Sierra Circuits Boosts High Precision PCB Manufacturing with Schmoll Technology

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Sierra Circuits has seen increased success in production of multilayer HDI boards and high-speed signal architectures through the integration of a range of Schmoll Maschinen systems. The company’s current setup includes four MXY-6 drilling machines, two LM2 routing models, and a semi-automatic Optiflex II innerlayer punch.

Each MXY-6 machine in the X Series features six fully independent drilling stations, each equipped with its own Vision/CCD system. This configuration allows Sierra to align and scale each panel individually, improving drill registration accuracy and enabling simultaneous, independent operation across six panels. These machines are central to Sierra’s ability to meet high-volume production demands while maintaining precision under tight delivery timelines.

For innerlayer punching, Sierra uses the semi-automatic Optiflex II. This system handles delicate, ultra-thin materials with synchronized conveyor belts and a vacuum shuttle system. Alignment is managed by a high-precision XYPhi unit and eight CCD cameras. The machine features double cutting clearance to reduce mechanical stress on materials. Its integration with an SPC (statistical process control) database provides traceable, pre-lamination quality data that contributes to increased overall yield in multilayer fabrication.

Routing is managed through two LM2 machines, which are used to cut boards to final dimensions. These routers contribute to maintaining tight tolerances and clean edges on completed panels.

Technical support is a key factor in uptime performance. Schmoll America provides local service that Sierra relies on to ensure continuous production without prolonged interruptions. Rapid response times and technical reliability are prioritized due to the direct impact on production throughput.

According to Steve Carney, R&D Project Manager at Sierra, the combination of precision equipment and responsive service enables the team to maintain control over engineering challenges related to complex board builds.

This equipment setup is the result of deliberate investment over time to support Sierra’s process control strategy. Each machine contributes to a tightly coordinated workflow that supports the production of high-layer-count, tightly registered PCBs built to demanding industry specifications.