Circuit board cutting machine

Introduction to the Circuit Board Cutting Machine

Circuit Board Cutting Machine is specialized equipment designed to cut and separate individual PCB boards from a panel after the machining, assembly, or soldering processes have been completed. Instead of relying on manual cutting operations, the machine uses an automatically controlled routing spindle that follows a pre-programmed cutting path, combined with a PCB positioning and clamping system to ensure stable and precise cutting.

In electronic manufacturing lines, the cutting and separation process requires a combination of precision, speed, and repeatability. The cutting path must accurately follow the designed profile while minimizing mechanical stress and potential impact on the PCB and assembled components. Therefore, automating this process enables manufacturers to achieve better control over product quality while reducing dependence on manual operator handling. The Circuit Board Cutting Machine designed and manufactured by CNC VINA is developed according to the specific requirements of each PCB model. The machine can be configured for Inline production lines and integrated with material loading units, transfer mechanisms, dedicated fixtures, cutting tools, dust extraction systems, and automatic control systems.

How does the Circuit Board Cutting Machine work?

During the PCB manufacturing process, multiple individual boards are often arranged in a panel and connected to each other. Once the required production processes have been completed, the individual boards need to be separated from the panel along predefined cutting paths.

The CNC VINA Circuit Board Cutting Machine performs this process using a cutting tool mounted on a spindle. The PCB is loaded into the machine, transferred to the fixture, and securely held in position before the cutting operation begins. The cutting tool then rotates at the preset speed and moves along the programmed cutting path to separate the individual PCB sections. For each product model, parameters such as spindle speed and tool path are preset in the control system. As a result, when switching to a specific product model, the machine can execute the corresponding program repeatedly with a higher level of consistency and stability compared with manual cutting operations.

Main components of the CNC VINA Circuit Board Cutting Machine

HMI and PLC Control System

The control system allows operators to select the product model, configure cutting parameters, and monitor the machine's operating status. Cutting programs can be configured separately for each PCB model, including the tool path and spindle speed. Saving and managing programs by product model minimizes the need for repeated manual setup during production and makes it more convenient to switch between different PCB models.

Input unit

The Input Unit is responsible for receiving PCBs before they are transferred to the machining area. Depending on the machine configuration, PCBs can be supplied in stacked form or through a conveyor system. Automating the input process reduces the need for operators to manually load individual PCBs and supports continuous operation of the cutting process within the production line.

Transfer unit

The Transfer Unit is responsible for picking up and moving PCBs from the Input area to the cutting JIG. The mechanism works in combination with a vacuum system to securely hold the PCB during transfer and accurately position it before the machining process begins.

PCB positioning JIG

The JIG directly supports and positions the PCB during the cutting process. A properly designed JIG keeps the board securely in place and minimizes movement when the cutting tool engages with the material.

The JIG is also designed according to the requirements of each product model. When changing to a different PCB type, the JIG can be replaced or adjusted to match the dimensions and cutting path of the new product.

Cutting tool and Spindle unit

The cutting unit uses a milling cutter combined with a spindle to perform the PCB separation process. The spindle provides rotational motion to the cutting tool, while the motion control system guides the tool along the programmed cutting path.

The CNC VINA Circuit Board Cutting Machine is designed with two spindle heads, positioned underneath the product area to perform the cutting process according to the machine configuration. The selection of cutting tools and cutting parameters should be determined based on the PCB material, board thickness, and actual cutting profile.

Dust Extraction System

The PCB routing process generates dust and material particles around the cutting area. The machine is equipped with a dust extraction unit to collect particles generated during machining. Effective dust control helps minimize dust accumulation inside the machine, maintain a cleaner machining environment, and improve working conditions for operators.

Automatic PCB cutting process

The CNC VINA Circuit Board Cutting Machine performs the cutting cycle automatically through three main stages.

First, the PCB is received by the Input Unit and picked up by the Transfer Unit before being placed into the JIG. The PCB is then accurately positioned and securely held in place by the vacuum mechanism before the cutting process begins.

Next, the spindles rotate while the cutting tools move along the programmed cutting paths. Depending on the panel design, the machine performs the required cutting paths to separate the individual PCBs from the panel. During this process, the dust extraction system operates simultaneously to collect the dust and particles generated during cutting.

After the cutting paths are completed, the PCB is picked up by the vacuum mechanism and transferred from the machining area to the Output system for the next production process. The entire loading, cutting, and unloading sequence is automated, minimizing direct operator intervention and supporting a stable, efficient production workflow.

Key Features of the CNC VINA Circuit Board Cutting Machine

Fully Automated PCB Cutting and Separation

The machine can continuously perform PCB loading, positioning, cutting, and unloading. Operators primarily configure the cutting program, monitor machine operation, and respond to alarms when necessary.

