Want PCB Conveyors for efficient manufacturing? Here are the types of PCB conveyors used in SMT manufacturing.
A PCB conveyor moves printed circuit boards (PCBs) automatically between the next stage of SMT production lines. This equipment board helps transfer boards through assembly, inspection, and testing.
While transportation of PCBs is their primary role, PCB conveyors do more than just that. At HJE Tech India Private Limited, we offer a range of PCB conveyors for buffering, inspection, testing, and manual assembly, ensuring a smooth workflow, reducing handling errors, minimising downtime, and increasing overall product efficiency and quality.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of PCB conveyors used in SMT and the key reasons they are indispensable.
A Complete Guide to the Types of PCB Conveyors in SMT Manufacturing
Here are the kinds of PCB conveyors used in the SMT manufacturing lines:
1. Inspection Conveyors (Visual & AOI-Compatible)
PCB inspection conveyors are designed to inspect PCBs at the end of the conformal coating line. Inspection conveyors typically offer adjustable speed, buffers, and open working space for operators.
Key advantages:
- Great for manual inspection
- Supports AOI integration
- Allows quick rework stations if needed
Many manufacturers prefer these because they prevent bottlenecks right after pick-and-place or reflow stages.
2. SMT Buffer Conveyors
These conveyors hold boards when a downstream machine slows down or stops. They’re lifesavers during production spikes or downtime.
3. Shuttle Conveyors
The PCB shuttle conveyors are used to transport boards from one line to another, or vice versa, for SMT and DIP. Separate production lines save labour cost and space, optimize equipment capabilities, and improve production efficiency.
When one line needs to feed multiple SMT lines, or vice versa, a traverser conveyor acts as a traffic controller.
Benefits:
- Flexible line balancing
- Ideal for mass production setups
- Smart routing abilities
4. Cooling Conveyors
Cooling conveyors are equipped after reflow ovens, which are configured with alarms and cooling devices. It can also be used for PCBA buffering, inspection, testing, and manual insertion of electronic components, and can communicate with other equipment.
A well-designed cooling conveyor prevents solder joint disturbance and enhances long-term reliability.
5. Telescopic/Adjustable Conveyors
It applies to the full-automatic connection between adjacent SMT, DIP, or assembly-line equipment, and has the functions of transmission and stop. When the production line needs passage, just start the access button, which is convenient and fast.
Best for:
- Flexible production cells
- R&D environment
- Lines are undergoing frequent reconfiguration
They’re also excellent for connecting equipment temporarily or during maintenance.
Why HJE Tech India Private Limited for PCB Conveyors
Choosing the right conveyor isn’t just about buying equipment. It’s about creating an innovative, efficient, scalable SMT production ecosystem.
What makes HJE Tech India Private Limited the best choice?
- End-to-End SMT Line Solutions: We offer everything from PCB loaders/unloaders to AOI conveyors, cooling units, and buffer systems.
- High-Performance, Durable Equipment: Built for continuous industrial operation.
- Custom Line Integration: Our conveyors are designed to match your exact plant layout and production flow.
- Technical Expertise: Powered by years of SMT engineering and real-world manufacturing experience.
- On-Site Support & Maintenance: We provide all-around support because reliability doesn’t end at installation.
- Consultative Approach: We help you select the right conveyor type based on production volume, PCB size, and floor layout.
At HJE Tech India Private Limited, we know SMT inside out, and we build solutions that last.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the types of PCB conveyors used in SMT manufacturing helps you optimise your workflow, ensure quality, boost efficiency, and cut costs by matching the right system to your specific needs, such as inline inspection, delicate handling, error minimisation, and a smooth, continuous flow and higher throughput.
Whether you need a simple loader or a complete PCB conveyor ecosystem with buffers, cooling zones, and inspection units? HJE Tech India Private Limited is here to help. We are a one-stop solution and service provider for the electronics manufacturing business.
Looking to upgrade your SMT lines? Contact HJE Tech India Private Limited to transform your production line.
FAQs
Do all SMT lines need buffer conveyors?
Not always, but they’re highly recommended. Buffers prevent bottlenecks, especially near reflow ovens or AOI stations.
How long do SMT conveyors typically last?
With proper maintenance, high-quality conveyors can last 8-12 years, depending on usage intensity and environment.
Are conveyor speeds adjustable?
Yes, most SMT conveyors feature variable speed control to match machine cycle rates.