News
BTU International (North Billerica, MA) showcased the newest version of its Pyramax solder reflow oven for surface-mount processing, the Pyramax 150 X5, at APEX 2004.
The new machine features lead-free process, low cost of ownership and a closed loop convection control for unmatched process control and repeatability. The 10-zone air or nitrogen capability, combined with 350°C maximum temperature and 24-in. board processing, provides process flexibility and throughput for high volume, high mix applications.
With increased heating and cooling performance and repeatable process control, the oven ensures an easy transition to lead-free production.
Reduced power consumption and nitrogen consumption as low as 500CFH decreases the cost of ownership. In addition, the available self-contained on-board water supply eliminates the need for a facility water supply.
The oven also offers a closed loop convection process to offer continuous monitoring and feedback of heating and cooling convection rates, with adjustments being made automatically through the system's operating software. The process control will be critical for lead-free processing.
Copyright 2004, UP Media Group. All rights reserved.
Kester, a business unit of Northrop Grumman Corp., has been sold to American Capital Strategies Ltd. for an undisclosed amount.
At a press conference on Tuesday during APEX, Dave Torp, Kester's vice president of marketing and business development, announced that the company has just one announcement to make at the show this year--they have been acquired. The acquisition allows Kester to break from the defense arena and return to their roots of supplying to the assembly, component, electrical and industrial marketplace.
According to Torp, the acquisition allows Kester more freedom. "We have increased flexibility and agility within the marketplace, and can generate more buiness, especially in foreign entities," he siad. "With them [American Capital], we are free to market globally, manufacture and support customers, especially in China."
Kester was sold to American Capital "lock, stock and barrel," said Torp. He added that Kester's management team remains intact.
Torp also said that Kester comprises a large portion of American Capital's holding portfolio, allowing Kester to keep up with this constantly changing industry and new technologies. Kester also has implemented a "phase-gate system" which will allow them to accelerate new product development from years to months.
American Capital's investment takes the form of a revolving credit facility, senior term loans, senior and junior subordinated debt and preferred common equity. Post-closing, American Capital will own 84% of Kester on a fully diluted basis. The remaining ownership in the acquiring company represents amounts under the employee options program, as well as equity co-investors.
www.kester.com
Copyright 2004, UP Media Group. All rights reserved.
Tyco Electronics (Willow Grove, PA), a business segment of Tyco International Ltd., is highlighting the Kanetic product line at the APEX show taking place Feb. 24-26 in Anaheim, CA.
Tyco Electronics signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Kanetic that resulted in Tyco assuming all responsibility for the manufacture, sales and support of the Kanetic product line. This agreement provides customers Kanetic's product offerings along with Tyco's financial strength and worldwide sales and service capability.
The product line features an adjustable length edge belt workstation, magazine unloader, an inline board destacker, inverter, and magazine loader. All products have adjustable length, dual speed adjustment, thin board capabilities, a control board and flow reversibility.
Tyco Electronics Automation Group (TEAG), a business unit of Tyco Electronics, is a supplier of automated equipment that is used in the manufacturing of printed circuit board assemblies and systems.
http://automation.tycoelectronics.com
Copyright 2004, UP Media Group. All rights reserved.
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