This reduces repetitive manual operations and is particularly suitable for production lines with high PCB volumes and requirements for stable production cycles.

High-Precision Programmed Cutting

The cutting path is pre-programmed according to each PCB model, allowing the cutting unit to follow the required trajectory accurately. Based on the current design specifications, the machine can achieve a cutting accuracy of approximately ±0.1 mm. Actual cutting accuracy may vary depending on the PCB characteristics, JIG, cutting tool, and operating conditions.

Short Cycle Time

According to the reference configuration, the cutting cycle time is approximately 22 seconds per panel containing 6 products. This enables the machine to meet the requirements of continuous production. However, the actual cycle time may vary depending on PCB dimensions, the number of cutting paths, and the machining program.

Flexible PCB Model Changeover

One of the notable features of the machine is its ability to process multiple PCB models by changing the corresponding JIG and cutting program. When switching to a different product, manufacturers can use a suitable fixture instead of investing in an entirely new system. This is particularly beneficial for factories handling multiple PCB models and requiring flexibility in production planning.

Automatic PCB Loading and Unloading System

Two conveyor systems at the Input and Output areas automatically transfer PCBs into and out of the machine. The Transfer Unit, combined with a vacuum mechanism, moves PCBs to the cutting position and retrieves the products after the cutting process is completed. This enables the machine to connect with other processes in the production line while reducing intermediate handling time.

Dust Extraction During Machining

An integrated dust extraction system is designed to control dust generated during the PCB routing process. This is an essential feature for milling-type cutting machines, helping maintain a cleaner environment inside the machine while minimizing dust dispersion into the surrounding work area.

Benefits of Using an Automatic Circuit Board Cutting Machine

Integrating an automatic Circuit Board Cutting Machine into the production line significantly reduces manual operations during the PCB separation process. When PCBs are automatically loaded, positioned, and cut according to programmed parameters, the production process achieves higher repeatability and becomes less dependent on individual operator skills. The cutting accuracy and controlled tool path also help minimize deviations that may occur during manual cutting. For products requiring precise cutting positions, the combination of a dedicated JIG and programmed machining process provides better control over the cutting operation.

In addition, the automatic PCB loading and unloading systems reduce handling time between cycles, thereby improving overall production line productivity. The machine also shifts operators' responsibilities from direct cutting operations to equipment operation, monitoring, and quality inspection. Furthermore, the integrated dust extraction system collects dust generated during the routing process directly at the machining area, helping improve working conditions and reducing dust accumulation inside the machine.

Applications of the Circuit Board Cutting Machine

The CNC VINA Circuit Board Cutting Machine is used in electronic equipment manufacturing and assembly lines to separate individual PCBs from panels after machining and component assembly processes. This is an important process for products manufactured in panel form, where multiple circuit boards are connected together to facilitate solder paste printing, component placement, soldering, and inspection.

After these processes are completed, the individual PCBs need to be separated along their predefined cutting profiles without affecting the components, copper traces, or structural integrity of the boards.

Overview of card cutting machine

Circuit board cutting machines are important electronic specialized machines in mass production of circuit analysis in PCB and SMT. Used a lot in Japanese and Korean factories such as Canon, Samsung, LG, Panasonic,...

The machine operates on the principle of using a small-sized cutting tool with a phase head that can be converted in 2 directions to create cutting lines on the board.

Automatic electronic board cutting machine for PCB and SMT circuit boards is designed and manufactured by CNC VINA products and services in the chain process (Inline). CNC VINA specializes in designing and manufacturing circuit cutting machines according to customer requirements for each model circuit board. Accurate and fast cutting machines help improve productivity and protect the health of employees in the workshop.

What is a circuit board cutter?

A circuit board cutter is an automatic device used to cut internal circuit boards (PCBs) from the original circuit board. The machine works by using a small cutting head that moves horizontally and vertically to create cuts on the surface of the circuit board.

Advantages of automatic circuit breaker:

·       Fast cutting speed, high productivity

·       Precise cutting height

·       Cut many sizes and different circuit types

·       Minimize errors for cutting tools

·       Save labor and production costs

·       Automate production processes, minimizing safety risks for operators

Circuit cutting machines are often used in manufacturers and assemblers of electronic and telecommunications products to automate the cutting of circuits from the original circuit board.

Configuration of automatic electronic panel cutting machine

·       Control panel: Product model operator selected, information operating number setting, error occurred during production.

·       Input assembly (input): The board is supplied to the machine as a stack

·       Transfer cluster (moving): has the operation of picking up the product from the board input position to the jig cutting position

·       JIG assembly: end and positioning board

·       Cutter assembly: phase cutter, using standard spindle

There are also small machine assemblies such as suction arm assembly, vacuum cleaner assembly...

