Produção de placas eletrônicas: Um estudo para redução de não conformidades.

Abstract

The production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) plays a fundamental role in the development of electronic devices used in different areas, including educational projects focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teaching. However, manually performed assembly processes are subject to failures that compromise the final quality of the boards and increase rework and waste rates. In this context, this study aimed to apply Production Engineering tools to optimize the PCB manufacturing process used in educational electronic prototypes produced in a maker laboratory linked to a public higher education institution in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. The research was conducted through an experimental approach and action research, using tools such as PDCA, Lean Manufacturing, TPM and inspections based on electronic assembly quality criteria. Initially, 200 boards were produced, of which 66 were discarded and 24 required rework. After implementing the improvements, including operational standardization, expansion of inspection stages, application of poka-yoke devices and soldering standardization, a new production of 200 boards showed total elimination of discard and a significant reduction in rework, with only 6 boards requiring correction. The results demonstrated a significant increase in production efficiency and PCB quality, highlighting the contribution of Production Engineering tools to continuous improvement in small-scale electronic manufacturing processes.