What is Frameless Stencil
A frameless stencil, or a foil, is a type of solder paste stencil used in the PCB industry. Unlike traditional framed stencils, frameless stencils do not require permanent adhesion to a frame. Instead, they are designed to work with stencil tensioning systems, such as reusable stencil frames.
Frameless stencils are cost-effective. They are generally less expensive than framed stencils, making them a more economical choice for PCB manufacturers. Additionally, frameless stencils offer advanced quality and performance, ensuring accurate and precise solder paste application during the PCB assembly process.
Another benefit is their ability to save storage space. Since they do not have a permanent frame, they can be easily stored in a compact manner, taking up less space compared to framed stencils. This is particularly advantageous for PCB manufacturers who need to store a large number of stencils.
Frameless stencils are suitable for various applications, especially those with fine pitch components. They have a seamless open wall that allows for precise solder paste deposition on PCBs with a pitch as small as 16mil, making them ideal for micro BGA (Ball Grid Array) components and other small-scale electronic components.
In terms of turnaround time, frameless stencils offer a quick production cycle. They typically have a 24-hour turnaround time as a standard, allowing PCB manufacturers to meet tight production schedules and deadlines.
English 
German