Automatic circuit board cutting machine specializes in designing and creating VINA CNC modes

Operating principle of each PCB cutting technology

Laser cutting process:

PCB ultraviolet laser cutting machine refers to the use of 355nm ultraviolet rays, through beam expanders, galvanometers, ball catchers and other optical devices to focus to form a small point, through Through the drift control of the XY electric motor, the point moves within the scanning range of the glass sharpness. By controlling the movement of the light spot, scanning and re-scanning in a certain area, peeling off each layer of material on the surface of the material, to achieve the goal of cutting the material.

V-cutting process

The notching process involves two blades with arbitrary angles, angles such as 20°, 30°, 45° and 60°. These types of gears work like wheels with many gears, and these types of gears are the cones used to score points. One set of knives is placed on the top and the other on the bottom, rotate the point, with a certain distance to select the board passing through the PCB. This gap determines the remaining thickness between the two V-cuts. The remaining thickness is supported by subboards or manufacturing products that hold the PCB parts together. Once the panel PCB assembly is completed, the panels will be separated into individual panel mount PCBs.

Milling

PCB milling is a method of removing copper from a circuit board to create traces and signal paths based on the design layout. PCB milling can be performed in a laboratory environment and is free of toxic substances as it is truly a non-chemical process.

The precision and sharpness of the milling bit you use to produce directly affects the quality of the PCB. It has little or no effect on the quality and accuracy of the circuit board with respect to the rotation speed of the milling bit.

There are two types of software: Raster and Vector. Software that uses raster calculations has lower processing resolution than vector-based types because it depends on raster information.

Outstanding features of the automatic circuit breaker

The cutter installs and operates in an automatic manner. Time of a cutting process: 22 seconds/circuit board including 6 products (reference parameters). In particular, the machine can cut many different circuit board models by replacing cutting fixtures easily, flexibly and saving costs in production.

The circuit board cutting machine in automatic operating mode includes 3 stages:

·       The machine automatically activates the circuit board from the input conveyor into the map to put into cutting position

·       The cutting head rotates and moves in two ways to create cutting motion

·       After cutting, the circuit board will be automatically sent to the output conveyor.

For each type of circuit board to be cut, cutting parameters such as spindle speed and running path are pre-set by PLC control on the HMI screen. The cutting machine has two spindle heads with cutting tools placed below and cutting the product upside down above. The circuit board is fed into position and secured with a suction arm assembly. Then this compressed air suction arm assembly floats out, everything is automatic. The process of supplying circuit boards and removing products after cutting can operate automatically with 2 conveyor systems at the input and output.

The circuit cutting process of the automatic circuit breaker only takes a few seconds to separate 2 (or 4) circuit boards from each other. Because the productivity of the machine in the automatic line is very high. The machine helps save human resources and improve productivity for fast climbing of electronics factories. Furthermore, the machine uses a dust collector to help protect workers' health, avoiding inhaling toxic dust generated during the cutting process from circuit boards.

Circuit board before and after cutting

How to operate the panel cutting machine

The circuit breaker operating process usually includes the following main steps:

·       Step 1: Check the computer system

o   Check the power source and air compression system

o   Check the cutter head/drill bit

o   Check the vacuum system

o   Clean the work area

·       Step 2: Set parameters

o   Enter cutting parameters: cutting speed, vacuum force...

o   Enter the drawing model or cutting path for each type of circuit board to be cut

o   Set automatic/semi-automatic mode

·       Step 3: Place the circuit board on the machine

o   Use the system conveyor to put the card into position

o   Use a vacuum system to hold the circuit board tightly

·       Step 4: Start the mower

o   Press the Start button to begin the cutting process

o   Monitor the cutting process, ensure stable operation number

·       Step 5: Get the cut version

o   Turn off the vacuum system, take out the cut circuit board

o   Use the download system to issue a card's next process

o   Clean the work area and prepare for the next batch of cuts

To ensure the cutting process is accurate and safe, the operator needs to handle the process correctly and pay attention to the following issues:

·       Use the machine only after training and experience

·       Regularly check machine condition, replace difficult condition from time to time

·       Comply with strict regulations on labor safety when operating the machine

·       Do not relax near the cutting part, avoid direct contact when the machine is operating

·       Turn off the power when not using the machine or during maintenance

How to check the operation of circuit breaker

·       Check the energy tester: Use the Standard circuit board, Put it in the cut-off position, then move the suction head of the switch assembly down, then turn on the suction head, see the value on the meter to see if it has reached or not, if it is on value The value set on the HMI has not been reported OK, Conclusion is that the signal wire is damaged, or the energy checker output is damaged or the PLC input is damaged.

·       Sound generator: If applying enough power, and suctioning the standard circuit board but the value is still less than the allowable value, Check the entire input line and air line to the suction head, If the air line is okay , concluded the vacuum generator was defective.

