Precision handling is mission-critical in SMT assembly. From wafer probe to final placement, components must survive thousands of automated touches without damage or ESD risk. JEDEC waffle and matrix trays are the protective backbone of that journey.
And now – they’re being built in the United States again.
A New Investment in Domestic Electronics Manufacturing
Sierra Electronics has installed a 200-ton ZOWEITE automatic injection-molding machine to bring JEDEC trays back to American production. This upgrade accelerates delivery and enhances process control while eliminating overseas sourcing delays.
The new system supports precision molding using conductive and static-dissipative engineering polymers – enabling:
- Tighter dimensional tolerances
- Improved stacking consistency
- Higher ESD reliability
- Lower warp and twist in high-temperature baking
Faster lead times. Superior quality. Made in the USA.
Why JEDEC Trays Matter More Than Ever
One dropped tray or one deformed pocket can cascade into:
- Mis-picked components
- Feeder interruptions
- AOI alignment misreads
- High-cost scrap and rework
Perfect component packaging = higher first-pass yield.
That is why JEDEC defines exacting standards:
- 322.6 × 136 mm outer frame
- 6.35 mm or 10.16 mm profile height
- Flat cells for vacuum automation
- Pin-1 corner chamfer and scallop alignment
- Stackable within family up to 5-7 trays
- Available in multiple identification colors
High-temperature 140-180°C trays support compliant MSL baking workflows (JEDEC J-STD-033)
Expanding U.S. Capability Beyond Trays
The same injection-molding investment powers U.S.-made:
- SMD component reels: 3″, 4″, 5″, 7″, 13″ (330 mm)
- Splice tools and reinforced splice tapes
This positions Sierra Electronics as the sole U.S. manufacturer delivering the complete SMT consumables chain – designed for aerospace, defense, energy, and high-reliability OEM production.
Made in the USA = Stronger Throughput, Competitive Advantage
Domestic manufacturing eliminates:
- Tariffs and unpredictable import lead times
- Quality variation from overseas brokers
- Counterfeit risk from non-traceable supply
Your components deserve verified protection from the moment they’re packaged.