This page will focus on the mechanical safety and material properties required to prevent feeder jams and machine stops.
Introduction – Beyond the Splice
Feeder-safe splice tape is more than just a connection point; it is a preventative maintenance tool. It refers to a specialized category of SMT splicing material engineered specifically to prevent the most common and costly feeder jams, machine stops, and component placement errors.
Unlike general-purpose tapes, a true feeder-safe solution has precise mechanical properties, optimal adhesive characteristics, and specific sensor compatibility required for high-speed, automated production lines. Choosing this material significantly reduces downtime and protects the delicate mechanics of your component feeders.
The Three Pillars of Feeder-Safety
- Adhesive Technology (The Clean Bond):
The adhesive must have optimal peel strength while leaving zero residue upon removal, preventing buildup on feeder mechanisms. - Mechanical Integrity (The Perfect Thickness):
The tape must meet exact, minimal thickness specifications to avoid friction or lodging in the feeder’s cover-tape stripping mechanism. - Sensor Compatibility:
The tape must have optimal color and reflectivity to allow the SMT machine’s optical sensors to pass the connection without error.
The Cost of Ignoring Feeder Safety
- Increased downtime and machine stops due to feeder jams
- Feeder damage and expensive repairs caused by cumulative adhesive residue
- Component waste and increased labor time required for rework