I used to work at a manufacturing plant, and of all the different tasks I performed each day at that job, one of the most common was fastening screws into small electronic components. If I had to do these applications manually, I don’t think I would have lasted one whole shift. Fatigue would have set in, my work would have become sloppy, and I would have ended up making potentially costly mistakes.
Fortunately, I was provided with the right tool to make the job easier: an electric screwdriver. Electric screwdrivers provide major advantages for anyone working in electronics because they pack power, precision, and an On/Off switch into a convenient and efficient tool. Using this tool saved me time and energy on the job and, as an added bonus, was also easy to operate once I understood the basic steps for use.
Types of Electric Screwdrivers
For light assembly applications such as electronics or manufacturing medical devices that require intricate work, an electric screwdriver is the ideal tool. It is a manageable size and delivers torque control and increased productivity. Plus, it will automatically stop when the preset torque has been reached, making it relatively simple to operate.
There are two basic types of electric screwdrivers: standard or brushless. For a standard electric screwdriver, there are small carbon brushes housed inside the tool that conduct electricity between the stationary wires and the rotating shaft. While this type of screwdriver is still very effective and precise, keep in mind that over time, heat can shorten the lifespan of the screwdriver. Standard electric screwdrivers typically require maintenance more frequently than brushless electric screwdrivers, depending on the number of screws tightened per day. Check the manufacturer’s maintenance interval guidelines to know when you will need maintenance for this type of tool.
As its name suggests, a brushless electric screwdriver does not contain brushes. Because this tool produces less heat, there is less wear and tear, giving it a longer lifespan. For the same reason, it can be a good choice for higher volumes of work.
How to Use an Electric Screwdriver for Electronics: Standard and Brushless
Standard and brushless electric screwdrivers are not difficult to operate. Still, it’s important to carefully review how to correctly use the tool before beginning work. After all, electronics work is delicate, and a small mistake could have big ramifications.
While both types of electric screwdrivers require many of the same steps to operate, it’s important to think about how they will be used day-to-day and to ensure you understand the joint application. When selecting the proper tool for the joint you are fastening together, it is wise to consider factors such as the type of screws and hardware involved, the type of materials you are working with, and whether the application involves sensitive assemblies like disk drives. If you find you are unsure about the fastening application, it is ideal to contact a torque specialist.
Here are the general steps to follow when using a brushless electric screwdriver that operates with a transformer (power supply):
- Start by attaching a power tool cable to the screwdriver and the transformer.
- Plug in the power cord to the back of the transformer and power outlet.
- Check the power indicator on the transformer. If it is not on, check the “on” and “off” switch of the transformer.
- Select the bit you want to use.
- Retract the bit collar.
- Insert the bit and release the retracted collar.
- Make sure the bit fits the head of the fastener.
- To set the torque limit, rotate the torque adjustment nut.
- To increase the torque, turn the adjustment nut clockwise. To reduce the torque, turn the nut counterclockwise to reduce the torque.
- Confirm the torque setting with a torque-testing system.
- To check for proper rotation, turn the driver on.
- Squeeze the lever to apply torque. For Push-to-Start models, place light downward pressure on the nose of the driver. The screwdriver will automatically stop when the preset torque has been reached.
- To remove the screw, flip the switch to Reverse.
The methods of operation between the two types of tools are similar, with some slight variations to take note of. Here’s how to typically operate a standard (with brushes) electric screwdriver that operates with a transformer (power supply):
- Attach the power cable to the screwdriver and the transformer.
- Tighten the ground ring.
- Plug the power cord to the back of the transformer and power outlet. Turn the power switch to “on.”
- Choose the bit you want to use.
- Retract the bit collar.
- Insert the bit and release the retracted collar.
- Turn the torque adjustment nut to set the amount of torque you need. Clockwise increases the torque, while counterclockwise decreases it.
- Switch the driver on and make sure it rotates properly.
- To apply torque, gently squeeze the lever. For Push-to-Start models, place light downward pressure on the nose of the driver.
- The driver will stop when the preset torque is reached.
- Remove the screw by turning the for/rev switch to the “reverse” position.
Whether you’re using an electric screwdriver for electronics on small, specialty projects or on a large-scale basis, the underlying principle remains the same. Connect your power, select and set your bit and torque, test your settings, and get to work.
The Benefits of Using an Electric Screwdriver for Electronics
Every job has unique demands, and many industrial assembly applications are required to meet strict engineering and governmental specifications to ensure fasteners such as screws are torqued correctly. As such, it’s critical that you use tools that give you the control you need for electronics applications, and a quality electric screwdriver provides just such precision.
The end result? Better productivity, less wasted time, increased comfort, and overall, a more efficient workday. That’s just what happens when you have the right tool for the job.
