How to Store, Protect, and Handle PCBs?

How to Store, Protect, and Handle PCBs?

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) drive most electronics and electromechanical devices. The functionality of these devices largely depends on the proper wiring and connectivity facilitated by these boards. With the increasing demand for complex and miniature PCBs as well as the conventional ones, it is important to protect and store them with due care for their long operational life. Also, adequate storage and protection of PCBs ensures electronic device reliability and longevity. Are you interested to know more about PCB storage and handling, and strategies for functional components of e PCBs? This post highlights various aspect of PCBs storage and protection. Stay tuned.

Quick Look at the Vulnerabilities of PCBs

Before getting into PCB storage and its protection, it is important to understand possible vulnerabilities that PCBs may undergo. Here are some of them.

• Environmental Factors: Printed circuit boards can be susceptible to extreme environmental conditions such as humidity, high or low temperatures, and exposure to corrosive elements. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can lead to degradation of materials, corrosion, and more. This ultimately compromises the performance of the board and the device.
• Electrostatic Discharge (ESD): This is a significant threat to circuit boards, especially during PCB storage and handling. The discharge of static electricity can damage the sensitive components on the board. This results in malfunctions or complete failure.
• Physical Damage: PCBs can be physically damaged due to mishandling during transportation or storage. This includes broken components, cracked traces, and delamination. All of these can undermine the structural integrity of PCB.

Reasons Why PCB Storage and Handling is Essential?

PCBs facilitate seamless communication between electronic components and complete the circuit which helps the device function normally. Thus, their storage and handling hold immense significance for these reasons.

• Prevention of Corrosion: Effective PCB storage and handling are crucial aspects of corrosion prevention and safeguarding critical electronic components' structural integrity. Several factors such as humidity and exposure to corrosive elements can initiate corrosion. This can pose a significant risk to the metallic elements of the circuit boards. By storing PCBs in controlled environments with regulated humidity and temperature levels, OEMs can minimize the conditions conducive to corrosion.
• Mitigating ESD Risks: Electrostatic discharge can be dangerous, especially during PCB manufacturing and assembly. Antistatic measures in PCB storage and handling, such as using conductive packaging materials and establishing ESD-safe zones, are important to prevent the buildup and discharge of static electricity.
• Ensuring Physical Integrity: PCBs may get damaged through various mechanisms during their lifecycle. Mishandling of circuit boards occurs during storage, transportation, assembly processes, and more, which can lead to structural compromises. Implementing adequate storage solutions such as secure packaging, appropriate containers, and more can reduce the risk of cracked boards, broken components, and other physical damages.

Optimal Methods for PCB Storage and Handling

Here are several proven approaches for the protection of operational elements on a PCB surface.

• Controller Environments: Preserving the integrity of circuit boards is essential for the desired performance. This can be done by establishing controlled storage environments with consistent temperature and humidity. These climate-controlled environments shield the boards from extreme conditions that could fasten aging and deterioration.
• Antistatic Packaging: This is another effective PCB storage option that helps prevent ESD damage. Conductive trays and bags dissipate static charges, ensuring the PCBs remain safe and secure during storage and transit.
• Secure Handling and Transportation: Adequate handling and transportation practices reduce the risk of physical damage. Cushioned packaging, avoiding rough handling, and securing the boards help ensure their safety in transit.
• Vacuum Sealing: This is a highly effective practice in ensuring the reliability and longevity of these essential electronic entities. Vacuum sealing involves removing air and moisture from the storage environment, helping create a controlled and inert atmosphere. Additionally, this reduces the risk of environmental damage to PCBs. The vacuum-sealed environment also helps prevent the onset of oxidation and ensures that PCBs remain free from contaminants during storage and transportation.
• Elevated Storage Racks: These racks represent a strategic PCB storage and handling approach. By storing PCBs at an elevated level, these racks protect against potential damage caused by accidental impacts or mishandling, reducing the risk of physical harm to the components. Additionally, high-level storage helps streamline the retrieval process and minimize the chances of misplacement.
• Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Periodic visual and PCB maintenance help detect early signs of damage, corrosion, or other issues. This effective approach prevents potential failures and allows for timely intervention.

Manufacturers and researchers are exploring cutting-edge technologies to enhance the resilience and longevity of PCBs. Smart storage systems, advanced packaging materials, robotics and automation in storage systems are some examples. By partnering with an experienced PCB manufacturing and assembly service provider, businesses know that their products would be protected from failure, saving valuable time and money in the long run. If you still have doubts, consult a reliable and trustworthy player like Twisted Traces. You can contact their team via phone or email for any further information you require.