Siemens Logistics & Assembly Systems Inc. this month unveiled its first machine manufactured in Singapore, the SIPLACE HS-60 high-speed pick and placer. It’s the result of 14 months of development and technology sharing with the company’s Munich headquarters, and symbolizes a new path for the Germany-based equipment giant. Siemens L&A Americas product manager Tom Foley spoke with Circuits Assembly.

CA: What have you seen in the way of 0201 use?

TF: We are seeing a steady increase in the usage of 0201 components with a number of our customers. Of course, the usage is far greater in Asia than here in North America due to the large consumer electronics segment in Asia.

CA: Is procurement of equipment with that capability now the standard?

TF: The vast majority of new SMT placement equipment is 0201 capable. In fact, Siemens most recent machine release is specified to place down to 01005 components.

CA: There has been limited discussion about the impact of lead-free processes on placement. Yet, some papers have pointed to potential shortcomings concerns over the accuracy of older systems when it comes to placing lead-free parts. What is Siemens’ take on this?

TF: I have seen and heard information that indicates the “self centering” of components as a result of surface tension during the reflow process is reduced when using lead-free materials. The amount of the reduction has not been quantified, to my knowledge. The impact on the placement process could result in the need for improved placement accuracy or diligently keeping the placement machine calibrated with respect to accuracy. In addition, with all SIPLACE placement machines, we have addressed this issue with feeder verification software. This software is able to distinguish between components that have lead and those that don’t. During the transition to lead-free this would prevent a situation in which the lead-free line is placing components with lead.

CA: Earlier this month Siemens debuted the first HS-60 machine built in Singapore. What are your expectations for this machine going forward?

TF: The first machine built in Singapore is the tried and tested, most successful SIPLACE HS-60. This machine type has been very successful in all kinds of electronics production facilities and we see great demand for it. The machine is very much accepted worldwide, but especially in the Asian market.

CA: During that product launch, there were indications that Siemens wants to shift sourcing, R&D and production to Asia. How will that impact your employment in Germany?

TF: Siemens has not shifted its supply chain, but broadened it with the Singapore factory. Other equipment suppliers are content to simply manufacture in Asia, but Siemens is where its customers are with the whole supply chain. Consequently, being successful worldwide secures jobs in every part of the world.