-marring tips (e.g., Delrin) and adjustable spring tension minimize risk. Pins should be positioned to avoid contacting sensitive components, traces, or vias, often using programmable pin mapping software.

How often should conveyor belts and support pins be maintained?

Conveyor belts require regular cleaning to remove paste debris and inspection for wear; support pins should be checked monthly for corrosion, spring fatigue, and tip integrity. Lubrication of moving parts per manufacturer guidelines is essential.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

PCB Conveyor / Support Pins