How to select PCB trolleys and SMT reel carts
PCB trolleys keep circuit boards separated in slotted panels. SMT reel carts hold component reels on rods on both sides of the frame. To choose a suitable configuration, start with your board or reel dimensions, required storage quantity and the space available on your production floor.
YC ESD selection guide · Updated
Which type of storage equipment do you need?
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| Item | Equipment | Information needed |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit boards and PCB panels | PCB storage trolley | Board outline, thickness, component height on both sides and required quantity |
| SMT component reels | SMT reel storage cart | Reel diameter, overall width, center hole and quantity |
| Framed printing stencils | Stencil storage cabinet | Frame dimensions, thickness, quantity and access space |
Does the panel-series number tell you the maximum PCB size?
The 350, 460, 530 and 630 mm sizes identify the slotted-panel series, not the maximum PCB width. Board fit depends on the adjustable bay width, support orientation and full board outline. Use the overall trolley dimensions to plan floor space, and confirm the usable board space separately.
Provide the board length, width and thickness, plus the tallest component height on each side. Include protruding connectors and panel tabs in the overall dimensions. A dimensioned drawing or photograph helps us check slot fit and the clearance needed to load and remove boards.
How should you interpret board capacity and reel positions?
Nominal PCB capacities of 200, 300, 400 and 500 boards are based on 100 boards per bay without tall components. Populated boards may need empty slots between them to provide component clearance, reducing the usable capacity.
SMT configurations with 60, 70, 72, 84, 96, 112 and 120 hanging positions include both sides of the cart; these totals should not be doubled. A hanging position is not the same as a reel. Reel diameter, overall width, rod space and clearance between tiers determine how many reels will fit.
What should an ESD specification include?
PCB trolleys are available with standard or ESD casters. For use in an ESD-protected area, specify your floor conditions, grounding arrangement and acceptance criteria so the caster choice and assembled trolley configuration can be checked together.
Include any required resistance values, test methods or standards in your inquiry. Confirm the applicable test results and supporting documentation for your selected configuration before ordering; the ESD designation alone is not a certification.
What should you check for access and delivery?
Check doorways, aisles and the available storage area. Allow room to turn the trolley, apply the brakes and load or remove materials. For replacement casters, provide the mounting style, hole spacing or thread dimensions and a photograph of the existing equipment.
For a freight quotation, include the order quantity, destination country, city or postal code, and whether delivery is to a port or a street address. State whether you prefer assembled or knock-down packing. Packing dimensions, freight costs and lead time depend on the selected configuration and destination.
What to include in your request for quotation
- Product type or a reference photograph
- Dimensions of the items to be stored, with units
- Required storage quantity and preferred layout
- ESD, caster and access requirements
- Order quantity, destination and packing preference
Compare product specifications
Start with your actual board or reel dimensions, then confirm capacity, caster configuration and packing requirements for the selected trolley.