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Four reasons to outsource SMT assembly services to China
While OEM manufacturers have different reasons for trusting SMT assembly manufacturers, cost is still the primary concern. However, low cost here does not mean low quality. People always think that my manufacturing is naturally cheap. However, this is not natural, but logical.
SMT (Surface Mount Technology) assembly is used in electronic manufacturing across various fields due to its lightweight, small size, high density, and superior performance. Therefore, selecting a reliable and cost-effective SMT assembly manufacturer as a CM (Contract Manufacturer) is crucial for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
For OEMs, outsourcing SMT assembly services to China is a wise choice, primarily to reduce costs. While this offers many advantages, it historically felt like a forced decision, especially when assembly costs were exorbitant in the OEM's location. However, collaborating with my SMT assembly manufacturer is the ideal solution for current OEMs, considering five aspects, which this article will discuss.
Reason 1: Low Cost
While various factors influence OEMs' trust in Chinese SMT assembly manufacturers, cost remains paramount. However, this low cost isn't a product of low quality. There's a perception that "Made in China" is inherently cheap. However, this isn't inherent; it's logical.
Manufacturing has long been a significant strength of China, resulting in readily available and inexpensive manufacturing equipment for SMT assembly. Consequently, production line costs in China are far lower than in other regions.
Machines manufactured in China are increasingly recognized for their precision, professionalism, and reliability. These machines are widely used in numerous industries, from transportation to oil exploration. Currently, many machines used in SMT assembly, such as solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and AOI equipment, are Chinese brands. Therefore, China has gradually replaced Japan as a leading global supplier of efficient and high-precision machines.
As a populous nation, China boasts a vast workforce in the electronics manufacturing industry. With China's accelerating urbanization, many young people have transitioned into the workforce, contributing to lower manufacturing costs.
In summary, low cost is the primary reason Chinese SMT assembly manufacturers are chosen as CMs.
Reason 2: Stable Environment
China is one of the few countries with a relatively peaceful and stable political environment. Most modern manufacturing occurs in developing countries, and China's political environment, while not static since its founding, has been relatively stable. Politics significantly impacts economics.
A peaceful environment leads to consistent production processes, relatively stable employee engagement, and predictable delivery times. SMT assembly is complex, requiring precise processes dependent on professionally trained SMT personnel. The stable political environment enables this consistency in China.
Furthermore, the Chinese government plays an active role in international trade and affairs, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, creating greater convenience across sectors, including electronics manufacturing. The government implements positive policies to foster more trade opportunities between China and other countries.
Reason 3: Abundant and Experienced Talent
As mentioned, China's large population provides a vast workforce for the electronics manufacturing industry. This large population base naturally creates a substantial talent pool for PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly, SMT, and THT (Through-Hole Technology). These individuals are proficient in equipment parameter settings, such as reflow/wave soldering temperatures, solder paste printing squeegee angles, scraping speed and thickness, and chip mounting speed. They also possess knowledge of SMT assembly principles and equipment logic, gained through training or experience. Importantly, they can predict potential defects during soldering and implement effective solutions.
China's large population gives SMT assemblers more opportunities to participate in SMT assembly manufacturing, resulting in extensive experience. This experience enables higher manufacturing efficiency, capacity, and shorter lead times. Therefore, SMT assembly services can be outsourced from China due to its abundant personnel and manufacturing experience.
Reason 4: High-Quality Assurance
China has changed significantly. While quality may have been a concern in the past, this is no longer the case. China is transitioning from a manufacturing powerhouse to a smart manufacturing powerhouse, meaning SMT assembly manufacturing in China is becoming increasingly intelligent. Since joining the WTO (World Trade Organization), China has strived to meet international standards in SMT assembly to expand its business.
First, thoroughly investigate testing and inspection solutions. Regardless of a CM's self-assessment, the best way to understand an SMT assembler's quality is through its inspection methods. Testing and inspection significantly contribute to quality control in SMT assembly. Common methods include AOI, X-ray inspection, ICT (In-Circuit Testing), flying probe testing, and functional testing. If an SMT assembler implements these tests and the assembled PCBs pass, their capabilities are reliable.
Second, prototypes are an effective way to test an SMT assembler's quality. PCB and PCBA prototypes demonstrate a CM's electronic manufacturing capabilities and long-term cooperation potential. This directly demonstrates the quality of their SMT products. If the prototype is acceptable, standard SMT components should only bring satisfaction.
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