Uni-form  epoxy performs are now available in M5-82, a linear epoxy system that remains flexible under temperature changes.  The post-cure flexibility of M5-82 improves adhesion to component materials with dissimilar coefficients of thermal expansion.  The epoxy was developed for under-the-hood automotive applications and other environments that require seal integrity under adverse temperature conditions.
  
Are one-part epoxy resins that are solid at room temperature.  When heated, they melt and cure, forming a consistent seal that protects components from dust, moisture, oil, flux, solvents, conformal coatings and other contaminants.  Close tolerances on preform dimensions, consistent pre-mixed ratios of resin to catalyst and consistent viscosity from beginning to end of batch ensure uniform, high-quality results.  Are available in multiple configurations, with outside diameters from .035" to .720".  Preforms can be dispensed as rapidly as 200 to 600 parts/min. with little or no operator training.  Reportedly eliminate pot-life concerns and costly cleanup procedures. 
 
Multi-Seals,  multi-seals.com

 
Anritsu has modeled the thermal performance of its products for a number of years but in the past thermal simulation was not fast enough to keep up with the rapid pace at which the company designs PCBs. So, thermal design had to wait until the prototype was built and mechanical engineers created thermal photographs and measured temperatures of the boards. At the same time engineers also modeled the product at the systems level with Flomerics’ Flotherm software. Typically, the simulation identified hot spots or other problems on boards. Engineers then went back and repositioned components, rerouted traces, and built a new prototype. The extra board spin added directly to the time required to bring the product to market.
 
About a year ago, Anritsu became one of the first users of FLO/PCB, a software package that makes it practical to perform thermal modeling during PCB design. Electronic engineers now provide mechanical engineers with placement information and data sheets on key components of the PCB. The mechanical engineers then quickly model the board and simulate its performance under standard airflow and temperature conditions. They often reposition components at this stage or add a heat sink and, when they are satisfied, then plug the FLO/PCB model into a Flotherm system model, which usually already exists, and determine the thermal performance of the board under actual conditions.
 
“Modeling PCBs during the design stage makes it possible to get the board design right from a thermal standpoint every time,” Whiting said. “This has eliminated the need for a second thermal prototype and saved us 4 to 6 weeks in bringing every product to market. In a typical example, FLO/PCB showed us that junction temperatures were too high on a couple of voltage regulators. The system level simulation showed us exactly where we needed to reposition the boards to get enough airflow. We provided that information back to the EEs designing the board, so they were able to get the layout right the first time.”
 

Promation has released the latest version of its multi-functional magazine handling system. The EMB-700 creates multi-functional in-line PCB handling through the use of magazines.
 
“One Touch Button” system allows this station to be programmed for the following: Line Unloading, Line Loading, Magazine Rack Buffer (LIFO or FIFO modes) or to simply act as a Pass-Through Conveyor. An upgrade to the Signature Series includes touch panel, automatic width adjusting and functional tracking through LCD readout.
 
Equipped with PLC, the rear magazine rack storage system is capable of holding up to five magazines. Features audible alarm, three-color light tower, ESD grounding receptacle, full safety vanity panels and “Easy Roll” wheels with leveling feet.
 
Promation, pro-mation-inc.com

NORTH BILLERICA, MA – BTU International has acquired the AtmoPlas technology and research team from Dana Corp. The acquisition provides BTU with 27 patents and filings in plasma processing through the use of microwave technology.
 
Financial terms were not announced.

The AtmoPlas process makes possible a new method of heating components where microwave energy is used to create a plasma at atmospheric pressure. Typically, plasma is generated under low pressure or vacuum, adding substantial complexity and cost to the equipment. The ability of AtmoPlas to operate without a vacuum offers several advantages over conventional microwave processing.

"We envision that after further development this technology will provide thermal processing solutions which could significantly affect processing flexibility, cycle time, equipment footprint and throughput in electronics and energy generation, as well as other applications," said Paul J. van der Wansem, BTU chairman and CEO.