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Published on Aug 23,2020
The 40th edition of SMT Today featuring Insituware, Robots, Austin American Technology and more! Read More
Home Explore Issue 40 - May/June 2020 - SMT Today
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GTEACMHEN-OCLHOAGNYGING AN INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL FREDERICKSON, CEO, INSITUWARE 2M0A2Y0/JiUssNue smttoday.com

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The first choice for AXI Performance, Speed and Precision techvalley-europe.com

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welco welcome to smt today EDITOR’S NOTES Editor Wendy Tindle [email protected] Welcome to the latest issue of SMT Today! global sales I trust everyone is staying safe and well in these unprecedented Andrew Carpenter times, and let’s hope the storm we are riding out, finishes soon! [email protected] On a positive note, we have added a section in this issue entitled events & sales ‘Manufacturing’s Finest Hour’, which includes a number of our clients who Stacey Bonnar have actually refocussed their business during this time by manufacturing everything from PPE through to ventilators – helping alleviate the pressures [email protected] of supply versus demand from the healthcare systems. Mr Michael Frederickson, CEO of Insituware graces our front cover this digital Marketing issue. Michael tells us about Insituware’s new Vision MARK-1, which Cameron Shaw is a handheld diagnostic tool, using technology which is a first in the industry. Michael explains how this revolutionary tool works, [email protected] applications it can be used for and how the design and performance add to its overall success. web & Marketing We also have some interesting articles from - Nick Walters, MD at Robotas, Gordon Brown revealing his company’s Best Kept Secret - from an anthology of authors from Zestron on Flow Simulation of Cleaning Media of Narrow Gaps Under [email protected] Electrical Components and David Trail Jnr, VP of Sales, discusses what sets his company, Critical Manufacturing, aside from the competition. design So, with these - along with many other articles and testimonials, our Lorna McClurg regular features of the latest Industry News and Red Carpet celebrations – [email protected] there is something for everyone. The next issue of SMT Today has an editorial deadline of 22 June 2020. Published by If you would like to advertise with us, contribute articles, news or high profile press releases, please contact us at [email protected]. Stay Safe! Wendy contacts SMT Today Ltd, 1 Dow Road, Prestwick International WENDYAerospacePark,Prestwick, Ayrshire, UK, KA9 2TU Tel:+44(0)1292 834 009 Email: [email protected] All right reserved The content of smttoday is protected by copyright law, full details of which are available from the publisher. While great care has been taken in the receipt and handling of material, production and accuracy of the content in this magazine, the publisher will not accept any responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions which may occur. Page 4 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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ome inside content this issue... 6 Director Spotlight 10 Interview with industry experts 18 6. An interview with Michael Frederickson, CEO, insituware Manufacturing’s Finest Hour Industry support to healthcare systems worldwide 10. The companies completely turning their business around to support the COVID-19 pandemic Technology Today Industry experts share their knowledge 18. Keeping COVID-19 Off the Production Line, AAT 22. The Best Kept Secret In Electronics, Robotas 24. Salem Technologies Practices Social Distancing with Scienscope Component Counter 26. Flow simulation of cleaning media in narrow gaps under electronic components, Zestron 44.  A Look into Critical Manufacturing 46. R outes to 3D Electronics: Assessment of Technologies and Applications, IDTechEx 52. Partner with Purpose: PRIDE Industries Takes Pride in Operations and Employees 54. JAVAD EMS Celebrates a Decade of Improving Electronics Manufacturing 56. Pillarhouse International Helps Megger Instruments Improve Production Throughput 58. PCBX Drives Digital Manufacturing with Help from Koh Young 30 Industry News What’s happening in the world of electronics 50 Red Carpet Out & about in the industry magazine Editorial & Advertising Enquiries contacts To enquire about available advertising opportunities, please contact: [email protected] | smttoday.com NEXT EDITION July/August edition Deadline for content: 22nd June 2020 Page 5

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SPDIORTELICSDPOIRTELCIGTOHRT Founded over a year ago, Insituware is an integrated technology that enables rapid assessments of materials during use. The an interview technology combines advanced analytical sensors, smart devices with Michael and intelligent cloud-based information with innovative packaging Frederickson, methods to enable nonintrusive sensing. We recently spoke with CEO, insituware Michael Frederickson, co-founder, to find out more about the company and how its technology may be the industry game- by smt today editor changer we have been waiting for. Q: MICHAEL, WE UNDERSTAND directly on the production floor (as THAT THE TECHNOLOGY USED IN opposed to in an expensive lab), the THE VISION MARK-1 IS A FIRST IN test modules cover many processes that THE INDUSTRY. CAN YOU BRIEFLY take place daily in the manufacturing EXPLAIN TO OUR READERS HOW environment. IT WORKS AND WHY IT IS SO The modular design integrates industry- REVOLUTIONARY? standard analytical methods and A: The Insituware Vision MARK-1 provides a simple way for you to control materials process control tool is the the materials in your facility. For example, complete solution for electronics the first Insight module is for solder manufacturing. Insituware’s Vision paste. It measures paste changes over MARK-1 is a handheld diagnostic tool time, from lot-to-lot and even measures that measures material changes in paste as it comes in the door. Your paste process materials such as solder paste, may have been delayed during shipping. underfills, and conformal coatings. How can you tell if it is still fit for use Additionally, it analyzes residue on your when you put it on the board? The Vision printed circuit boards. These tests are MARK-1 measures the paste as it sits on done with test modules (called “Insight” the board. What if your line goes down? modules that are expandable for future Is the paste on the stencil still good? Can design) that insert into the handheld an EMS provider prove that assembled unit. The system uses machine learning boards were built with viable materials? technology to provide adaptive material What if they only use a tiny amount of control solutions right in your hand. It paste out of a container and the rest is detects problems with your materials in refrigerated? Is it still good a week later? minutes – before you start – instead of Do you throw it out? downstream where problems are much more costly to fix. Q: DO YOU BELIEVE THAT CONTROLLING MATERIALS IN REAL-TIME WILL BE THE NEXT MAJOR LEAP TO INTEGRATING A FULLY FUNCTIONAL INDUSTRY 4.0 CAPABILITY? HOW SO? A: With the current trends in industry 4.0, you will have machines talking to one another and dynamically changing process parameters to improve yields. However, even after equipment talks to one another, you still have not controlled variations in the performance of materials in use. When your solder paste inspection (SPI) equipment talks to your printer, you can respond by changing printing parameters in an attempt to respond to materials changes, but you cannot prevent the problem from occurring in the first place by monitoring the performance of materials. Insituware’s technology allows you to be proactive in preventing defects from occurring and in ultimately tightening process parameters through better materials control. Measuring and controlling materials in a factory environment will be the next major step in improving yield and reducing defects. Q: IS THE VISION MARK-1 COMPATIBLE WITH