Press Releases
CRANSTON, RI – AIM Solder, a leading global manufacturer of solder assembly materials for the electronics industry, is pleased to announce its participation in the upcoming SMTA Juarez Expo & Tech Forum taking place on May 9 at the Injectronic Convention Center in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. Among other great products, AIM will be highlighting its recently released NC259FPA Ultrafine No Clean Solder Paste.
NC259FPA is a zero-halogen paste engineered for precise print definition with type 6 and smaller alloy powders through stencil apertures less than 150 µm in diameter. Ideal for miniLED, microLED, die attach, micro BGA, and HDI boards, this innovative new product features excellent wetting, high transfer efficiency, high reliability, and high tack force for mass transfer.
To learn more about NC259FPA and to discover all of AIM’s products and services, visit the company at the SMTA Juarez Expo & Tech Forum on May 9th, or visit www.aimsolder.com
HAMBURG, GERMANY – Electronics manufacturers at DESY (Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron), a research center for fundamental scientific research, are utilizing the GRS550 flying prober from Polar Instruments to ensure the quality of their complex assemblies. DESY manufactures specific assemblies for various research projects, including the extremely sensitive detector electronics used in the IceCube neutrino telescope located deep within the Antarctic ice. These detectors track down elusive elementary particles from space, aiding scientists in their quest to understand the universe. The GRS550 flying prober plays a vital role in guaranteeing the functionality of these intricate assemblies.
The GRS550 builds upon the well-established GRS500 model previously used by DESY to test small series with low quantities as well as prototype PCBs and to perform fault diagnostics on complex assemblies. It offers enhanced features such as faster travel speeds and improved positioning accuracy. The GRS500 will remain in service as a backup system.
Optimized test procedures
“DESY’s production batches typically range from twenty to fifty assemblies,” explains Julia Müller, Group Leader of Electronics Production at DESY. “However, the IceCube project requires around three thousand components on over four hundred complex assemblies. The GRS550’s extensive testing capabilities using CAD data and fault diagnosis technologies are essential for such projects. Additionally, no competitor offered a comparable combination of cost-effectiveness and performance.”
Both the GRS500 and GRS550 are ideal for diagnosing faults in assemblies where traditional in-circuit testing is not cost-effective. The flying prober’s testing method compares a known-good assembly with the assembly under test using nodal impedance analysis and high-resolution imaging. This approach effectively detects component presence, misplacement, short circuits, opens, and faulty solder joints without requiring in-depth knowledge of the assembly’s functionality from the operator. Creating a test program typically takes an average of 2-4 hours, depending on the assembly size.
Efficient access to layout data
Polar Instruments’ import filters enable a wide range of CAD data to be imported into the GRS550 test system. The system’s repair software supports over twenty different CAD formats for programming and identifying faulty networks. “The GRS550 allows us to conduct tests at the nodal level and directly load specific data, circuit diagrams, and assembly documents from the layout program,” emphasizes Reischer, Managing Director of Polar Instruments GmbH. “This significantly simplifies test procedures and programming.”
The GRS550 test system will soon be upgraded to an even more powerful software platform, further enhancing its already impressive test capabilities. “We are planning additional functionalities based on advanced optical image evaluation, such as active testing to verify assembly function directly on the flying prober,” explains Reischer.
Emerging regulations like the right to repair present new opportunities for the Polar Flying Prober. “Since future regulations mandate technical repairability of devices, flying prober test systems can significantly contribute to pinpointing faulty components,” says Reischer. “This extends the life cycle of complex and expensive assemblies, promoting resource conservation.”
Polar Instruments is proud to support DESY’s vital research endeavors with their innovative testing solutions.
NASHVILLE – KYZEN, the global leader in innovative environmentally friendly cleaning chemistries, will exhibit at the SMTA Wisconsin Expo & Tech Forum, scheduled to take place Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at the Four Poins by Sheraton, Milwaukee Airport in Milwaukee, WI. The KYZEN clean team will highlight AQUANOX A4618 during the event.
KYZEN’s line of AQUANOX concentrated aqueous cleaning chemistries are specially formulated for a variety of processes and challenges associated with cleaning curcuit boards and PCBs. AQUANOX A4618 is a groundbreaking and versatile aqueous cleaning chemistry designed to address the challenges of cleaning contemporary lead-free flux residues while achieving exceptional, mirrored solder finishes.
AQUANOX A4618 is formulated with outstanding materials compatibility to effectively clean all flux types, is easy to use and boasts a long tank life in addition to high efficacy at lower concentrations and temperatures.
For more than 30 years, KYZEN has developed innovative chemistries that go hand-in-hand with unique cleaning processes. KYZEN solutions like AQUANOX A4618 meet cleaning challenges to bring efficiency and alleviate worries in your process.
For more information, visit www.kyzen.com
BOCA RATON, FL – Inovaxe is thrilled to announce that TTM Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTMI), a global leader in technology solutions, has purchased its cutting-edge SREX Racks directly off the show floor at the recent 2024 IPC APEX EXPO.
TTM Technologies, Inc. is renowned for its mission-critical technology solutions, including RF components, RF microwave assemblies, and advanced PCBs, all designed to shorten time-to- market for its customers. With a commitment to modernization and efficiency, TTM recognizes the benefits of Inovaxe’s SREX Racks in enhancing inventory management processes.
