Tooling for Press-Fit Connectors

There has been growing interest in press-fit technology versus conventional soldering method. In comparison, press-fit technology exhibits a number of advantages enabling more reliable PCB assembly and lower costs. A press-fit connector uses either solid or compliant type of pin to insert into the PCB through hole. Compliant pin, which compresses during insertion, is considered a better solution than solid pin.

In ordre to press-in all contact pins of the connector simultaneously into respective contact holes of the PCB, such a large force has to be evenly applied to the housing with the help of a properly designed press-in tool. The photo shows such a tooling developed from D2 tool steel by Eversun. Its work surface is everywhere in contact with the plastic housing but nowhere in contact with the brass units. This way the pressure applied can be evenly distributed on the compliant pin matrix without roughing the brass components. This range of fixtures is generally produced with a ± 0.05mm tolerance, heat treated to HRC 55 and chrome finished.