OTHER TECHNOLOGIES? A: While there has never been a tool capable of testing materials Page 6 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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Now, with the Vision MARK-1, you can test it to be sure. important to prove that your boards were built to the What if paste has expired by one day or is two days highest standards. How would you prove the boards past its expiration date? Is it still fit for use? The Vision were built to these standards without this valuable data? MARK-1 gives you these answers and more. It takes into This tool becomes your failproof insurance policy. consideration the temperature and humidity in your factory environment and what effect these have on your materials. The easy-to-use platform and the plug-and-play design Being able to say you can produce perfect boards and ensure that the operator will find this tool very simple having the test results every step of the way gives an EMS to use. The cloud-based information system, which is company a real competitive edge when dealing with critical the core to the unit, reports usage and test data from jobs such as those in automotive, military, aerospace, and anywhere in the world. It tracks changes in materials due medical where failure is not an option. to environmental changes. Being able to access global data on any test will improve your process significantly. Another module for the Vision MARK-1 tests for Q: WHAT APPLICATIONS CAN THE TOOL residues that you might find on a board. Is this white BE USED FOR? spot something to worry about? Is it corrosive? Is it just A: The tool can be used in many different places and cosmetic? The Vision MARK-1 will tell you in minutes if for many different materials. Specifically, it can be used it is just cosmetic or something worrisome. Reports that at incoming and receiving of materials, prior to use you have tested the board are stored in the cloud for any after internal storage, or while in use on the factory job. If you have multiple facilities, the data for any of the floor. Additionally, the Vision MARK-1 is invaluable in tests performed on the unit can be stored for use in any troubleshooting factory-related defects where materials of your facilities. can shift, and changes can be the root cause of the Q: HOW DO THE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE defect. A couple of examples related to solder paste are OF THE TOOL ADD TO ITS OVERALL SUCCESS? (1) measuring solder paste prior to use to determine the A: The Vision MARK-1’s modular design is made to impact of shipping and/or after internal storage and (2) expand its testing abilities with the addition of new Insight measuring solder paste during use to determine how it modules. Every new test capability added increases the is performing in your factory environment. If your factory integrity and value of the base unit. It is user friendly and environment changes, such as humidity, this can impact the test parameters can be set up individually according the stencil life of the solder paste significantly. The Vision to the tolerance levels set by the manufacturer. The unit MARK-1 can measure and track solder paste properties can be as simple as a red or green screen for pass or that relate directly to the degraded stencil life. fail or as detailed as you want. The information collected on every test is stored in a cloud-based platform that The materials we are have and are designing into can be accessed at any time. If a product fails, it is so the Vision MARK-1 include solder paste, conformal Page 7

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featurecont. coatings, cleanliness, adhesives, and others. The change to the electronics industry. Our Insituware family plan is to develop and deliver a new material every is the essence of this company. Our core values are three months, providing continual enhancements and centered around family and taking care of them. upgrades to the Vision MARK-1. Insituware is a capable, nimble company that allows us to navigate the consequences of COVID-19 while still Q: HOW DOES THE INSITUCLOUD COME delivering solutions that improve customers’ processes. INTO PLAY? As a result, we are taking this time to develop new A: The Insitucloud gives you incredible power to material characterization methods so that when understand how your materials are behaving. It gives manufacturing companies ramp up, we will enable them you the ability to compare how materials are behaving to control more of their processes. over time, between different manufacturing lines in the same facilities or between different facilities. It also The cloud-based information allows the manufacturer and OEM to compare how the system, which is the core to materials are behaving against the global averages. the unit, reports usage and Using the power of the Insitucloud’s AI enables the test data from anywhere manufacturer to benchmark their materials and to better in the world. It tracks optimize the use of materials in their factory. changes in materials due to environmental changes. As an example, suppose the stencil life of your solder Being able to access global paste is around six hours in your factory environment. When you look at the global trends of the same material data on any test will improve in similar environments, you see the average stencil your process significantly. hours is around 8 hours. This offers you areas for improvement to get more value and save money using Q: DO YOU THINK THE PANDEMIC WILL CHANGE the same material in your factory. Another example THE WAY WE DO BUSINESS MOVING FORWARD? might be a specific material or a lot of material has HOW SO? HOW WILL INSITUWARE ADAPT? changed from the supplier. The Insitucloud’s global A: The electronics industry has experienced many trend reporting will notify you of the change similar to challenges including economic downturns, shifting manufacturing geographies, pandemics, material bans how you receive product change such as CFCs and lead, etc. Each time the industry notifications for components. finds solutions to overcome the impact and does so with increased efficiency and novel, nontrivial solutions. Q: WE’VE SEEN IN THE As we look to this pandemic and its long-term impact, NEWS THAT INSITUWARE at Insituware we believe that material characterization HAS INCREASED ITS and material control will be critical to optimizing the REPRESENTATIVE/DISTRIBUTOR process. Real-time understanding of the materials used PARTNERSHIPS SIGNIFICANTLY during the manufacturing process for any given product IN 2020. WHAT IS THE is the only way to provide objective evidence, complete REASONING BEHIND THIS? traceability, and achieve improved efficiencies and quality with minimal resources. A: Insituware is proud to partner with Q: WHAT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE THE INDUSTRY the best representatives, distributors TO KNOW ABOUT INSITUWARE TODAY? and agents in the electronics A: Insituware enables the manufacturer, the OEM, manufacturing industry. Our and the supply chain to instantly make critical, quality partnerships enable us to effectively affecting decisions at the manufacturing line. We are able develop materials characterization to deliver these solutions by taking complex analytical tools and bring them to the local tools that historically were found in labs, operated by markets efficiently. Insituware’s scientists requiring lengthy time periods, and making partners communicate key insights these quantitative techniques completely accessible about the needs of their customers, to the operator who will determine if the materials are which is critical in developing the right fit for use. For the first time, electronics manufacturing tools for the industry. Ultimately, these will have insitu means to directly measure materials. partnerships give the manufacturer We are always listening to the needs of the industry control over their materials that and welcome your input and perspective for material consequently reduce defects, characterization. improve yield and lower the cost of www.insituware.com manufacturing. Q: HAS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AFFECTED INSITUWARE NEGATIVELY? A: I would like to first thank all of the essential people required to work day-in, day-out during these challenging times. Whether it is in the electronics industry or not, they provide key services that make these unprecedented times better and our lives safer. Insituware is a unique blend of industry leaders, scientists, engineers, and designers motivated to bring real Page 8 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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For the first time ever in electronics manufacturing, take control of your materials with Vision. The Vision MARK-1 is an all-in-one materials analysis device that provides improved control in your electronics manufacturing environment by performing rapid assessments of materials on location and during use. Revolutionize control. Integrate control. Take control. Give us a call for more info 856.324.6776 Page 9

