Lustig, Steven K.. wrote:
>
> We have received, passed through inspection (don't ask!) and assembled
> components onto  a number of panelized PCBs.  Now that we are ready to
> depanelize them, we notice that not only are the breakoff tabs not
> scored, but there are no perforations/drilled holes, only indentations
> which go part of the way through the thickness of the board.
>
> Aside from routing (I am concerned about the dust resulting from this as
> well as any stress being imparted on the board), does anyone have any
> suggestions on how we can depanelize these boards?
>
> Thank you in advance.
>
> Steven Lustig
> EMS Techologies
> Norcross, GA
> (770) 263-9200 x4714
> [log in to unmask]
>

If these are high-production boards, the cost of a panel punch might be
justified.  The panels are punched only where needed.  These are
custom-made tools, though, and can be VERY expensive for limited-run
boards.

--

    /\          Praegitzer Design
   /\/\         A Division of Praegitzer Industries, Inc.
  /\/\/\        Portland Design Center
 /\/\/\/\       7245 NW Evergreen Pkwy. #100
----------      Hillsboro, OR  97124

George Patrick, Sr. PCB Designer        Email: [log in to unmask]
Voice: (503) 531-2050 ext. 1813         Fax:   (503) 531-2051

##############################################################
TechNet Mail List provided as a free service by IPC using LISTSERV 1.8c
##############################################################
To subscribe/unsubscribe, send a message to [log in to unmask] with following text in the body:
To subscribe:   SUBSCRIBE TECHNET <your full name>
To unsubscribe:   SIGNOFF TECHNET
##############################################################
Please visit IPC web site (http://www.ipc.org/html/forum.htm) for additional information.
For the technical support contact Dmitriy Sklyar at [log in to unmask] or 847-509-9700 ext.311
##############################################################