In electronics manufacturing, every second drives profitability. Line stoppages – even brief pauses – trigger cascading delays and higher costs. One of the most common causes is reel replacement at the feeder on SMT pick-and-place machines.
This is where SMT feeder splice tape becomes essential.
By enabling seamless reel-to-reel transitions without stopping the machine, feeder splicing protects throughput, reduces manual intervention, and keeps automation running as designed.
This guide explains how the right splicing tape, clips, and tools improve line performance – eliminating one of the most costly sources of downtime.
SMT splice tape (often referred to as SMT feeder splice tape) forms a precision-aligned bond between two carrier tapes, allowing components to continue feeding without feeder removal, recalibration, or misalignment.
If a splice fails:
High-strength feeder splicing is not optional – it is a performance safeguard for any modern SMT assembly line.
Even one minute of downtime on a high-volume SMT line can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars – depending on placement speed and product value.
Downtime drives higher costs through:
Strong SMT feeder splice tape converts reel changes into an invisible, continuous process – preserving profitability.
Top-side adhesive with metal detection clip.
Best for: Paper carrier tapes
Strength: Moderate
Adhesive on top and bottom – such as double splice tape 12mm – ensures a reinforced joint that stays flat in the feeder track.
Best for: Embossed plastic carriers
Strength: High
A combined mechanical + adhesive interlock prevents separation under high-speed feeding and tension forces.
Preferred in: Aerospace, automotive, high-volume consumer electronics
Strength: Highest
All available in standard EIA-481 carrier widths.
The tape provides strength – the tool ensures precision.
A professional SMT splice tool:
The best SMT splice kits from Sierra Electronics include:
This creates faster changeovers with fewer operator errors.
1. Prepare the reels
Position expiring and replacement reels in the correct alignment.
2. Cut the carrier tapes
Use a cutting jig for clean, square tape edges that maintain pitch.
3. Align the pockets
Ensure component pockets meet cleanly — zero overlap or gap.
4. Apply splice tape and clip
Place the metal clip in the splice tool, add tape on top (and bottom if using double splice tape).
5. Crimp firmly
Apply uniform pressure across the clip to guarantee bonding strength.
6. Join the cover tape
Use yellow, black, or blue cover tape splice for clear visibility.
7. Feed into the SMT feeder
Advance the spliced section into position and continue without machine stoppage.
A standardized procedure is the fastest way to boost uptime.
Sourcing domestically is critical for assembly lines that cannot afford material delays.
TapeSplice.com supplies:
This eliminates the risks associated with low-quality imports and customs delays.
New challenges demand upgraded materials:
These technologies ensure each splice survives high-speed feeder acceleration and impact forces.
Every splice is a machine event
Every event must feed flawlessly
Strong SMT feeder splice tape prevents one of the most disruptive failures in electronics production.
Investing in:
…results in the most efficient, profitable SMT environment possible.
Take command of your SMT line performance with TapeSplice.com – the U.S. source for advanced splicing solutions engineered for continuous production.