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anufacturing’ MANUFACTURING’S FINEST HOUR INEST HOUR One thing this pandemic COVID-19 has brought out on us all, is how we can all pull together and do our ‘bit’– from helping out elderly neighbours to switching up our manufacturing to support the gaping holes in supply versus demand in the medical industry. Here, we are proud to report on a few of our clients who have done just that! Please read on to see how some of these companies have completely turned their business around to support the healthcare systems worldwide:- America and its allies won World War II in Helping COVID Victims Breathe large part because of our country’s massive Based in Addison, Illinois, Pioneer Service makes a wide manufacturing effort. The number of tanks, variety of custom components, many of which go into planes, trucks, ammunition and other oxygen equipment, ventilators, respirators and hospital beds. essential war materials produced within a When COVID-19 began overwhelming hospitals and first few years was unprecedented. These gave us responders, many of Pioneer’s medical customers found an unbeatable advantage over our enemies themselves unable to meet the sudden upsurge in demand on the land, in the sea and in the air. for these vital pieces of equipment. Fortunately, when the calls began coming in, Pioneer Service was well positioned to do Currently, we’re in a different kind of war against the COVID-19 their part. virus. And much like World War II, we entered this war woefully “We had begun ramping up for strong growth before the onset undersupplied, lacking the tools required to diagnose and treat of the pandemic, so we already had the people and equipment it, while protecting those on the front lines. As someone who in place. The main issue was whether our suppliers could meet has spent my entire adult life in the manufacturing industry, it our need for raw materials. Most of them have come through, comes as no surprise that American manufacturers are once and we’re now committing 70% of our facility to making the again stepping up to the plate. I couldn’t be prouder of the components our medical customers need.” - Beth Swanson, way many are responding to the urgent need to produce the Vice President of Marketing for Pioneer Service tools and equipment needed to win this war. There’s a scene in In addition to ramping up production of their existing medical the movie “Apollo 13” in which NASA officials are discussing parts, Pioneer has begun making new components for the odds of getting the crippled space craft back home. The respirators and ventilators. They’re producing a new type of head of NASA comments that it could be the worst hospital bed system that makes it easier to move beds when disaster in the history of the agency. Gene Krantz, transporting patients from one location to another. Meanwhile, NASA’s Chief Flight Director, responds by saying, another significant challenge has reared its head – keeping a full crew when many employees have young children at home With all due respect sir, or take care of their parents. I believe this is going to be our “COVID-19 has turned everyone’s home life upside down, so we had to make some adjustments so employees can come finest hour. to work every day. We designated a person to shop and run errands for employees. We’re bringing lunch in once a week. I believe this is the finest hour for the manufacturers who have And we continue to look for other ways to reduce employees’ accepted the challenge of getting the needed supplies and stress so they can focus on their jobs.” equipment to the brave Americans on the front lines of the war As an ISO 9001 and AS9100 company, Pioneer Services on COVID-19. Here are a few of our customers stories. makes a clean working environment a top priority. However, going after germs has taken their cleaning protocols to a new level. Page 10 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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COVID-19 has turned everyone’s home life upside down, so we had to make some adjustments so employees can come to work every day. We designated a person to shop and run errands for employees. We’re bringing lunch in once a week. And we continue to look for other ways to reduce employees’ stress so they can focus on their jobs. Swanson continues; The single-use masks, which are assembled the correct specs and ensure the masks are “We require employees to wash their hands when by hand, have a simple design that consists made properly. It’s not hard to innovate when they arrive and leave work. We wipe down all of a plastic sheet to protect the face and an you know you can help protect those who are machine surfaces between shifts, and we don’t elastic strap to hold it in place. The elastic putting their lives on the line for us every day. allow visitors in the building. The hardest part is allows for a “one size fits all” mask that is Once we developed a framework for making the staying six feet apart because of the collaborative easy to put on and wear. Most important, masks, we were able start turning them out in nature of our work. the masks can be mass produced in large quantity.” - Jen Colton, Fortem Technologies’ Pioneer has a history of helping out in the numbers fairly quickly. John Schwanke states: VP of Public and Government Relations local community, but we feel an extra level of “We took a bit of a risk because we had to buy Like all businesses, Fortem Technologies commitment to the brave people all across the a lot of materials before we had any orders. Even is focusing on safety in the workplace. This U.S. who are battling the virus. We need to stay so, it was an easy decision to make. My thinking includes strict adherence to CDC guidelines well so we can help others recover.” was ‘if we build them, we can help.’” to work remotely, restrict travel, wash hands www.pioneerserviceinc.com Schwanke’s thinking turned out to be right on frequently and maintain social distancing. the mark. Initially, Lakeview Industries projected “We’re also focused on taking good care of each If You Build It They Will Come making 500,000 masks. They now expect to other, as well as our customers, neighbors and For the past 40 years, Lakeview Industries has ship at least 5 million, and possibly more. those on the front lines in our community. We been making custom foam, plastic and rubber “Our employees are the real heroes in this. plan to continue printing and delivering as many parts for many industries. Their medical products They’re taking a risk to come to work, yet they masks as we can until the need is met.” range from die cut cushions and molded silicone feel proud to be helping those on the front lines www.fortemtech.com bumpers to conductive gaskets that provide an fight this virus. Our team is doing a phenomenal electromagnetic interface (EMI) shield to protect job of turning out these handmade masks as We Will Get Through This sensitive electronic devices. Never did they quickly as possible.” It feels like every day I get a call from a customer expect to be making a product to help fight a www.lakeviewindustries.com that has increased production or shifted focus raging viral