What reelholder do you use for simple PNP machine ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: prutser
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2025, 08:11:31 pm
content: I am using a Pandaplacer and am evaluating some options for autofeeder SMD reel holders.I can find several 3d printable solutions, with most of them the reels "stands" in the holder. I seldom see the use of a shaft through the center hole of the reel. Any reason for this (might be more difficult to replace a single reel)Any experiences or suggestions are welcome.

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2025, 02:46:11 am
content: I had a Philips CSM84 some time ago. The feeders contained the reel holder as one piece. This machine was made by Yamaha. So, when you pulled the feeder off the rail, the reel came with it. I found this quite convenient. I now have a Quad QSA30A (made by Samsung) and the reel hanger is separate from the feeder. I find this rather cumbersome when having to reload a feeder in the middle of the rail. However, the Philips/Yamaha machine required CONSTANT fiddling with feeders, the Quad feeders feed a whole lot more reliably.Jon

author: LoanR
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 04, 2025, 08:25:56 am
content: Hi Prutser,Not answering your question but as you said you bought a Pandaplacer, what are your thoughts about it ? This machine looks good for it's very low price and to understand PNP machines before investing maybe more but there's very few reviews from users.

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 04, 2025, 01:44:42 pm
content: I don't know the Pandaplacer other than a quick look at the web site. I'm surprised it doesn't offer anything but I guess it is intended for mostly working with cut tape.Maybe something like these - they are all 3D printed and will bend slightly to allow swapping reels in between others. If you can do a bit of 3D modelling/printing you could come up with something that suits your needs and try it out at little cost.https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3810696https://www.printables.com/model/841275-lumen-pnp-slim-reel-hanger-adjusted-for-feeder-flohttps://www.printables.com/model/230805-lumen-pnp-slim-reel-hangerhttps://www.printables.com/model/179105-lumen-pnp-8mm-reel-holderYou could also do a rod mount through all reels, but as you suspect it is then a pain to swap any reels. If mostly just for full reels of common passives, maybe you don't need to change reels often.https://www.printables.com/model/337975-lumen-pnp-reel-holder-for-ikea-trotten-tableMy 3 PnPs all use different arrangements.- The NeoDen TM240A just has a bunch of slots the reels sit into - works OK until one jams... still have this set up for some old designs - access to reels is good, but feeding tape into the machine is painful- The Charmhigh T560p4 uses CL type feeders which each have a built in holder - I use this PnP the most, and working on the reels is pretty easy- The NeoDen S1/Tronstol A1 uses custom feeders with pins to hold reels - I've not used this for any production yet, so not sure how well the feeders work

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2025, 02:13:51 pm
content: Very few SMT feeders seem to use the hole in the middle of a reel. The most common approach is some kind of holder or a couple of rails the reel sits on, just deep enough that it won't leap out when the feeders pull on the tape. This holder on other machines might be attached to the feeder, or suspended below it or be part of the feeder trolley.something like this :https://docs.mgrl.de/maschine:pickandplace:feeder:reelholderor thishttps://www.printables.com/model/343598-smd-reel-holder-for-pick-and-place-machines(although I'd swap the PVC pipe for steel)would probably be more versatile than individual holders

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 04, 2025, 03:31:29 pm
content: Quote from: SMTech on March 04, 2025, 02:13:51 pmThat's a good one, but probably not very ESD safe with PVC pipe. I'd switch the pipe to Aluminium tube - lighter weight than steel.

author: Rat_Patrol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2025, 09:31:08 pm
content: If you are looking for actual feeders, good luck, especially if you want more than 8 or maybe 12mm.The best option would be a self-sensing electronic (at least actuated) feeder that reads when a component is picked so it automatically advances the next one. Some DIY designs are out there.If you are looking for a solution to simply hold the reels, do you have a 3D printer? I've been making my own for a while, along with manual assembly "feeders."

author: prutser
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2025, 07:31:02 pm
content: Thanks for all the tips, there are some solutions which seem usable, I certainly have some ideas.@Rat_Patrol I was only looking at the reel holders for the feeders (mainly 8mm)@LoanRI own a Pandaplacer, but currently still in the process of assembly and calibration, so no real world experience. It probably depends on what your expectations are.When I ordered it, I thought it was the best value for money (and that is still my opinion). You have to assemble and calibrateit yourself, which is quite some work, it has good support from the supplier. Feeders must be 3d printed. OpenPNP is imho an excellent piece of open source software, I was surprised about its maturity.The support on the OpenPNP forum is great. If you are new to OpenPNP, it takes some time (do not expect plug and play, imho if they would improve logging, it might help newbies a lot and reduce forum questions). I haven't done an actual PCB yet, but the first impression is, it should be useable for at least 0402.For me it's for hobby use, probably several times per year 1..5 PCB's (0603, 0402, 0.5mm pitch QFN/CSP). I try to adhere as much as possible to (for me) standard components (minimize component swap, feeder calibration). If you would ask me whether it is suitable for large production and professional use, I do not know, but it is also not a 20k+ machine. You can always send me a pm for more info.

author: LoanR
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 07, 2025, 07:32:48 am
content: Thanks for the answer.My use is the same as yours 0402 would be minimum package and if not possible, 0603 would be great. More than producing few "soldable" PCB's per year, I want to learn the basics of this practice, that's what I've done with my first CNC and 3D printer and I enjoyed the process.I won't forget to send you a pm in a few times to take news about the advancement