The Fixture Couldn’t Be the Static Problem

The manufacturer needed tooling for an electronics workflow.

Not big tooling.
Not complicated tooling.
But important tooling.

Holders. Trays. Nests. Assembly aids. Small fixtures that helped operators handle sensitive electronic components without slowing the process down.

The problem was simple:

“Can we 3D print this without creating an ESD risk?”

That is the right question.

Standard plastics can build static. Around circuit boards, sensors, chips, connectors, and electronic assemblies, that matters. A fixture that organizes the workstation but introduces electrostatic discharge risk is not helping the process.

That is where ESD-safe 3D printed materials and ESD-safe coatings come in.

At Jaeger Technology Group LLC, we help manufacturers produce 3D printed ESD tooling for electronics handling, assembly support, inspection, kitting, and workstation organization.

Depending on the application, the tooling may be printed from ESD-safe filament, conductive or dissipative thermoplastics, or standard 3D printed materials treated with an ESD-safe coating.

The goal is not just to make a plastic part.

The goal is to make tooling that fits the workflow without becoming the hidden static problem.

ESD-safe 3D printed tooling can be useful for:

  • PCB holders
  • Electronics trays
  • Sensor assembly fixtures
  • Connector nests
  • Inspection fixtures
  • Kitting trays
  • Workstation organizers
  • Protective handling tools
  • Test and assembly aids

For low-volume production, prototype lines, repair stations, and custom electronics workflows, 3D printing can be a strong option because the tooling can be made quickly and revised easily.

If the board changes, the fixture can change.
If the connector moves, the nest can be updated.
If the workstation layout changes, the tray can be redesigned.

That is the advantage: custom tooling without waiting on traditional tooling timelines.

Jaeger Technology Group LLC helps manufacturers create ESD-safe 3D printed fixtures, ESD-safe coatings for printed tooling, electronics assembly aids, PCB holders, kitting trays, and custom workstation tooling.

Because in electronics manufacturing, the fixture should solve the handling problem.

It should not become the static event everyone is trying to prevent.

About the Author: jaegertechgroup.com

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