pandemic. to literally save their nation and the world. As the COVID-19 virus began to spread From Drones to 3D Masks These are a sample of stories from the family throughout the U.S., news of the drastic Fortem Technologies makes autonomous of manufacturers powered by Global Shop shortages of personal protection equipment drones and AI-driven software to protect against Solutions that are helping to defeat COVID-19. (PPE) disturbed company co-owner John malicious drones – products not even remotely When the chips are down, nobody can match Schwanke. In particular, he couldn’t understand related to the medical industry. But when the the creativity, innovation and problem-solving why protective face shields were so hard to come Provo, Utah police put out an urgent plea for capabilities of manufacturers. Yet, even these by. At the urging of his wife, Cathy, he researched protective masks, Fortem Technologies stepped are surpassed by their genuine caring and the type of face masks being used and decided up to the plate. concern for their country and the communities his company could make one. Their engineers immediately set to work they live and work in. When we all pull together, Within days, Lakeview Industries had produced producing protective masks using the we can do amazing things! Cheers to Part II and donated 40,000 single-use face masks company’s 3D printers. Within the first day, coming soon. to the state of Minnesota. Shortly thereafter, they had produced and donated 100 masks to Dusty Alexander, CEO & President, Global Schwanke’s phone began ringing off the hook the police department. After adding more 3D Shop Solutions, Inc with orders from law enforcement and trauma printers into the mix, Fortem Technologies is www.globalshopsolutions.com centers all over the U.S. Initially, it took about a now turning out 200+ masks per day, which are week to produce 100,000 of the masks. Now that being shipped to other police departments and Lakeview Industries has the process down pat, hospitals from Los Angeles to Texas. the firm expects to ship more than 250,000 a day. “Making protective masks isn’t our core business, so it took some time to figure out Page 11

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featurecont. MANUFACTURING’S FINEST HOUR Celestica Manufactures Ventilator Components for Medtronic in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic Celestica Inc. announced it is collaborating with Medtronic, one of the Over nearly two decades of working with customers to enable high- world’s largest medical technology, services and solutions companies, reliability medical devices, Celestica has focused on quality and regulatory to produce subassemblies for Medtronic Puritan Bennett™ 980 (PB980) compliance, underpinned by its ISO 13485 certified network. Celestica’s ventilators. collaboration with Medtronic is just one example of how the company is High-performance ventilators like the PB980 are primarily designed enabling its customers to increase production of critical medical devices for critically ill patients in high acuity settings and play a crucial role and equipment to help improve the outcome for COVID-19 patients. Other in the management of patients with severe respiratory illness, such examples include: as COVID-19, who require assistance because they cannot breathe • Increasing production of a portable ultrasound device used by doctors effectively. Production will begin this month. “We are committed to supporting Medtronic with critical manufacturing to quickly perform lung scans of patients exhibiting symptoms of and supply chain support for high grade ventilators that are in urgent COVID-19. demand for COVID-19 patient care,” said Kevin Walsh, Vice President, • Scaling to meet increasing demand for automated HealthTech, Celestica. “This agreement takes our decade-long blood analyzer devices used in the testing process collaboration to the next level and is a reflection of the trust that Medtronic for COVID-19. has placed in Celestica to help them meet unprecedented global demand • Adding additional capacity to support the immediate in these challenging times. production for a range of products including respiratory monitors and diagnostic systems that will be delivered to hospitals and temporary medical facilities. www.celestica.com Count On Tools Discounts SMT Tooling to Assist Manufacturers Count On Tools, Inc. (COT) is offering 10 percent off in-stock SMT tooling Count On Tools has been labeled Essential Critical Infrastructure until June 1, 2020. The company also has extended its 20 percent discount Workers during COVID-19 Response. This is based on the company’s on StripFeeders until June 1, 2020. support of manufacturing companies deemed essential by the “We realize that the current pandemic in the United States has greatly Department of Homeland Security. affected many industries, including electronic manufacturing services,” Count On Tools is a leading provider of precision-machined components, stated Curt Couch, Vice President. “To help businesses get through this SMT spare parts and Swiss-made hand tools, locally and globally. The time, we are happy to offer these discounts to our customers.” company has won numerous awards for its quality products and service. www.cotinc.com JCB joins national call to action over ventilator shortage JCB is poised to re-start production at a factory closed as a result of UK manufacturing plants after a fall in demand caused by the Coronavirus the Coronavirus crisis in order to join the national effort to manufacture crisis. Mass production of the housings could start in a matter of days. ventilators, the company announced today. Today JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “When we were approached by JCB received a direct appeal from Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier this the Prime Minister we were determined, as a British company, to help in month to help plug the national ventilator shortage and to help save lives of any way we could. This project has gone from design to production in just Coronavirus patients. Following the approach, JCB Chairman Lord Bamford a matter of days and I am delighted that we have been to deploy the skills promised to help in any way the company could and immediately mobilised of our talented engineering, design and fabrication teams so quickly at a a research and engineering team to examine potential ways to assist. time of national crisis. This is also a global crisis, of course, and we will naturally help with the production of more housings if these ventilators are Now JCB is ready to restart production at a eventually required by other countries.” factory which has been closed for nearly two JCB’s response to the national call to action would see the return to weeks as a result of the Coronavirus crisis. work for around 50 employees affected by an extended company But instead of making cabs for JCB diggers, shutdown announced last week. JCB suspended production at its the plant is being mobilised to make special nine UK production plants until at least the end of April as a result of steel housings for a brand new design of the Coronavirus crisis and furloughed the vast majority of its 6,500 ventilator from Dyson. A minimum of 10,000 workforce. The company is paying them 80% of their basic pay for the of the JCB housings are earmarked for manufacture once Dyson receives next month, regardless of what they earn. regulatory approval for its design. Employees returning to work to help manufacture the ventilator housings The first prototypes of the housings have been delivered to Dyson after will be paid 100% of their normal pay. rolling off the production line at JCB’s £50 million Cab Systems factory in www.jcb.com Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, which Boris Johnson visited during the election campaign. The factory fell silent on March 18th along with eight other JCB Page 12 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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MANUFACTURING’S featurecont. FINEST HOUR Converging Science & Care: KYZEN Provides Information to Keep Businesses Safe, Successful