In the previous post, we had discussed about PCB eyelets used in PTH Technology. We also elaborated on the points to keep in mind while choosing an eyelet for the repair process. In this post, we will present the various steps to repair an eyelet.
Tools and Materials Required for the Repair Process
The following are the items you will require to complete the repair procedure:
- Eyelets
- Eyelet Press
- General Purpose Contaminant Cleaner
- Non-abrasive Wipes
- Microscope
- Knife with #16 Blade
- Micro Drill System with Ball Mills
- Pin Gauges
- Caliper
- Solder and Flux
- Soldering Iron
PCB Eyelet Repair Procedure
Each of the steps given below need to be completed one after the other. This will ensure that the repair process is completed well without any errors.
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Clean the Damaged Area: Use the wipes and the general purpose cleaner to remove dust, or any other contaminant from the damaged area.
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Measure the Plated Hole: Use a pin gauge and caliper to measure the dimensions of the existing plated hole in the circuit board.
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Choose the Eyelet: Using the points mentioned in the previous post, choose the eyelet for the repair procedure.
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Drill the Existing Plating: The plating on the existing hole will have to be removed. Take the micro drill system and drill out the hole to remove the plating. Once this has been completed, clean the area with the cleaner and wipes.
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Solder the Land /Circuit: The land or circuit will have to be joined to the eyelet. One of the biggest obstacles to soldering is some kind of impurity, like dirt or dust. While the cleaner has been used, for the circuit, flux will have to be applied to remove the impurity. Then use tin solder and soldering iron to join the land to the hole.
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Insert the Eyelet: After completing the soldering process, clean the area. Then take the eyelet, and place it carefully into the hole. The flange of the eyelet should cover the extending circuit.
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Set the Eyelet: Prepare the eyelet press, then turn the circuit board upside down. Place the eyelet under the setting tool. Apply pressure onto the eyelet to form the round barrel shape of the eyelet. Ensure that the flange helps secure the circuit.
Tips and Warnings
- The procedure of removing the existing plated hole has to be performed carefully. Otherwise, it can isolate internal connections of the circuit board.
- Always inspect the eyelet flange for any kind of damage after the setting process has been completed.
By keeping these various points and steps in mind, you should have enough knowledge to perform the PCB eyelet repair process yourself. For more information about PCB eyelet, please visit https://acceleratedassemblies.com/ or contact the company at +1(630)616-6680
