Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - Features

The X3 3-D x-ray system inspects PCBs with BGAs and other hidden solder joints. Gathers multiple oblique images to construct a rendering used in identifying solder and component-related defects on both single and double-sided boards. Selectively uses 2-D or 3-D to inspect specific regions. Permits discrimination between top and bottom sides of boards. A typical inspection program is said to be created in fewer than 45 min. Reportedly is suited for inline or offline applications. Has remote programming and real-time SPC software.

YESTech Inc., www.yestechinc.com

Slic Blade line squeegee blades are said to form a surface with low surface energy. Provide 100% electroformed nickel. Solid electroformed nickel reportedly will not chip or flake. Are said to provide lowest wiping pressure and longest blade life; enhanced stencil life and the least stencil damage. Eliminate solder paste sticking and shearing against the blade.

Fine Line Stencil, www.finelinestencil.com

ElectroLaser stencils offer the precision of laser-cut apertures and paste release properties of 100% electroformed nickel. Do not contain the trace elements that are liberated to the aperture walls, causing increased surface roughness. Offer the natural lubricity of electroformed nickel, which improves fine-pitch print consistency. Have a thickness tolerance of ±8% of material thickness selected, and are suitable for applications with surface area ratios to 0.55. Feature positional accuracy of ±0.008% and an aperture dimensional tolerance of ±8 µm (0.0003"). Come in standard material thicknesses of 0.003, 0.004, 0.005 and 0.006". Additional thicknesses available upon request.

Fine Line Stencil, a division of FCT Assembly, www.finelinestencil.com

The BOMcheck.net web database system enables companies to upload substances declarations to a single location for access by all participating manufacturers. Permits electronics producers to reduce the industry burden of ensuring REACH and RoHS compliance by compiling a centralised master database of substance data from suppliers. Will reportedly reduce costs by providing a central location for sharing data with
multiple manufacturers.

ENVIRON and COCIR, www.bomcheck.net

Slic laser-cut stencil is said to have mechanical and thermal properties of standard stainless steel, but superior paste release and aperture wall smoothness. Incorporate a base material with a denser grain structure said to result in fewer voids and the same tensile and yield strength as stainless steel. Have a repeatability of ±16 µm and are suitable for applications with surface area ratios of 0.55 and above. Featuring a positional accuracy of ±12.5 µm (over 600 x 600 mm) and an aperture dimensional tolerance of ±9 µm, the following standard material thicknesses are available: 0.004, 0.005, 0.006, 0.007, 0.008, 0.009 and 0.010". Additional thicknesses available upon request.

Fine Line Stencil, a division of FCT Assembly, www.finelinestencil.com

Kwik-Lok 100% stainless steel lifting pins provide convenience, speed, and safety in challenging applications and environments. Provide a 5 to 1 strength factor. Have a 17-4 PH stainless steel forged lifting ring to resist corrosion in harsh environments. Large opening accommodates a wide range of lifting hooks or hardware. Load spreader bar on each ring helps to prevent accidental actuation. Maximum lifting loads from 400 to 1400 lbs. Nominal pin diameters range from 1/4" to 5/8" and grip lengths range from 0.5" to 3.00".

Jergens Inc., www.jergensinc.com