during the COVID-19 Pandemic KYZEN announces two important resources to help the industry during the demand and prices for IPA are likely to continue increasing rapidly due COVID-19 pandemic. During these uncertain and unprecedented times, to IPAs’ disinfectant qualities. Information about alternative solutions KYZEN stands out as a leader who continually converges care with science. can be difficult to come by for these types of applications. To address that information gap, KYZEN has developed a technical brief to help you Two free resources have been understand the alternatives and options. The technical brief can be found added to the company’s in the KYZEN E-knowledge Center by searching the keyword “IPA.” This E-Knowledge Center. resource includes useful information about safe alternatives to IPA as well as conservation techniques for those continuing to use IPA. The first resource is a KYZEN You’ll find KYZEN at the corner of Precision Cleaning Science and Care short summary including – the exact place the company has been since it opened its doors 30 recommendations about years ago. current practices involving “Our greatest hope is that all our industry friends, customers and partners hand sanitizers and lotions stay well during this pandemic. While we figure out how in manufacturing production to conduct business during this time, we want you to areas. This summary is based know that you and your families are in our thoughts,” on a paper developed and presented at IPC/APEX 2010 by Collins said Tom Forsythe, VP, on behalf of the entire KYZEN Aerospace and is available via this link https://kyzen.com/covid-19-tech- Corporation. brief/ along with the full paper. www.kyzen.com The second resource is a technical brief providing alternatives to Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA). Demand for IPA is spiking and, in these challenging times, MANN+HUMMEL and its subsidiary Tri-Dim Filter Corporation support Ford in medical equipment production with HEPA filter supply • Life Sciences & Environment Business Unit to supply 3,500 High applications typically has an MPPS Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter elements per day close to 0.2 μm. Respectively, filter class H13 has an efficiency of at • Co-development of innovative solutions to prepare for future least 99.95 percent. medical emergencies, such as powered air purifier respirators and “These critical times call for other medical devices extraordinary actions and cooperation. Using our state-of- As the coronavirus pandemic intensifies, the shortage of medical the-art HEPA filter production, in- equipment has become a critical issue. As a market leader in filtration, house cleanroom test labs, and MANN+HUMMEL will collaborate with Ford Motor Company, one of its valued relationships with partners key automotive customers, in the rapid development and production of around the globe, we can blend powered air purifier respirators. our talents and expertise to help MANN+HUMMEL will supply the HEPA filter in the Ford-produced people in need. Our global teams respirator, which will be worn by healthcare workers when treating have been working tireless to COVID-19 patients. To date, MANN+HUMMEL produces, tests and adapt to meet critical needs, with ships 3,500 HEPA filter elements per day for this application, from their rapid development and time to market. I couldn’t be more proud of our manufacturing sites in the USA and Germany. According to Ford, the team’s efforts to make a difference,” says Kurk Wilks, President & Chief automotive manufacturer is able to produce 100,000 respirators over the Executive Officer of the MANN+HUMMEL Group. next two months. With the acquisition of the European Vokes Air Group in 2014, Tri-Dim The respirators are equipped with class H13 HEPA filters according to EN Filter Corporation in 2018 and Hardy Filtration in 2019, MANN+HUMMEL 1822 or the international norm ISO 29463. These filter classes are also used added almost 90 years of leading air filtration and cleanroom technology in operating rooms and in the pharmaceutical industry to reliably remove expertise as well as a state of the art HVAC and HEPA filtration portfolio germs, viruses and microbiological contamination from the supply air. The to its unmatched portfolio of automotive and industrial filtration products European standard EN 1822 classifies HEPA filters, and evaluates them and services. according to their performance at the MPPS (Most Penetrating Particle www.mann-hummel.com | www.ford.com Size). The micro-glass fiber media used in pharmaceutical/healthcare MicroCare Offers New Surface Cleaners Amid Coronavirus Outbreak As the world sees the Coronavirus (COVID-19) have a greater impact on surfaces clean. “The Coronavirus outbreak led us to evaluate the availability of traditional cleaning products used in the manufacturing our product line and to identify those products that can be process, many industries are looking for ways to effectively clean their helpful to our customers,” said Scott Wells, MicroCare General products and workplaces. In response to those customer requests, Manager for Europe. “We have a new product that is ideal for MicroCare is expanding its line of surface cleaners in Europe. The cleaning surfaces.” purpose is to provide customers with reliable and effective fluids to keep Page 13

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featurecont. MANUFACTURING’S FINEST HOUR The new MultiClean™ MultiTask Surface Cleaner Spray provides safe fingerprints, grease and light oils commonly found in medical device and and high purity cleaning in almost any production environment. It electronics manufacturing. With excellent materials compatibility, it is effectively cleans a variety of working surfaces including tables, tools, safe to use on a variety of metals and plastics. machinery, gauges, keyboards, mobile phones and more. “When used with MicroCare General Purpose Wipes or Stencil Wipes, the It features a 70% high purity IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) and 30% D.I. new MultiClean™ MultiTask Surface Cleaner provides an effective way to (Deionized) water mixture that evaporates more slowly, allowing the help keep manufactured product and facilities clean,” concluded Wells. cleaning fluid to remain on surfaces longer, for better cleaning. MultiClean™ MultiTask Surface Cleaner is manufactured by MicroCare The new aerosol spray cleaner removes flux and white residue from in the UK, facilitating faster delivery to all users throughout Europe. circuit boards, solder paste and uncured epoxy residues from stencils, www.microcare.com Pillarhouse Working With The Electronics Industry To Fight Covid-19 Pillarhouse International is pleased to be supplying Selective Soldering Whilst Pillarhouse is currently operating greatly reduced staffing levels, Systems to a number of key, UK based, electronic equipment due to the UK government’s isolation policy, these Selective Soldering manufacturers to help in the battle to defeat Covid-19 (Coronavirus). This Systems have been assembled and tested from scratch in less than 5 days. week they will deliver two new Jade Mk II and PillarGEN nitrogen systems Managing Director, Nigel Monk, said “I believe that it is very important that to DVR Ltd and an additional PillarGEN nitrogen system to Jaltek Systems. Pillarhouse can help play an active role in helping tackle Covid-19”. He Along with another Pillarhouse customer, Nemco Ltd, these companies went on to say “I am immensely proud of our Pillarhouse employees, who are all helping in the manufacture of lifesaving ventilators. stepped up and helped, get this equipment out so quickly”. www.pillarhouse.co.uk PORTESCAP MOTORS SUPPORT LIFE-CRITICAL APPLICATIONS The COVID-19 pandemic is creating an urgent need for critical care Business Continuity Task Force as well as a Pandemic Response Plan to equipment such as ventilators and infusion systems, as well as increased ensure the safety of our customers as well as that of our employees. The requirements for lab analyzers. Portescap team is hard at work building motors that power ventilators, Portescap has been a leading