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No chemicals required! Why is CNC filing the best choice for PCB production?
In modern electronics manufacturing, the way printed circuit boards (PCBs) are made continues to evolve. Among them, CNC filing technology has gradually become the best choice for PCB production due to its advantage of not requiring chemicals. CNC filing offers a safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly solution than traditional chemical etching methods.
PCB filing, or isolation filing, is the process of removing copper layers from PCB material to recreate contacts, signal paths and structures. This process is based on digital layout files of designed electronic circuits and does not rely solely on chemical reactions.
Advantage of no need for chemicals
The primary advantage of PCB filing is that no chemicals are required, which not only reduces the risk of the operation but also simplifies the PCB fabrication process. For prototype designers, traditional wet production often requires additional handling and disposal of chemicals, which adds cost and time.
Using a CNC filing machine, the production process can be completed in a general office or laboratory environment. We can quickly create high-quality circuit boards without exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Rapid prototyping
CNC filing technology has unparalleled advantages in prototyping. Through a CNC machine, not only filing but also drilling can be completed, which greatly shortens the production cycle. Compared with traditional outsourced solutions, companies that implement CNC filing can quickly respond to market demand and launch new products in a timely manner.
Easy-to-operate hardware facilities
PCB filing systems typically only require a standard AC power outlet and a commercial vacuum cleaner, making them easier to operate in a variety of environments. Additionally, filing machines are generally less expensive than high-end chemical etching systems, which is especially important for small businesses and makers.
Professional software support
Professional software for PCB filing is mostly provided by CNC machine manufacturers and is mainly divided into two categories: raster and vector. The tool path calculation accuracy of the raster method is relatively low because it relies on the received raster information.
During the CNC filing process, accurate tool control and appropriate rotational speed will directly affect the quality of the circuit board, which is one of the key factors affecting the production results.
Precise mechanical system
The mechanical system of the PCB filing machine is based on CNC technology, using precision guide wires and servo drives. In motion control, the control method of the three axes of XYZ is very important. Especially in the control of the Z-axis, modern CNC systems provide a variety of operation options, which can accurately adjust the pressing speed of the tool, thereby improving the uniformity of the plate.
Solutions to challenges
A major challenge is dealing with variations in PCB flatness. Traditional etching techniques rely on optical masks to maintain accuracy over small material deformations. CNC filing requires height mapping scanning to maintain good processing accuracy and reduce errors caused by uneven materials.
Practical tool selection
In CNC filing, conventional tools are usually used to process PCBs. These tools include end files, tapered knives and flat tools. Their low cost and miniaturized design make PCB processing more flexible. Choosing tools based on actual usage requirements can effectively improve the efficiency of circuit board production.
Generally speaking, the chemical-free production method brought about by CNC filing provides new thinking and methods for the design and production of electronic circuit boards. Does this mean we can say goodbye to those dangerous chemicals in future PCB production?