Inovaxe’s SREX Racks set new standards for inventory management efficiency, boasting an impressive storage capacity of up to 880 7" reels or 480 13" reels. Equipped with intelligent sensors and integrated lighting for part identification, these state-of-the-art racks offer lightning-fast retrieval and return times, reducing kitting processes from hours to mere seconds. Seamlessly integrating with ERP, MES, MRP and pick-and-place software, the SREX racks provide real-time inventory visibility, enhancing operational transparency and control.
Gerald Palmer, Assembly Engineering/Operations Manager at TTM Technologies, Inc., commented on the acquisition, “We are excited to integrate Inovaxe’s SREX Racks into our inventory management processes. We anticipate significant improvements in efficiency and productivity.”
Inovaxe’s SREX Racks are not only ESD-compliant but also equipped for Wi-Fi and internet connectivity, ensuring compatibility with modern manufacturing environments. With a typical return on investment realized in just 3-6 months, these racks represent a vital investment in efficiency for manufacturers seeking to streamline their operations and drive growth.
For more information about Inovaxe's innovative inventory management solutions, visit www.inovaxe.com
REDDITCH, UK – Altus Group, a leading provider of capital equipment, has recently assisted BitBox, a UK-based electronics design, engineering and manufacturing company in upgrading its operations with the implementation of a new reflow oven from Heller Industries. The advanced system promises to further enhance BitBox's production capabilities by optimising throughput, refining process control, and increase energy efficiency.
With over 25 years working in product design, engineering and manufacturing services, BitBox has consistently prioritised meeting the evolving needs of its customers. Recognising the importance of enhancing its Surface Mount Technology (SMT) reflow oven capabilities to align with growing demand, BitBox conducted a thorough evaluation process. Subsequently, with the help of Altus Group, the Heller 1826 MK7 was chosen as the ideal choice.
"The Heller 1826 MK7 delivers superior reflow oven performance through its extended heated tunnel, additional zones, faster throughput, and precise process controls," said Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group. "We are pleased to provide this solution to support BitBox's manufacturing expansion."
The Heller 1826 MK7 is engineered to maximize process efficiency and control. Its advanced low Delta T design achieves industry-leading thermal uniformity across 8 heated zones, enabling enhanced product quality while supporting precise profiling within strict process controls. The innovative flux management system incorporates a proprietary flux collection design, trapping residue for safe removal without shutting down the oven.
"We are delighted to have made this investment in upgrading and enhancing our convection reflow capabilities at BitBox," said Jonathan Green, Manufacturing Manager at BitBox. "Heller's reputation as a provider in the industry is outstanding, and we've tailored the system to maximize future-proofing options and deliver significant value to our customer base."
BitBox's investment in the Heller 1826 MK7 addresses key operational challenges and positions the company for continued growth. With increased throughput capacity, optimised uptime, energy efficiency gains, and data-driven quality focus, BitBox can scale up production volumes, maintain stringent quality standards, and realise cost savings through optimised energy efficiency.
"It's been a pleasure to support BitBox every step of the way," added Joe Booth. "Their dedication has been commendable, and I eagerly anticipate the exciting projects ahead with the BitBox team."
DURHAM, NC – Phononic, a global leader in sustainable solid state cooling, today announced the launch of a wholly owned subsidiary in Thailand as its APAC headquarters. The Thailand office will coordinate sales support and supply chain partnerships already active in the region. In 2020, Phononic announced a first-of-its-kind thermoelectric device manufacturing partnership with Fabrinet and has now engaged Forth-EMS, its contract manufacturer of integrated thermoelectric products and electrical systems. Combined with a consolidated supply chain, Phononic can now scale availability of devices, fully integrated solutions, and disruptive products to its partners and licensees that leverage its R&D and engineering design HQ in RTP, NC.
Phononic’s Active Cooling Solutions™ includes a combination of thermoelectric devices and fully integrated thermal subsystems and electronic control algorithms that bring disruptive products to life. Phononic has more than 20M thermoelectric devices providing mission critical cooling of optical transceivers in AI-driven data centers and LiDAR-assisted vehicles; successfully launched a comprehensive omnichannel grocery cold chain solution with connected services; and last fall announced a first-of-its-kind HVAC licensing agreement with Halton culminating in the debut of an 8500 m2 commercial building in Paris. This APAC HQ provides the company and their partners turn-key access to supply chain partners and a hub for sales and marketing support.
"As a provider of precision manufacturing services to original equipment manufacturers of complex optical, electro-mechanical and electronic products, Fabrinet is delighted to continue supporting Phononic as they expand," said Dr. Harpal Gill, President & COO of Fabrinet. "For over two decades, Fabrinet has maintained significant manufacturing operations in Thailand and we are excited to empower our customers to scale their businesses globally by leveraging our world-class capabilities."
Pichai Duangtaweesub, CEO of Forth-EMS, said: "We are excited about our partnership with Phononic and being part of bringing sustainable, innovative cooling designs and solutions to market. Forth has 30 years of manufacturing expertise in quality electronics products that have been deployed around the world. This togetherness fits perfectly into our vision of empowering partners to realize a smart and sustainable future through next-generation electronics products."
Now driving Phononic Thailand, Jelle Struiksma, SVP & Managing Director, added: "Phononic is providing solid state solutions at a global scale requiring accelerated lead times at competitive pricing and best-in-class quality and reliability; the partnerships formed with Forth, Fabrinet and others help lay a strong foundation for scale. We are excited to leverage our IP and our unique cooling solutions to create a better, more sustainable future."
