The products revolutionize the process of kitting and reloading SMT lines. The custom-configurable material handling solution allows numerous package types to be stored in a secure, controlled manner, whether that be reels, tubes, feeders or PCBs. The cart and software together increase inventory accuracy. Allows material to be received directly from the dock to stock/kits, eliminating non-value-added labor and the efforts of moving/transacting material into another stockroom after receipt.
 
The software was developed based on years of industry experience to deal with MRP systems that fall short of managing work in process. Uses “1 Package, 1 Location” technology to minimize machine setup/tear down and reload while maintaining accuracy of work in process inventory.
 
The supply chain management software increases visibility, presents actionable data, minimizes inventory liabilities and reduces cost. Helps increase SMT machine utilization accuracy and reduce unplanned material shortages by improving the inventory accuracy.
 
An SMT line can be loaded directly from INOCART on the line, eliminating kitting and staging of jobs prior to running on the SMT lines. Can hold feeders so kits can be presented to the SMT equipment ready to go.
 

Flowserve Guardian 3000 electronics cooling pump is designed to cool computer processors and graphics chips in high-end consumer personal computers.
 
Measuring approximately 90 mm in length and 36 mm in diameter, it is the smallest pump the company has ever developed. While the largest pump built by Flowserve has an impeller diameter of 4.24 m and would fill an Olympic size swimming pool in 25 sec., the Guardian 3000 has an impeller diameter of less than an inch and would take nearly three min. to fill a kitchen sink.
 
It addresses a daunting challenge facing manufacturers today – how to cool computer electronic components within limited dimensional, cost and power budgets. An overhung centrifugal, nonmetallic, magnetic-drive, seal-less pump, its patented motor technology and design achieve the small form factor necessary to fit microcomputer and other electronic package applications.
 
Is powered by a brushless 12-volt DC motor, designed for a minimum five-year maintenance-free life. Collaboratively designed and manufactured by the company's Memphis, TN; Vernon, CA; and Dayton, OH facilities, has successfully completed tens of thousands of hours of endurance testing and more than 40,000 cycles of on/off tests.

Flowserve Corp., flowserve.com

OK International has developed a series of enhancements for its Metcal MX-500 and SP200 soldering systems to optimize them for Pb-free manufacture.
 
The first is a range of SmartHeat PowerTips for the MX-500 system. Designed for Pb-free applications, the tips provide the high thermal performance, allowing the user to solder demanding joints without heat damage. European product manager Craig Brown explains: “If you simply turn up the temperature, you risk burning off the flux and ending up with an insufficient joint. Instead, we have developed a series of tips that are extremely efficient in transferring more energy to the joint.”
 
Different solder tip geometries allow different amounts of energy to flow to the solder joint. Calculated mathematically using its length, width and shape, each solder tip’s “Conductivity Factor” indicates how efficient it is in conducting this energy – the higher the number, the more efficient the tip.
 
Based on its most popular tip geometries, the company has introduced seven SmartHeat PowerTips for use with MX-500. It plans to add new geometries as Pb-free manufacture takes hold.
 
For the SP200 soldering system, the cartridges have been upgraded with a high-power coil assembly for additional power for Pb-free solder joints, with no need for increased source temperatures.
 
Both systems use SmartHeat technology to ensure that the solder joint being reflowed receives exactly the energy required. This eliminates the risk of heat damage and allows the solder tip to work at lower temperatures for a longer useful life.
 
In addition, Auto Sleep Stand interrupts the energy flow to the solder tip when the hand-piece enters the cradle, reducing tip temperature to a minimum idling level as it rests in the stand. Reduces oxidization that can be a problem with high-temp Pb-free solders and fluxes; this can be further reduced with the stand’s brass wire wool cleaning compartment. Tip temperature returns to optimum working levels within a second of the hand-piece being removed from the stand, so no working time is lost.
 
Two accessories clearly identify Pb-free equipment: first, a green cradle that can be inserted into the Auto Sleep Stand; and second, green Pb-free identification rings that can be slipped onto soldering tips and cartridges. 
 
OK International, okinternational.com
 

Compact, modular mySelective 6745 is an in-line capable selective soldering machine that is quick to set up and suited to a high mix environment. Ideal for medium volume assembly, makes setup fast and simple using ‘Easyteach.’ A simple graphic image of the assembly – a JPEG or flat scan – helps set up the soldering sequence for any assembly in a matter of minutes.
 

 
Incorporates a flexible robot arm that is controllable and allows soldering under an angle over its SelectWave, for better soldering in difficult-to-reach areas. Is highly controllable, providing flexibility and the capability to swap process steps.
 
Features a specialized lifting unit and SecureGrip PCB Gripper system. Gripper can be extended with specific functions, including warpage prevention; holding functions for non-planar PCBs; or holding critical components in position. Provides free movement to revolve around its U-axis, easy swap-out through quick- disconnects and is fully adjustable in length and width.
 
Eliminates the need for custom pallets; reduces waste and dross problems. <F"65 Helvetica Medium">
 
Vitronics Soltec, vitronics-soltec.com