Label materials for PCB manufacturing
Why use labels for printed circuit boards (PCBs)?
The manufacturing process for printed circuit boards is complex and costly. Using labels with accurate coding throughout the entire process can save you significant time, both during production and afterwards, for tasks such as repairs, maintenance, or warranty services. When every component has its own label, you can avoid identification issues entirely, ensuring a seamless workflow.
Benefits of labels for printed circuit boards
Labels for PCBs can be applied to both the top and bottom sides of the board before production begins. Thanks to their strong adhesive properties and exceptional resistance to high temperatures and chemicals, these labels remain readable and scannable during and after the process. They withstand exposure to wave soldering, reflow soldering, and flux baths without detaching or degrading. Designed for PCB production, these labels are suitable for both Surface-Mounted Devices (SMD) and Through-Hole assembly methods.
You can apply the PCB labels manually or through auto-apply systems integrated with feeders for pick-and-place machines. Our label materials are compatible with leading feeder brands, including Hover Davis, Brady, AMS, Kutronic, Elite Feeder Solutions, Identco, PB Tec Solutions, CAB, and Europlacer. These feeders work seamlessly with popular pick-and-place machines like Assembleon, Juki, ASM Siplace, Fuji, Heeb, Fritsch, Samsung, Yamaha, Mydata, Siemens, Panasonic, and Universal.
Label materials for printed circuit boards
For labelling PCBs, electronic components, and equipment, we recommend using polyester or polyimide label materials. These materials are heat-resistant and highly resistant to solvents, chemicals, and friction. Polyester labels can withstand continuous temperatures ranging from -40°C to +150°C, with short-term resistance up to +250°C. For extreme temperatures, polyimide Kapton® labels are ideal, offering halogen-free properties and compliance with Reach and RoHS guidelines. These labels can endure continuous use at temperatures from -40°C to +300°C and resist short-term heat exposure up to +500°C for 90 seconds, making them suitable for every stage of PCB production.
Printing PCB Labels
Both polyester and polyimide labels can be printed in-house using a thermal transfer printer. It is essential to use a heat- and chemical-resistant printer ribbon to ensure the printed information remains legible after the PCB manufacturing process.
Your labels can include a wide range of information, such as serial numbers, instructions, part numbers, track-and-trace codes, or dates. For designing your labels, Loftware NiceLabel software provides user-friendly options tailored to your needs.
Alternatively, you can outsource the production of your PCB labels to us. Our specialised team can create custom labels tailored to the identification requirements of your industry, ensuring compliance and efficiency. Whether you need assistance selecting the right label materials to reduce costs and improve workflow or require bespoke label designs, our advisors are here to help. Looking for expert advice? Contact us today for tailored solutions to optimise your PCB labelling processes.