Tape and Reel Packaging

Carrier Material

Polystyrene or polycarbonate tapes are often used for their mechanical strength and anti static properties. Conductive or dissipative coatings prevent the buildup of electrostatic charge which could damage sensitive semiconductor devices. The reel itself must be sturdy enough to protect the tape from crushing during shipping.

Feeder Compatibility

Standard reel diameters of seven or thirteen inches allow the packaging to fit into a variety of machine types. The leader and trailer portions of the tape provide enough length for the machine to thread the material before reaching the first part. This format is the most efficient way to deliver millions of small parts to a production line.

Component Alignment

Each pocket is formed to the specific shape and size of the component to prevent it from rotating or flipping during transport. The pitch between pockets is standardized to match the feeder mechanisms on the assembly line. Accurate pocket geometry is necessary to ensure the vacuum nozzle can reliably pick the part.

The width of the carrier tape ranges from eight to seventy two millimeters.