When Should You Use Press-Fit Screw Machine Header Pins?

Header pins are a common component used in electronic assemblies to provide a connection between a printed circuit board (PCB) and other components or devices. There are various types of header pins available, including through-hole and surface-mount options. However, in some cases, press-fit screw machine header pins may be the best choice. In this post, we’ll discuss what press-fit screw machine header pins are, the advantages they offer, and when they’re appropriate to use.

What Are Press-Fit Screw Machine Header Pins?

Press-fit screw machine header pins are a type of header pin that combines two manufacturing methods to create a strong and reliable connection. The press-fit method involves inserting a pin into a plated-through hole in the PCB with enough force to create a mechanical and electrical connection. The screw machine method involves creating a pin by cutting and forming a metal wire with high precision.

The combination of these two methods results in a header pin that is mechanically and electrically robust. Press-fit screw machine header pins are typically made from materials like brass, copper, or phosphor bronze and are plated with materials like gold, tin, or nickel to enhance their electrical and mechanical properties.

Compared to other types of header pins, press-fit screw machine pins have a few key advantages.

Advantages of Press-Fit Screw Machine Header Pins

Increased Mechanical Strength and Durability

Press-fit screw machine header pins have a significantly higher retention force than other types of header pins. This means they can withstand higher levels of vibration and shock without becoming loose or disconnected. This increased mechanical strength makes press-fit screw machine header pins ideal for applications in industries like automotive, aerospace, and industrial automation.

Improved Electrical Performance

Because press-fit screw machine header pins create a direct metal-to-metal connection with the PCB, they have lower resistance and capacitance compared to other types of header pins that use solder. This can improve the electrical performance of the connection, resulting in better signal integrity and reduced noise. Press-fit screw machine header pins are commonly used in high-speed data transmission applications.

Easier Assembly and Maintenance

Press-fit screw machine header pins are easier to assemble and maintain than soldered header pins. They don’t require a high degree of skill or specialized equipment to insert, and they can be removed and replaced without the need for desoldering. This makes them ideal for applications where maintenance and repair may be necessary, such as medical equipment or industrial machinery.

Situations Where Press-Fit Screw Machine Header Pins are Appropriate

Press-fit screw machine header pins are a good choice in situations where high mechanical strength, reliability, and electrical performance are required. Some specific situations where press-fit screw machine header pins may be appropriate include:

High-Vibration Environments

Applications that experience high levels of vibration, such as in automotive, aerospace, and industrial settings, can benefit from the increased retention force of press-fit screw machine header pins.

High-Reliability Applications

In applications where reliability is critical, such as in medical, military, and space applications, press-fit screw machine header pins can offer a more robust and reliable connection compared to other types of header pins.

Large or Heavy Components

Components that are large or heavy may require additional support beyond what soldered header pins can provide. Press-fit screw machine header pins can offer the necessary strength and support to keep these components securely connected to the PCB.

Applications Where Soldering is Not Possible or Practical

In some cases, soldering may not be possible or practical, such as when dealing with heat-sensitive components. Press-fit screw machine header pins can offer an alternative solution that provides a strong and reliable connection without the need for soldering.

How to Specify and Use Press-Fit Screw Machine Header Pins

When specifying and using press-fit screw machine header pins, it’s important to consider factors like pin size, plating material, and insertion force.

Pin Size

The size of the pin should be chosen based on the size of the plated-through hole in the PCB. It’s important to ensure that the pin fits snugly into the hole without being too loose or too tight.

Plating Material

The plating material used on the pin can affect its electrical and mechanical properties. Gold plating is a popular choice for its low contact resistance and excellent corrosion resistance. Nickel plating is also commonly used for its durability and hardness.

Insertion Force

Press-fit screw machine header pins require a certain amount of force to insert into the PCB. It’s important to ensure that the insertion force is appropriate for the size and material of the pin and the plated-through hole in the PCB. Too little force can result in a loose connection, while too much force can damage the PCB.

When using press-fit screw machine header pins, it’s also important to follow best practices for PCB design and assembly. This includes ensuring that the plated-through holes in the PCB are properly sized and located, and that the pins are inserted straight and at the correct depth.

Conclusion

Press-fit screw machine header pins are a versatile and reliable option for electronic assemblies that require high mechanical strength and electrical performance. They offer several advantages over other types of header pins, including increased retention force, improved electrical performance, and easier assembly and maintenance. Press-fit screw machine header pins are appropriate for a wide range of applications, including those in high-vibration environments, high-reliability applications, and situations where soldering is not possible or practical.

When specifying and using press-fit screw machine header pins, it’s important to consider factors like pin size, plating material, and insertion force, and to follow best practices for PCB design and assembly. With proper design and assembly techniques, press-fit screw machine header pins can provide a strong and reliable connection for electronic assemblies of all types.