expert in miniature motors and precision infusion pumps, clinical diagnostic equipment and many other medical motion control solutions for medical devices and clinical diagnostics for devices used in the fight against Covid-19. We are working closely with many decades and we’re proud to be able to play a critical role during device manufacturers to reduce the stress on the medical community this crucial time. However, more than technical expertise is required in created by the sudden surge in demand and shortage in supply. At these unprecedented times. Collaboration, speed, and flexibility are the same time, the health and safety of our employees, customers and needed as many of us work together to defeat this insidious opponent. communities is our top priority. We have been able to mobilize our global These elements are what make Portescap a formidable warrior in the fight teams to help sustain production and fulfillment, while ensuring their against Covid-19. Portescap’s team of engineers are no strangers to safety and health including virtual meetings, work space distancing and working closely with device manufacturers to create customized motion scheduled operational work shift teams in cooperation with the best- solutions that save lives. With our global manufacturing and engineering practice recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), presence comes an urgent responsibility to mobilize quickly as we national health organizations, and other local government agencies. We leverage our expertise, roll up our sleeves, and do our part for the medical are all in this together. Portescap’s commitment to making motors that community. As part of Altra Industrial Motion, Portescap has created a improve, enhance and save lives is stronger than ever. www.portescap.com PREVENT Receives FDA Approval Allowing a Safer, Affordable Emergency Ventilator Available Now The FDA has approved the production and use of PREVENT, PVA’s world to receive FDA approval to design and manufacture ventilators ventilator designed and manufactured in its Cohoes, New York under the COVID-19 EUA. headquarters to address ventilator shortages in the United States and PREVENT is unique to existing emergency ventilators on the market due globally due to the coronavirus pandemic. to its ability to titrate lung volume based on real patient data. A manually adjustable PEEP valve and an intuitive LCD screen allows clinicians to PREVENT is approved under the FDA’s easily set and monitor tidal volume, peak inspiratory pressure breaths Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), a fast per minute and inspiratory to expiratory ration in real time. An active track process passed in response to the spread alarm system provides immediate feedback to clinicians. of COVID-19. This authorization permits a Unlike traditional ventilators that require extensive training to use, wider supply base to produce ventilators and PREVENT is designed to be extremely user-friendly for healthcare medical supplies during emergencies such professionals on the frontline of COVID-19. Medical personnel that may as the coronavirus pandemic. PVA is the first be asked to help in an ICU or with COVID-19 patients due to the realistic company in New York State to receive design possibility of limited staff will be able to use PREVENT quickly, easily and manufacturing authorization. PVA is also the and confidently. first non-medical device company in the Page 14 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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MANUFACTURING’S featurecont. FINEST HOUR PVA is slated to begin shipping ventilators by April 30 and has set capacity approval,” stated PVA President Tony Hynes. “To be the only company in at 250 units per day. It is priced at a fraction of the cost of a traditional New York State to receive authorization and the only alternative company ventilator, making it ideal for communities and countries that are concerned in the world to be recognized by the FDA for ventilator production is about the coronavirus pandemic but have economic restrictions. something our team can be proud of at PVA. Someone, somewhere may “Governor Cuomo and President Trump have repeatedly called on now have a chance to survive COVID-19 because of what we are doing Corporate America to fill the void in manufacturing medical devices. Well, here in Albany.” here we are. In one short month, we have taken a concept through to FDA www.pva.net Resilience and a Rapid Response: How Ryder Pulled Together to Beat COVID-19 While Ryder Industries has Return to Production – Because of Ryder’s history of integrity and been up and running since close communication with government officials, we were one of the February 4th, we have first companies allowed to return to work. During the resumption of received many inquiries production, Ryder strictly implemented the government’s requirements about Ryder’s quick for epidemic prevention to ensure everyone’s safety. response to the Coronavirus. Government officials went over the preparation for return Now that so many of our to production with Ryder’s management team. How customers, colleagues and many people are returning? What areas are they friends across the world are facing the same challenges, we have decided coming from? How many masks do you have? to share our experience. Workplace isolation barriers were quickly set up and safety reports were posted daily. Every employee’s Ryder prides itself on its meticulous approach to high quality manufacturing temperature was taken twice a day, the public areas and engineering. Since its inception more than 40 years ago, Ryder has continue to be sterilized daily, and a staggered focused on continuous improvement, not only in its manufacturing, but shift policy was implemented to reduce the risks to also in the care that it takes to protect its most valued resource – its employees. On the factory floor, the distance between workstations was employees. One of our mottos is “Together, we make it.” For the Ryder increased substantially to 2 meters, the number of employees on each team, this motto has never felt more apropos than in the face of a threat accommodation floor was reduced, and the canteen was set up separate like COVID-19. tables so that staff could have lunch and dinner whilst observing safe social distancing. The pandemic began when most of Ryder’s people were at home with We are so proud of Ryder’s response to the pandemic! This is best their families for the Chinese New Year holiday. Ryder’s executive team illustrated by two key facts: zero infections for our people, and a record knew that the process of returning everyone to work would have to be output in March from our inland plant. At no point did our people suffer executed with precision and care, or people would fall ill. financially, either. Throughout the crisis, all employees were paid in full. Ryder prides itself on its resilience, and it is not just our business which Day 1 - the Pandemic Strikes endures, but our loyalty to our people. Perhaps success should not be – Ryder’s CEO Henry Wu leads measured during good times, but rather during times of hardship. Ryder’s epidemic emergency “Our company is really doing a great job in prevention and control team. As the news broke, he measures, so we feel very secure,” an employee who has worked at Ryder established his control center for 10 years commented. in our Shenzhen plant. Recovery, Vigilance and Going the Extra Mile – Back at full production, “After we organized our Ryder continues to take precautionary measures, knowing that any slip emergency team on January in quality control could lead to the epidemic’s return. We also know that 24th,” he explained, “We other areas of the world have been hit harder than us. Ryder has donated quickly established the hundreds of masks to a customer in Italy, a country hit very hard, with company’s prevention more fatalities than China. Our hearts go out to the rest of the world - stay mechanism, which we strong! #TogetherWeMakeIt. subdivided into sanitation and cleaning teams, information teams, procurement teams, and employee www.ryderems.com care teams to carry out specific tasks.” The emergency team promptly procured supplies, including 70,000 face masks, alerted staff, and contacted government officials for guidance and coordination. The Quarantine – Our Shenzhen plant faced an enormous challenge - 700 of Ryder’s 1200 employees had travelled far to celebrate with their families during the Spring Festival. Facilitating their return safely was vital. The company established a quarantine process, renting two local hotels exclusively for Ryder people. Food and lodging were provided free of charge to employees. These practical measures were important, but Ryder’s management recognized that it was essential to also consider colleagues’ mental health during this traumatic time. Counselling was made available to all, and over 250 employees accepted this support. The quarantine lasted for 14 days. Page 15

