Reliability Matters

Stencil Design and Manufacturing Best Practices with Elias Malfavon Jr.

Reliability Matters

Show Notes

Today, we’re putting the spotlight on a critical component in surface mount technology, the stencil. These precision-engineered tools are the unsung heroes of electronic assembly, playing a pivotal role in ensuring accurate solder paste deposition and, ultimately, the reliability of your circuit assemblies.

It's been long said that reliability begins at the solder print, and the print begins with the stencil.

Joining us today is Elias Malfavon Jr, President of Metal Etch Services, Inc. a stencil manufacturer operating in San Marcos California. Metal edge services was founded 20 years ago in 2005.

We’ll explore the fascinating journey of stencil production, from design and material selection to the advanced laser cutting technologies that ensure microscopic precision.

We’ll also discuss the latest innovations in stencil technology, their impact on modern assembly processes, and how the industry is evolving to meet the challenges of ultra-high-density interconnects and miniaturization.

So, sit back, relax, and let’s uncover the critical role of SMT stencils in today’s electronics manufacturing landscape.

Elias Malfavon Jr's Contact Info: [email protected]

Metal Etch Services, Inc. https://metaletchservices.com

The D-Code Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@The-D-Code

More from Reliability Matters

Aug 25, 2026

Reliability Matters at 200: The Conversations, Lessons, and People Behind the Podcast

Aug 11, 2026

Adhesive failures can be frustrating because the problem isn’t always obvious. The adhesive may have been properly selected, the part may look clean, and the process may seem under control. But weeks or months later, a coating lifts, an encapsulant separates, or a bond fails in the field. So what went wrong?

Jul 21, 2026

Artificial intelligence is everywhere right now. It’s in the headlines, it’s being built into software tools, and it’s showing up in more and more conversations about engineering, manufacturing, quality, and process improvement.

Jun 23, 2026

Today, we’re going to explore a topic that seems to be touching nearly every industry, every workplace, and increasingly every part of our daily lives: artificial intelligence.

See all episodes →