Tape Splicer Tool

Step-by-Step Splicing Instructions

How to splice a new reel to a depleted reel during live SMT production

1. Insert the Splice Shim
   1. Place a Sierra Electronics splice shim into the splicer tool.
   2. Align the shim using the precision-machined alignment pins (3.5 mm centers per ANSI/EIA-481).
   3. Ensure the shim sits flat and fully locked.

This guarantees perfect sprocket-hole alignment — something Chinese tools fail to maintain due to poor machining tolerances.

2. Load the New Reel
   1. Pull the leader from the new SMD reel.
   2. Place the tape end on one half of the splice shim, aligning sprocket holes with the pins.
   3. Use the hold-downs to keep the tape flat and centered.

These hold-downs prevent skew, twist, and slippage during bonding.

3. Load the Depleted Reel
   1. Take the tail end of the depleted reel already running in the machine.
   2. Place it on the other half of the shim, aligning to the pins.
   3. Confirm both tapes meet cleanly with no overlap or gap.

You now have perfect mechanical alignment.

4. Crimp the Splice
   
   4. Fully close the tool until it completes its cycle.
   5. The tool will open automatically when the crimp is finished.
   6. This locks the splice shim permanently into both carrier tapes.

You now have a high-strength mechanical splice suitable for any feeder.

5. Remove the Spliced Tape

Lift the carrier tape out of the tool.
Inspect the splice — it should be flat, fully crimped, and centered.

6. Apply the Covertape Connector
   
   6. Select the correct covertape connector size (8/12/16/24 mm).
   7. Apply the connector strip across the two cover tapes.
   8. Press firmly along the entire surface.

• This step ensures:
  • Proper peel-back
  • No snagging in the feeder
  • Smooth travel through pick-and-place
  • Long-run stability

This is precisely where Chinese splice tapes fail — their adhesives do not hold through feeder-pull force, causing the splice to pop off mid-run.