Automation issues of SMD automated rework cell

The 1990s has become the decade of electronics manufacturing. Never before has electronics been a major element of nearly every product sector. Surface mount components have become the choice of industry to solve problems met at the circuit boards. New components using increased lead count of the surface mount technology (SMT) components, and also the increasing compactness of the SMT assemblies has demanded the creation of newer rework tools as an essential part of electronics manufacturing. It therefore becomes essential to have a well-controlled process to assure that rework is not only possible but that is consistent and flawless. Automation is the common answer to achieve both efficiency and quality. This paper describes a system for the automated rework of fine pitch components that is under development as part of the Electronics Manufacturing Programme at Rensselaer