What is SMT stencil and for what purpose it is used?

SMT Stencil is a thin metal sheet used in the soldering process for SMT (Surface Mount Technology) and it has precisely cut openings (apertures) that correspond to the shape and size of solder pads on a printed circuit board (PCB). SMT Stencil helps accurately apply solder paste to the PCB pads during the SMT assembly process, ensuring the correct amount and placement for each solder joint and and increasing overall production efficiency.

Framed SMT Stencil ( also called “glue-in” stencil) is laser-cut solder paste stencil, typically made of stainless steel permanently mounted in aluminum frame. It’s excellent for high-volume stencil printing on printed circuit boards. and has smooth aperture walls and can be used for 16mil pitch and below and for Micro BGA’s.