Dispensing solder paste with a 3D printer

[@simonjosimonjo4871]

Hi, are you still working on this? What gauge needle do you use and which solder paste?

[@pira_mx]

Hello, yes the dispenser is still available. The smaller recommended needle size is 22ga (color blue) for high viscosity fluids like solder pastes.

[@samuelroberts7159]

Won't dispensing solder paste across the pads like that cause bridging?

[@williammanganaro9070]

Hi Samuel, that's what one would think but when the solder re-flows (reaches it melting point) at a specified temperature, the solder will gather onto each pad individually because of a solder mask thats placed onto the printed circuit board. The mask will prevent solder bridges from forming between the closely spaced pads. I do admit though that from time to time its not perfect and you have to clear a bridge or two between pads. I hope this helps to answer your question.

[@pira_mx]

William is right, the surface tension of the melted solder paste will make it stick to the pads and prevent bridges. Although obviously all pastes are different and some testing is required to find out the right amount for a particular brand/type of paste and pin pitch.

[@utopial2006]

Do you offer the 3D printer with dispenser?

[@pira_mx]

Hello, for CNC/3D printer integration the user has to do the final adaptation to their existing system since I only sell the dispenser.

[@DeqingSun]

Hi, Is the heating bed required? Is there any requirement for solder paste? or any paste will work?

[@pira_mx]

Hello, heating the bed is not necessary for dispensing. Solder pastes sold in syringe presentation work better than the ones sold in small jars, the reason is they have lower viscosity which makes it easier to control.

[@DeqingSun]

@@pira_mx Thank you, glad to know these.