SMT Stencil Types Available From MCL

We offer the following stencil products:

Framed SMT Stencils

Framed SMT stencils, also known as glue-in stencils, feature a permanent stencil frame. A mesh border keeps the stencil foil stretched taut for optimum accuracy. These stencils have benefits such as:

• Double-bonding for high-wear applications: Sturdy engineering resists intense use.
• Superior print performance: Smooth and taut aperture design creates accurate prints.
• Non-fading fiducial (marking) results: Screen-printing process makes long-lasting fiducial layouts.
• Ability to withstand numerous uses: Permanent mounting offers high levels of integrity.
• Availability for immediate use with an SMT printer: Preassembled product works in a screen printer right away.

Because of its durable engineering, a framed SMT stencil suits high-volume printing applications. We recommend this product for production runs that require long-term use. Consider choosing a framed stencil when you plan to assemble a large number of PCBs over an extended period.

Unframed SMT Stencils

Unframed SMT stencils consist of stainless steel foil without a permanent frame. They fit into reusable frames and can detach from them at any time. The benefits of using frameless stencils include:

• Cost-effective price: Frameless stencils results in a significant price reduction from a framed design.
• Reduced storage space: Compact size saves on space needed for storage.
• Lower environmental impact: Use of fewer materials suits eco-friendly production methods.
• Excellent print performance: High-quality engineering promotes top performance throughout stencil’s lifespan.
• Compatible with screen printing and hand-printing: Versatile format allows for printing with a machine or squeegee.

Since frameless stencils last for a fair amount of time, they fit short-term applications. We recommend them for short production runs or prototype circuit boards. Choose an unframed stencil for lower volumes of PCBs produced in a short period.

Prototype Stencils

A prototype stencil features the design you specify using a CAD or Gerber file. The user places it over their PCB and uses it to print the design by hand. Prototype stencils offer these benefits:

• Precise hand-printing: Alternative to hand soldering reduces the potential for errors.
• Reduced prototype assembly time: Quick alignment and printing increase efficiency.
• Eliminated need to use a machine: Hand-printing application requires no machine setup.
• Ultimate cost-effectiveness: Efficient design results in affordable price.
• Ease of use: Alignment tools allow for an easy-to-understand stencil printing process.

Prototype PCB stencils live up to their names — they suit prototype printing SMT applications. We recommend using them to test out your PCB design due to their affordability and ease of use. Add a prototype stencil to your order if you want to print a fast test product before creating a permanent design.

Prototype SMT Stencil Kit

Our prototype stencil kit comes with everything you need to print by hand. It includes:

• Your custom prototype stencil
• A squeegee blade that ensures precise application
• Solder paste
• Pick-and-place tool for careful handling
• Temperature marker for accurate heating
• A pair of gloves and alcohol wipes to prevent contamination

We suggest buying our prototype stencil kit if you plan to print a board by hand for the first time. It uses simple tools that create precise results.