Can i make these more sturdy?

[Doomguy42]

Hi, most of the boards I work on have Rows of these Darlington transistors. Is there any accepted way to make them more sturdy? They obviously generate some heat so I was wondering if there's any thing professional's do.
Thanks

 

[KeepItSimpleStupid]

I'd suggest these https://www.mcmaster.com/nylon-standoffs/male-female-threaded-hex-standoffs-6/ in nylon.

If you wanted to do metal then you would need shoulder washers.

I'm assuming the tabs are not electrically connected.

Another way is shoulder washers for each transistors, a nylon spacer and a piece of 4-40 all thread.
You might have to tweek a few solder joints, but it would be easier to insert. Nuts and a bellville washer.

 

[gophert]

They've been fine for the last 31 years, any attempt to "fix" it will likely end up in Sadness. I would look for a more protective chassis. What is it? A pen-plotter or chart recorder or...?

 

[augustinetez]

That looks like a pinball driver board.

As said, they have survived like this for decades and don't need any extra support.

 

[Pommie]

That looks like a pinball driver board.

That was my first thought. So much so that I thought I'd check how mine were supported, they're not.

As previously stated, they've worked fine like this for a (very) long time and will continue to do so.

Mike.