Custom wave solder fixtures are manufactured using the same Gerber and drill files which describe the board, to speed production and improve performance.
 
Datum Wave Solder Fixtures are designed using customer supplied Gerber and drill files, which allows precise routing for component bottom-side pocketing and permits thicker, stiffer and more stable fixtures. With stepped-down openings on the solder side to prevent turbulence and component skipping, the fixtures provide a positive-locking clamp system to secure the board and for complete solder coverage.
 
Virtually eliminate the need for glue dotting, feature precise routing for component depth to prevent solder flooding and facilitate trouble shooting. Accommodate densely populated boards with tall secondary side components, can solder through-hole components directly adjacent to SMT devices. Can be supplied for boards up to 24” W.
 

Datum Dynamics USA, datumdynamics.com

SynTECH-LF RoHS-compliant, Pb-free, no-clean solder paste is made with 100% synthetic poly adduct components. Compatible with tin/silver and tin/silver/copper alloys, with Pb content <200ppm. Reportedly delivers high hourly throughput with less scrap and rework, lot-to-lot and stencil printing consistency, wide process windows (12-hour stencil life, 12-16 hour tack) and 90% metal loading. Good for ICT, is compatible with OSPs without compromising SIR values. Is non-conductive and non-corrosive, with post reflow residue that acts as a protective coating and can be removed using t cleaners. Available in jars, cartridges, syringes and cassettes.
 
Amtech, amtechsolder.com

The compact X-100 reflow oven incorporates Phase Convection technology to offer flexibility and low cost of ownership. Was developed to provide enhanced quality control, enabling individual thermal profiling on a board-by-board basis and thermal performance within the confines of Pb-free soldering.  
 
Provides enhanced temperature uniformity and lower nitrogen usage and power consumption. Unit length is 3,350 mm, uses SPC control with pyrometers. Features a self-cleaning capability and is environmentally friendly.
 
X-600 Phase Convection system features a hermetically sealed loading system by which boards are loaded into one of the three levels. Each phase unit has a re-circulating convection system in which the temperature is regulated by a pyrometer that measures the exact temperature of the board, not the surrounding air. These measurements can be monitored by an on-system SPC data collection tool for traceability and closed loop control.
 
eXelsius, a ViTechnology brand, www.vitechnology.com

Elektrobit exhibited a range of equipment at Productronica in November. The focus was on a complete JOT Automation line, featuring a Bare Board Unstacker, Laser Marker, Segment Conveyor, High-Speed Router and Single Flat Belt Conveyor.
 
J904-033 Tray Feeder Vivian Ultra features fast tray feeding using two shuttles and a compact tray feeder to enhance tray transportation to and from the robot working area. The tray dimensions and tray feeding height are adjustable to accommodate a range of product sizes.
 
J501-44 High-Speed Router uses grippers to hold the panel in place, ensuring short cycle duration. Cutting speed is up to 60 mm/s, depending on the layout and material of routed product, with a cutting accuracy of ±0.15 mm.
 
J401-11 Tiny Test Handler was shown with new display tester software, able to test small LCD displays, keyboards and housings of electronics equipment. It claims to offer high accuracy display defect detection and immunity to significant variations in illumination, part orientation and the display’s protection tape.
 
Elektrobit Group Plc, elektrobit.com