HELSINKI – Incap UK has upgraded its first SMT (surface-mount technology) production line with the installation of the first fully automated high-precision solder screen printer of this model in the UK. This was followed by two advanced SMT placement modules. This upgrade marks the first phase of a EUR 1.5 million innovation investment, enhancing the efficiency, flexibility, quality, and capacity of manufacturing operations. As a result, an initial 33% increase in SMT production capacity has been achieved for the first line.

According to Jamie Maughan, the Managing Director of Incap UK, this upgrade is not only preparing the production lines for future demands but also integrating advanced software and machine capabilities that will drive efficiency improvement within the manufacturing cycle. "This investment also improves our SMT operational efficiency, production quality, and site technology. Additionally, it allows for energy savings through real-time intelligent machine monitoring, helping us better serve our current and future customers”, Maughan explained.

The current phase focuses on upgrading the first line and will be followed by the second line over the course of the year, using identical advanced machinery and software. This strategic update is designed to ensure each stage is optimized before continuing expansions.

The enhancements will enable improved data acquisition capabilities, combining cutting-edge Industry 4.0 architecture for advanced interfacing with future ERP systems. The use of intelligent technologies is instrumental in achieving these improvements and opens several other opportunities. Incap’s continued collaboration with Panasonic to upgrade technology to new levels of operational excellence reinforces Incap’s strong position in the electronic manufacturing industry.

"This investment marks an important milestone in our strategic technology roadmap”, Maughan added. "It reflects our commitment to reducing environmental impact and improving operational efficiency, while continuing to provide high-quality, flexible, and agile services to meet the growing demands of our customers."

Incap’s factory in UK, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, provides full turn-key product supply including PCBAs, electro-mechanical assembly, cable and wire harness assembly alongside a dedicated standalone rapid prototyping facility (Fast Track) and maintenance, repair and overhaul services (MRO). The factory has 4,400 square meters of total floor space and has experience in manufacturing since 1974, including over 20 years of experience in the defence, security and aerospace markets.

FARNBOROUGH, UK – GEN3, Global leader in SIR, CAF, Solderability, Ionic Contamination & process optimisation equipment, is pleased to announce the first shipment of its newly released next-GENeration CM Contaminometer Process Ionic Contamination Tester to a world renowned aerospace company at their facility in Germany. The sale was facilitated by GEN3's long established German distributor, Stannol. With history dating from 1920, the globally recognized leader in development, manufacturing and supply of high- quality soldering materials and solutions, Stannol has distributed GEN3 products across Europe for more than 20 years.

The aerospace company, with its rich heritage spanning more than a century in Germany, has been at the forefront of aerospace innovation. With numerous facilities across the country, they continue to push the boundaries of military and commercial aviation capabilities worldwide.

The new CM Series offers a range of groundbreaking features engineered to elevate user experience and deliver world-class measurement capabilities. It comes equipped with state- of-the-art software featuring a redesigned user interface, ensuring a seamless and enhanced testing experience. With an accelerated testing cycle completing in an impressive <6 minutes, the system offers enhanced efficiency without compromising accuracy. The redesigned hardware optimizes measurement capability, delivering enhanced accuracy and stability.

The cutting-edge Contaminometer is Six-Sigma (6σ) verified as a process control tool, setting a global standard for achieving objective evidence in contamination testing. Redesigned analysis tools enable effortless cross-referencing with library data, enhancing traceability features for comprehensive board history tracking. The system is further equipped with automatic temperature and CO2 compensation, ensuring precise measurements in compliance with the latest international standards. In addition the next GENeration CM boasts an array of other new features:

• New advanced traceability features for tracking boards and their history
• New capability to run ROSE test and PICT - In accordance with Objective Evidence
• New alarms for solution leakage and reduced ventilation
• New built-in conductivity meter
• Improved accuracy and stability with redesigned hardware for optimum measurement capability

The collaboration between GEN3, Stannol and the aerospace company represents a shared commitment to innovation, quality and reliability in contamination testing. By leveraging the advanced capabilities of the new GENeration CM Series, the aerospace company aims to enhance its quality control processes and uphold its reputation as a leader in the aerospace industry ensuring they are the leaders in their field.

For more information about GEN3 and its innovative testing solutions, visit www.gen3systems.com 

REDDITCH, UK – Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce that its pre-eminent supplier, kolb Cleaning Technology, has transitioned to fully recyclable packaging for several of their cleaning products. This change aligns with Altus' commitment to providing sustainable solutions in the electronics manufacturing industry.

kolb has introduced recyclable packaging for their ContraFlux® and MultiEx® cleaners, as well as most of their special cleaners. These products will now be delivered in grey canisters made from 100% recycled material, replacing the previous blue containers.

This initiative represents a step forward in reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility. The recyclable canisters can be easily processed locally after use, contributing to resource conservation.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO said: "At Altus, we strive to offer our customers high-quality products that meet their diverse needs. We're pleased to support kolb's transition to recyclable packaging for their some of their cleaning products. This change allows us to better serve our customers who are increasingly looking for more sustainable options in their manufacturing processes, without compromising on performance or quality."

Altus' commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by their recent addition of kolb's award-winning WPCL-EU module to their product portfolio. This innovative 'zero discharge' rinse water treatment module enhances Altus' ability to offer cutting-edge, environmentally friendly solutions to their customers.

By offering kolb's products with recyclable packaging and sustainable cleaning technologies, Altus continues to provide environmentally responsible options for the electronics manufacturing sector.

MILWAUKIE, OR – MaRC Technologies, Inc., a Manufacturers’ Representative organization, is pleased to announce the addition of Devon Piatkin to its sales team. Devon will cover the Oregon and S.W. Washington territory, bringing his extensive experience and dedication to client satisfaction to the company.

Devon, known for his strong sales acumen and customer-centric approach, was hired to enhance MaRC Technologies’ presence in the region. With a proven track record of building strong relationships and driving exceptional results, Devon is poised to make a significant impact on the company's growth and customer engagement.

"Empowering clients, building strong relationships, and driving results—my passion for sales is matched only by my relentless commitment to excellence," said Devon Piatkin. "I am excited to bring my dedication, genuine care for the customer, and a deep concern for all their needs to MaRC Technologies. I look forward to contributing to the company's success and helping our clients achieve their goals."

MaRC Technologies is excited to have Devon on board and believes his expertise and enthusiasm will be instrumental in further strengthening the company's market position. Devon’s ability to understand and address the unique needs of customers makes him the perfect fit for providing top-tier solutions and exceptional service at MaRC Technologies.

Please join MaRC Technologies in welcoming Devon to the sales team. For assistance in this territory, contact devon@marctechnologies.com