Automatic BGA Rework Station

Automatic BGA Rework Station— also called SMT and SMD rework stations — play a critical role in printed circuit board repair and modification. As their names imply, Automatic BGA Rework Station are spaces where technicians can alter surface-mounted devices and circuit boards with ball grid array (BGA) packaging. This is useful for several refinishing and repairing applications, including removing defective components, replacing missing components, reversing components that were installed incorrectly, and more.

Many short-run or low-volume production operations also use Automatic BGA Rework Station. Depending on the task and the system, they may offer partial automation capabilities, with or without the use of a connected PC. All Automatic BGA Rework Station come fully self contained with their own internal air and vacuum unless otherwise specified.

What Is a Automatic BGA Rework Station? How it Works?

This Station is a workspace system technicians can use to alter printed circuit boards with ball grid array (BGA) packaging and surface-mounted devices. These Stations can also alter circuit boards with column grid array packaging, chip scale packages, quad flat packages, land grid arrays and other surface-mounted devices. Automatic BGA Rework Station are also called surface-mounted technology rework stations or surface-mounted device (SMD) rework stations.

Automatic BGA rework station have features that dictate the size of the circuit board that can be worked on and capabilities that determine the types and volume of jobs that can be done. Some have a split-vision assist camera, while others do not. This rework station that do not have the split-vision functionality are best for entry-level jobs, while Automatic BGA rework station with this function allow for more complex work. Some stations have automated functions, while others do not.

Automatic BGA rework station allows technicians to do several different things, including refinishing, rework and repair. These station empower technicians to remove defective parts, reinstall incorrectly placed parts, replace any missing parts and remove parts that are no longer working. Automatic BGA rework station can be placed on a flat surface, or technicians can use BGA rework stations that come mounted on a cabinet with wheels.

Application Use For an Automatic BGA Rework Station

It has several different applications in the world of PCB repair and alteration. Here are a few of the most common applications.

Upgrades: Upgrades are one of the most common reasons for Automatic BGA rework station. Technicians may need to swap out parts or add upgraded pieces to a PCB.

Faulty parts: PCBs can have various faulty parts that may require rework. For example, pads could get damaged during BGA removal, any number of parts could be heat-damaged or there could be too much solder joint voiding.

Faulty assembly: A range of mistakes can occur during the rework process. For example, the PCB may have incorrect BGA orientation or a poorly developed BGA rework thermal profile. If this is the case, the PCB will likely need to undergo further rework to address the faulty assembly.

Types of Automatic BGA Rework Station

1. Hot air BGA reworks stations:

Hot air BGA rework stations use hot air to heat up the PCB components during the project. Several different nozzles guide and circulate hot air to ensure even heat distribution. Technicians can move these nozzles to direct air, allowing work on small, delicate components to get accomplished quickly.

The use of air pumps means there will be some level of noise when using a hot air BGA rework station, though many models can run very quietly. Because hot air is an older technology, more technicians have training in using hot air BGA rework stations as opposed to IR BGA rework stations.

2. IR BGA rework stations:

Instead of hot air, IR BGA rework stations use infrared rays and a fixed ceramic heater to heat PCB components. This type of rework station is completely silent. It also involves fewer pieces, which can make maintenance easier.

However, depending on the quality of this machine, it may require more frequent maintenance and additional tools to accomplish the desired jobs. Since this is a newer technology, not as many technicians are trained to use IR BGA rework stations.

Both hot air BGA rework stations and IR BGA rework stations have pros and cons, but a big factor to consider is the skill of the technician operating the machine.

Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Automatic BGA Rework Station?

An ideal rework station comes with accurate temperature control feature. It should also be ESD- safe as well. Apart from that, it has to be ergonomically designed so that it doesn’t lead to fatigue while soldering.

There are several Automatic BGA rework station and tools provided by different manufacturers. To choose the best one that suits your requirements, we recommend to consider certain factors. We have mentioned them below for your reference.

Material

Automatic BGA rework station can be applied indoors and outdoors. The build quality must be sturdy enough to provide stability and durability for a few years. The materials have to be checked before buying. Look for the devices made of metal allows, preferably steel or heat-resistant materials. Also, keep in mind that all gadgets have elements made of sturdy plastic.

Display

During the rework jobs, you have to check the measurements and values. That is why all Automatic BGA rework station have a display to read the input and output values. You won’t be able to use the device effectively if the display shows inaccurate readings. Contemporary stations have whether an LED display or dual digital LED display or LCD or LED digital temperature.

Weight

It must be lightweight because most welding hobbyists prefer to carry these gadgets indoors and outdoors. Consider investing in a lightweight gadget that weighs from 3 to 11 pounds. Such weight is the most acceptable if you seek portability.

Temperature control

Most have the temperature control feature by default. You should be able to adjust the temperate quickly and easily.

Heating time

You need to check how much time is required for the Automatic BGA rework station to heat the station’s tip. The tip should heat up quickly. In such a way, you don’t have to waste time while waiting for the device to heat up. You may want to invest in the gadget with a quick heat recovery function.

Safety

You can’t underestimate the safety issues. It is an essential feature to look for in Automatic BGA rework station. Each gadget should have overheating protection. Check if the station has an ESD safe design.

Advantages of Automatic BGA rework Station

Automatic BGA rework station comes with soldering tip temperature control. It enables you to set a wide temperature range according to your project.

• They are available in several wattage levels
• They are compatible with different tip types
• Suitable for replacing capacitors
• Being versatile, they can be used for several applications
• Available in different sizes
• Even beginners can use it easily
• You don’t have to work much on connections
• Though previously soldering stations were expensive, now-a-days they come within reach
• Perfect for high volume production
• Good soldering station heats up in less than 20 seconds
• Adjustable and regulated tip temperature
• Due to regulation, you can even solder at lower temperatures
• Solder will not oxidize on the tip
• Several different types of tips are available
• Have thinner and more flexible cable which makes them more easy and pleasurable to work with

Safety Tips to Consider While Using Automatic BGA Rework Station

• As mentioned by almost all the manufacturers, you should never come in direct contact with soldering iron element.
• To hold wires, we recommend to use either tweezers or clamps
• When not in use, we recommend to turn off the soldering station. And make sure to unplug it as well.
• Make sure the cleaning sponge is always wet while using
• Never place your soldering iron on workbench. Place it on the stand.
• Make sure to wash your hands properly after soldering process
• Avoid using a soldering station if the plug is damaged.
• Maintenance Tips to Increase the Life of Soldering Station
• Make sure to read the manual provided by the manufacturer. Most of the maintenance tips are provided in it.
• For safety and best results, we recommend to use damp sponge. But never let it be drenched in water while using the soldering station.
• Use 600 grit sandpaper whenever the tip shows signs of wear and tear. Never use sandpaper when the iron is still plugged. Let the soldering iron to cool down properly before trying the sandpaper.
• In order to clean the dirty tip, you have to unplug the unit first. Now scuff the dirt using sandpaper. Keep on scuffing until the tip is suitable enough.
• Make sure to tin the tip once cleaning it completed. This will prevent oxidation which in turns increases the life span.

Conclusion:

The automatic BGA rework station are devices are convenient tools that will make repairing tasks or working on electronics quite easier. If you take all the precautions then it is sure that you can safely accomplish the project, and with great efficiency. Apart from them, these station are durably built, versatility, and come with user-friendliness.