PCB pull and shear testing

Solution

• Software-controlled universal tester with advanced analysis software.
• Adjustable X-Y positioning table for precise alignment of test specimens.
• Custom-designed fastening jig and probes tailored to individual PCB components.

Benefits

• Semi-automated system capable of performing both solder joint pull and shear tests.
• Single machine meeting all IEC-compliant requirements for PCB quality control.

Requirement

One of the major manufacturers of PCBs wanted to test the mechanical integrity of surface-mount solder joints as per the IEC 62137-1-1 standard and IEC 62137-1-2 standard. Your soldering is done manually under a microscope with fine-tip soldering irons and tweezers, and therefore, quality control plays an important role in one's selling solder joints so that they do not fail during handling or operation.

The tests demanded the accuracy of PCB positioning at 45° in the case of pull tests and vertical positioning in the case of shear tests, and small parts could be placed without disturbing other parts.

Solution

Presto Stantest designed a bespoke testing system to address these requirements. The setup includes a universal test machine, dual load cells (50 N and 500 N), a fastening jig to secure the PCB at required angles, and an adjustable X-Y table for fine alignment. Special probes and hooks were fabricated to interact with miniature components reliably.

For pull tests, the PCB is mounted on the jig at a 45° angle. The X-Y table allows exact positioning of the component under a micro-test hook. A 50 N load cell provides precise measurement of low-force values, with a target maximum pull of 20 N for passing connections.

For shear tests, the board is positioned vertically, and the custom probe applies compressive force to shear the component. The load cell is a 500 N load cell that records the forces up to 300 N, which is the limit of the standard. The fastening jig guarantees the reproducible orientation of the two tests, and the X-Y table provides a possibility of access to any element on the PCB.

Test equipment

• OmniTest / OmniTest Touch UTM with VectorPro software.
• 50 N & 500 N cells
• Custom fastening jig supporting PCBs from 20 × 20 mm to 100 × 160 mm.
• Adjustable X-Y table for precision alignment.
• Special probes and hooks for pull and shear testing.

Test standards

• IEC 62137-1-1 – Surface mounting technology, Part 1-1: Pull strength test of solder joints.
• IEC 62137-1-2 – Surface mounting technology, Part 1-2: Shear strength test of solder joints.