·       Check Limit Switch (action rules) Cylinder: Move the cylinder to the position to be tested, use a screwdriver to move the LS along the cylinder. If the LS does not turn on, conclude that the LS is faulty. (The maxim can be used to check the operation of LS).

·       Check the spindle: Press the mode button to switch back to the mode table. Press start to run if the spindle does not rotate but reports an error, check whether the head spindle is stuck or not, whether the input air pressure is higher than 0.4 Mpa or not. Both conditions are true but the main shaft still reports an error and cannot run, then the main shaft is broken.

·       Always check the power and compressed air source of the machine before operating. Clean the machine thoroughly after each job. Always contribute operating instructions and schedules for inspection and maintenance of the machine's mechanical and electrical systems.

Image of circuit breaker version 2020 being assembled by CNC-VINA staff to complete the facilities

Some notes when using circuit breakers

To ensure the safety and longevity of circuit board cutting machines, users need to pay attention to the following issues:

·       Only operate the machine after reading the instructions and becoming familiar with the basic operations. Follow strict operating procedures to ensure safety.

·       Regularly maintain and clean the machine periodically. Replace worn parts such as cutters, slide rails... in a timely manner.

·       Machine parts cannot be moved or disassembled without a technician's instructions.

·       Do not let foreign objects fall inside the machine, it may cause damage to the main parts.

·       Periodically check applications, compressed air, and electrical cables to detect dangerous errors and avoid interruption of machine operations.

·       Maintain a clean, well-ventilated working environment. A good ventilation system will prolong the life of the machine.

Key features and notes when choosing a PCB cutting machine

Accuracy

Ensures highest accuracy ±0.1mm.

Cut speed

Productivity increases when operating automatically, reaching up to 40% compared to human labor.

Compatibility with different types of PCB materials

PCB cutting machines can cut many different types of materials depending on the supplier's requirements.

Machine size and performance

PCB cutters come in many sizes (as compact as a desktop PCB cutter or as large as an industrial PCB cutter) and different jobs, depending on the production method or circuit board size that suits your needs. Friend .

Software integration and automation capabilities

With today's modern technology, integrating and applying additional technologies or automation lines is important and easy. We can use Robot tools to cut and separate PCB circuit boards or specialized design software.

Requires maintenance and PCB support

In fact, the work of using PCB machines requires engineers and workers who are skilled and have the clearest understanding of the definition. When there is an incident requiring maintenance and protection of equipment, there will always be teams established. At the enterprise, it will be processed immediately. Each PCB system will also have different specific requirements, so it requires the skill of engineers.

Future trends of PCB cutting machines

Advances in cutting technology

PCBs were introduced as recently as a century ago as a replacement for bulky wires. Today, they are at the core of the electronics industry, supporting the latest designs such as IoT, AI and 5G.

·       Multilayer PCB: The advent of integrated circuits (ICs) has revolutionized development

·       PCBs in the 1960s. With the addition of ICs, the layers of conductors increased when stacking PCBs. This results in the use of multiple layers of PCB.

·       Surface Mount Technology (SMT): Surface mount components became popular in the 1980s. SMT allows for automation of the assembly process and significantly improves circuit performance by optimizing electrical consumption capacity.

·       Circuit boards in 3D: Researchers have begun testing computers in 3D PCBs to create circuit boards in 3D.

·       Desktop PCB Printers: Desktop PCB printers like the V-One have been in development for PCB prototyping and assembly for some time and have received immediate feedback on new designs.

Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning

The trend in the electronics industry is towards making devices smarter. Embedding AI in robotics, voice assistance and autonomous vehicles helps achieve this in an excellent way using advanced microcontrollers and other electronics. All electronic devices require circuit boards to function, and devices that use AI are no exception. However, bringing AI into devices is a futuristic concept, the process opens up new formulations in PCB design and products.

Impact of Industry 4.0 on PCB cutting process

Affected by factors such as weak demand for traditional consumer electronics such as smartphones and PCs, overall demand for PCBs began to decline in 2022. Prismark reported in the first quarter In 2023, the value of the global PCB industry's valuable products, measured in USD, is expected to decline 9.3% year-on-year in 2023, down 5.2 percentage points from the forecast from the first quarter of 2023. 4 ago.

According to Prismark analysis, global PCB product value is expected to experience significant fluctuations, mainly due to increased pressure from slowing global macroeconomic growth in 2023. Market demand Weakness continues and the effects of inventory adjustments exist across the entire electronics display industry supply chain. In addition to substrate packaging, the expected product value of other PCB industrial products is expected to decrease to varying degrees, from 6% to 9% in 2023.

Please contact us to visit Made in Vietnam automatic machines at the factory:
VIETNAM CNC & TECHNOLOGY APPLICATION JOINT STOCK COMPANY
Factory: Song Cung Industrial Site, Dong Thap Commune, Dan Phuong District, City. Hanoi Vietnam

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