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featurecont. MANUFACTURING’S FINEST HOUR It takes a village: Sensor Networks, Inc. (SNI) helps local firm with COVID-19 supply-chain challenges. “If General Motors can repurpose automobile manufacturing plants in laser-cutting machine on back order and will Michigan and Indiana, so can SNI convert its transducer factory to support be asking the machine supplier to expedite its this urgent cause” says Jeff Anderson, President and General Manager. delivery to enhance production of these badly Clear acrylic face shields are in high demand and Mr. Vern Squier, needed face shields. “We’re happy to help President & CEO of the Chamber of Business & Industry Centre County however we can” said Barshinger. introduced two local companies to work together and help-out. “At times like these, it takes a village and Central After receiving base-stock materials from the local face-shield PA’s village is stepping up,” said Maureen L. manufacturing company and importing the component’s CAD file into Mulvihill, PhD, president and CEO of Actuated SNI’s laser-engraving & cutting machine, SNI quickly fabricated a few Medical, Inc. (AMI) of Bellefonte, PA. AMI shifted their focus to manufacturing face shields to prototype samples for approval. support medical professionals during the pandemic. “We’re grateful that Once given the green light to proceed, SNI started SNI joined our village to help meet demand.” quantity production including 300 pieces on the Sensor Networks, Inc. State College facility is deemed an essential April 2nd night shift. business and permitted to operate under Governor Wolf’s most recent Dr. James Barshinger, SNI’s Chief Technology stay-in-place mandate. Officer (CTO) indicated that they have a second www.sensornetworksinc.com Zollner Elektronik AG is Playing its Part: Respiratory Devices and Test Systems With their reliable and comprehensive support services, Zollner Elektronik Zollner’s know-how, though, cannot only be utilized for the treatment of AG is making a critical contribution to overcoming the Covid-19 pandemic. the ill but also in the stemming of the virus through quick identification Over 60 of the company’s customers are system-relevant; many of them of infected people. At the order of Qiagen, a biotech company, Zollner are established businesses in the Medical Technology sector. produces various systems to prepare samples for Covid-19 tests. The devices take over automated pipetting in the laboratory or cleanse the For example, Zollner produces the two DNA of contaminants for clear indication of the presence of virus DNA. modules for the pneumatic power supply Erwin Stöckinger, head of the responsible Business Division at Zollner and backup of a respiratory system from Elektronik AG says: “We are all very clear about what is at stake here. a renowned German Medical Technology For this reason our employees are working very hard, and for that reason Manufacturer. Our company is also a direct we are doing all we can to maintain the supply chain of urgently needed supplier of the entire electronics for the devices so hospitals receive new respiratory devices and labs can have respiratory system. Zollner Elektronik AG additional devices with which they can increase the number of tests.” was also involved in the development of the www.zollner.de monitors so we were able to bring our entire spectrum of services in, from research & development all the way to after- sales service. Beckhoff virtual visits keep industry connected Automation expert launches series of “virtual visit” webinars To support industry in remaining connected and productive during the “If there is one thing that all industrial businesses know, it’s that industry ongoing COVID-19 situation, automation technology specialist Beckhoff can’t, and doesn’t, just stop,” said Stephen Hayes, managing director of Automation UK is running a series of “virtual visit” webinars. Taking place Beckhoff Automation UK. “Whether a company is a critical business that every Wednesday, the webinars aim to provide engineers, technicians is directly contributing to address the impact of COVID-19, or an industrial and industrial managers with practical information on key automation business that is adapting to these changes, Beckhoff wants to support in technologies and issues. Information on the upcoming webinars is available as many ways as it can during this time. on the Beckhoff UK blog. “These webinars are equal-parts aimed at offering advice and guidance The topics for Beckhoff UK’s webinars are determined based on feedback to engineers, and at keeping in touch with customers during a time when received from customers and interested engineers. The current topics include everybody is distanced. The weekly webinars will take an informal, relaxed methods for sizing servo motors and modelling servo applications, first steps tone because they are as much about the connection between Beckhoff to deploying Beckhoff’s TwinCAT Vision software for machine vision systems, and the engineers that trust our technologies, as they are about industrial and an exploration of programmable versus non-programmable safety. connectivity itself.” Each webinar will be available on the Beckhoff blog after broadcast. Beckhoff will also run more formal webinar versions of its successful They will remain accessible alongside the existing EtherCAT network skills lab sessions over the coming months. Lead by specialists from the diagnostics and debugging webinar that Beckhoff ran at the beginning Beckhoff Automation UK team, these sessions will go into technical depth of April 2020. about more specific industry applications, such as advanced guidance for Alongside the ongoing webinars, Beckhoff UK will arrange a series of Beckhoff’s TwinCAT and TwinSAFE software. virtual visits directly with customers, to help them plan and adapt around the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 situation on industry. https://www.beckhoffblog.co.uk/events?utm_ source=Stone+Junction&utm_medium=PR&utm_campaign=BEC174 Page 16 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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TECHNOTLOODGAYYTTOEDCAH Keeping COVID-19 Off the Production Line By Steve Stach, Chairman of the Board, Austin American Technology COVID-19 Surprise, look who just showed up and changed our lives 88,217 - 293,381 and how we manufacture our products. It is estimated that by the year end, the COVID-19 virus will take a million lives worldwide – and the total economic impact could be in the tens of trillions of dollars in the US alone – This is a game changer! One of the better recognized independent models, created by Youyang Gu, estimates the deaths in the U.S. this year would range between 88,217 and 293,381. How serious is it? To put this in perspective, the pandemic has already taken tens of thousands of lives and has the potential to kill more Americans than cancer or heart disease has in recent years. HOW PROJECTED COVID-19 DEATHS IN U.S. COMPARE TO OTHER KILLERS Swine Flu Flu 2017-18 Cancer 2017 Heart Disease 2017 1918-19 Flu 2009 61,000 252,500 269, 583 675,000 12,469 The projected economic impact will be enormous. In a recent report produced by Oxford Economics, the researchers project a 7% drop in world GDP in