DRILLIN, ROUTING, MILLING in PCB Manufacturing
The drilling, routing, and milling processes in PCB manufacturing create necessary holes for components and connections and shape the board. Here's how each step works:
1. Drilling
• Purpose: Creates holes for vias, through-hole components, and mounting holes.
• Process:
◦ Automatic CNC drilling machines use carbide drill bits or laser drilling (for microvias).
◦ Holes are drilled based on the PCB design Gerber files.
◦ High precision ensures proper alignment with inner copper layers.
2. Routing (Profiling)
• Purpose: Defines the final shape of the PCB by cutting it from a larger panel.
• Process:
◦ Automatic CNC routers follow predefined paths to cut out the board’s perimeter.
◦ Tabs or breakaway points may be left for easy separation.
3. Milling
• Purpose: Removes material to create cavities, slots, or complex board shapes.
• Process:
◦ Special milling bits or laser ablation carve out unwanted areas.
◦ Used for edge connectors, heat dissipation zones, or weight reduction.
These processes ensure precise shaping and hole placement, preparing the PCB for plating, soldering, and final assembly.
