JPT Expands into PCD Microdrills for Advanced PCB Manufacturing

JPT Announces Strategic Expansion into PCD Microdrills

 JPT is expanding into PCD microdrills to support advanced PCB manufacturing for AI computing. As AI drives new requirements for PCB manufacturing, JPT is drawing on its expertise in precision laser processing and intelligent manufacturing to develop its high-performance polycrystalline diamond (PCD) microdrill business. Focusing on applications including AI servers, high-speed communications and data centers, JPT aims to overcome the limitations of conventional drilling processes and expand its capabilities in advanced precision manufacturing.

AI Computing Drives Innovation in PCB Drilling

The rapid growth of AI servers, 800G/1.6T optical modules and high-speed switches is pushing high-speed PCBs toward greater performance and higher levels of integration. High-performance laminate materials, including M9, PTFE and ceramic-filled materials, are increasingly being adopted, bringing greater material hardness and more demanding drilling requirements. Conventional carbide microdrills struggle to deliver both high quality and high efficiency under these conditions. Tool fatigue, drill breakage, short service life and frequent tool changes have become persistent challenges, limiting improvements in PCB drilling productivity and yield.

JPT PCD Microdrills: A New Standard in Drilling

JPT has officially introduced its PCD microdrills, using the exceptional hardness and wear resistance of polycrystalline diamond to address tool wear at the material level. Testing showed a tool life of 80–100 times that of conventional carbide microdrills. After drilling 30,000 holes, the PCD microdrill showed less than 50% wear on its main cutting face. This advanced addresses the challenges of drilling highly abrasive PCB materials and supports the next generation of mechanical drilling.

For demanding substrates such as M8, M9, PTFE and ceramic-filled materials, JPT PCD microdrills offer three core advantages:

- Longer tool life: A single microdrill consistently drills 30,000      holes in M8 substrates or 10,000 holes in M9 substrates, with tool life reaching up to 100 times that of conventional carbide microdrills.

- More consistent drilling quality: Cutting edges remain sharp throughout drilling,      maintaining consistent hole-wall quality and hole-diameter accuracy. Hole walls remain free of residual resin, with no resin smear on inner-layer copper. 

- Lower overall costs: Each drill produces substantially more holes than a conventional microdrill, reducing overall costs by approximately 25%. Fewer drilling machines are needed for the same production capacity, also reducing factory floor space requirements, labor costs, and operating and maintenance expenses.

Advancing Precision Drilling for the Future of Intelligent Manufacturing

JPT remains committed to creating lasting customer value through its core technologies. Guided by its “Photonics + AI” strategy, the company will continue to advance cutting-tool technology and deepen its process expertise, working alongside customers to address the challenges of advanced PCB manufacturing in the AI era.

By delivering precision throughout every micro-hole and creating value in every machining operation, JPT aims to help build the future of intelligent manufacturing.