Table of Contents
1. Why do we need an X-ray to inspect PCB?
The foremost concern of manufacturers that often result in embarrassing situations is the adequate inspection of product quality.
The production of PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) is not without this challenge. Based on the high demand for PCBs in electronics and other devices, finding the perfect quality inspection method becomes even more paramount for manufacturers.
The X-ray inspection method for PCB is beneficial for identifying external defects and internal irregularities. Other methods like AOI (automatic optical inspection) cannot accurately detect these anomalies due to challenges like casting shadows and tightly packed chips.
X-ray inspection improves PCB’s mass production by spotting defects like cracks and soldering defects that slow down the production processes. These delays can also lead to a loss of resources and sometimes even loss of business opportunities.
X-ray is essential for inspecting multilayer package arrangement in the case of BGA mounting systems. More than one layer of chips makes it difficult for other methods of inspection to be effective.
X-rays are absorbed at different rates by different materials according to their densities. The absorptions enable x-ray to detect the usage of the right material to manufacture PCBs and other associated devices.
2. Famous brands of PCB X-ray machines
There are well-known brands of x-ray PCB machines from different manufacturers around the world. These manufacturers are known for certain qualities that form the individual advantages they have over other competing manufacturers.
YXLON is a German brand known for its fast, high-quality image rendering in both 2D and 3D, with excellent user experience. It comes with a flat-panel detector, an x-ray tube technology, and a real-time report generation and communication capability.
Baker Hughes is a United States’ brand known for its image magnification of 300kV. A high scanning speed with automated computational processing and real-time report generation all feature in this machine. It’s an industry leader in detector performance and high image quality.
Uni X-ray is a Chinese brand known for its quality-centered innovations in machine design. Features of Uni X-ray include high image magnification and resolution, with exceptional inspection capability for soldering and joints at various tilt angles.
Uni X-ray has advanced computational processing for accurate results with minimal maintenance requirements. Uni X-ray meets very high certification standards of the FDA.
Bosello High Technology is an Italian brand well-known for its self-contained steel cabinet and its microfocus source of 150kV. It also comes with a flat-panel detector and an easy CT function.
3. How to select a suitable PCB X-ray machine?
Excellent inspection of PCB using an X-ray machine results from careful consideration of the requirements of the quality expected.
Here are logical considerations to make when selecting a suitable PCB X-ray machine.
The Detection accuracy of the X-ray machine relies on the designed input voltage. This voltage can be as low as 90kV to detect the material thickness of 5 microns and as high as 130kV for a material thickness of 3 millimeters and above.
The specific industry requirement for the inspected device is also vital. For PCBs that are multilayer in nature, the provision will involve checking tightly arranged components. This industry requirement is different for other industries like the automotive industry.
The X-ray receiving device is another equally important factor in selecting the right PCB x-ray machine. The choice between a panel detector or an image intensifier is decided based on your budget and the result’s required brightness. The panel detector has a brighter output, and it’s more expensive than an image intensifier.
Choosing between manual and automatic operation is another thing to deliberate upon in your X-ray PCB machine choice. Though you get more done with more automation, the cost of purchasing an automatically operated machine will be higher than its manually operated version.
The structure of the x-ray PCB machine determines the ease of inspection at an angle. The tilt angle and rotation of the table is key to accessing tight angle quickly.
Manufacturer software and technical support are also crucial as you might need training and other after-sales support from the manufacturer.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, PCB x-ray inspection is essential in security apparatus at both civilian and military levels.
In the security field, Uni X-ray Technology is committed to becoming the global market leader in enhancing customer value with continuous innovation and technology and striving to create more advanced security products, solutions, and services.
Hence, with Uni X-ray, you will save yourself from unnecessary product failure, waste of money, and guarantee your clients the high-quality value you represent.