the first half of the year, and a 3% shrinkage year to year. Some say this is optimistic. Manufacturing is a key component of the world economy and provides much of the capital that feeds the service sectors. The economic effects of manufacturing are multiplied through economies worldwide. The bureau of Labor Statistics reports there are 12.85 million manufacturing jobs in the U.S. making up 8.5% of the total workforce. These jobs pay 12% more on average. With so many people working on product production lines, there is a huge need to protect the places we work and to provide a product free of Coronavirus risk to our customers. Just about all of us have been issued stay at home orders, face mask use, hand sanitizer and told not to gather in large crowds. Protection is also needed for production lines which are critical in maintaining our Page 18 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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supply lines, infrastructure, jobs, and economy. As Identify COVID-19 transmission paths with protecting your family at home, the answer starts COVID-19 has occurred from infected humans as the with understanding the virus and the role people and source. The primary method of transmission is either materials play in its transmission paths. by breathing airborne particles or by transferring the The Virus virus from a contaminated surface to the mouth, nose, or eyes. The CDC reports viable COVID-19 virus is Scientific American magazine reports the COVID-19 found in bodily fluids including sputum from the upper virus most likely jumped from bats to humans, in Wuhan, and lower respiratory tract, blood, and stool samples. It China in late 2019. Bats are known to carry hundreds of corona virus species. The family of corona viruses are so named for the corona like projections that emanate from its mostly round body. Well known relatives include the MERS, and SARS viruses. Although it may not be as lethal as some of its cousins, it is much more contagious, spreading around the world in just a few short months by human contact and airborne viral particles. A single virus measures only 50-200 nm across. In real world measurements, it would take more than 1000 single viral particles called virions to make a single ring around a human hair. Because of this, thousands of viral units could be transferred by a single cough or touch to the nose. Under normal circumstances, contact with a single virus will not make you sick because our natural barriers like skin, hair, and mucus stop most viruses before they implant in the body. Size comparison of COVID-19 virus is not yet known if other non-respiratory body fluids from The concentration of viral particles in bodily fluid is an infected person, including vomit, urine, breast milk, or called the titer. Harvard Medical School said that new semen can contain viable infectious COVID-19 virions. evidence indicates that the titer is sufficient to transmit Materials can become contaminated by infected the disease 2-3 days before symptoms appear. humans and can remain contagious for days. This is These particles can remain viable at room temperature very dependent on the material and the environmental and are capable of infecting others anywhere from hours conditions. The New England Journal of Medicine and to a week depending on conditions and the surface it a recent Lancet Microbe study indicates the COVID-19 resides on. virus can remain viable on paper money, glass, plastic, New studies suggest more than half of the cases of and most metals, for up to four days. Surfaces like infections detected by antibody testing showed no signs copper or silver and other materials like cardboard killed of infection. Reuters reported that 60% of personnel the virus faster. aboard the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt, who tested positive for COVID-19, appeared healthy and Surface time to ND showed no signs of infection. Transmission Paths into and out of the Paper 3 hrs Factory Copper 3 hrs People and materials are the primary transmission paths onto the manufacturing line. Both have been shown to Cloth 2 days transmit the virus with quite different timelines. Airborne particles typically remain viable for up to a Wood 2 days few hours, while viruses on certain surfaces can remain viable for several days. With the possible exception Glass 4 days of bats, cats, and dogs, all known transmission of Paper money 4 days Stainless Steel 7 days Face mask 7+ days Virus survivability on various surfaces Page 19

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featurecont. These tests were performed at ambient conditions. basic personal protective equipment before entering Other studies suggest that this time is cut short if the the production area. Once people in the factory have temperature is increased. become infected, contact tracing and isolation is the Site Plan best current method of preventing spread. Personal Protective Equipment Each manufacturing site should have a pandemic plan for Production to protect employees, customers, and vendors health, More protection is needed at work than at home as well as the business. Companies that do not have a because of a combination of greater exposure risk and pandemic plan are creating one. Companies that have higher economic consequences. An outbreak on the a plan are updating it. Plans reveal how your site would line could jeopardize human health, stop production, manage the health and safety of people in a pandemic and send everyone home for a quarantine time of up to like the COVID-19 outbreak. It should address other two weeks. A chronic ongoing corona infection could anticipated items like supply chain disruptions and cripple a manufacturing company. At home, soap and personnel shortages. The IPC has issued a Special water and a face covering will usually get us through the Report on COVID-19 and best practices for worker day safely. health. It is available on the IPC web site. In the factory, we may not be able to wash our hands Manufacturing is a key component of the every time we handle materials and product. Gloves, world economy and provides much of the hand sanitizers, and conductive finger cots allow us capital that feeds the service sectors. The to touch people and materials safely and should be economic effects of manufacturing are an essential part of a production line PPE. PPE that multiplied through economies worldwide. contacts circuitry such as gloves or finger cots should be ESD safe. Hand lotions are not recommended on Check People Before They Enter the production line. Shoe coverings can keep the floors the Factory cleaner if practical. All masks are not created equally One of the best ways to keep the virus out of the Face masks are an essential part of the COVID-19 PPE factory is to check the people coming into the factory. arsenal. Face covering comes in all sizes and shapes. This includes everyone- workers, management, They have been shown to minimize the airborne particles vendors, contractors, friends, and family. No one generated when we breath, talk, cough and sneeze. should be exempted. Screening should include a Some are homemade while others meet very stringent body temperature scan, and a physical inspection, do requirements. N-95 and level 1-3 ASTM masks, provide they look sick? Each person should be asked if they filtration levels sufficient to block most viral particles. have been exposed to anyone who has the virus or if N-95 ASTM level 3 ASTM level 2 ASTM level 1 Low Bandana level Bacterial 95.0% @ 0.1 99.9% @ 3.0 99.9% @ 3.0 98.4% @ 3.0 99% @ 4.0 40% @ 3.0 filtration micron micron micron micron micron micron Efficiency (BFE) Particle 99.9% @ 0.1 99.8% @ 0.1 99.7% @ 0.1 95.0% @ 0.1 90% @ 0.5 20% @ 0.1 Filtration micron micron micron micron micron micron Efficiency (PFE) they have had any COVID-19 symptoms in the last few A comparison of face mask performance weeks. If the answer is yes to any of the questions, they should be temporarily denied access. Just remember, a Coronavirus particles range in size from 0.05µm to 0.20 large percentage of infected people can carry the virus µm. The fit of the mask to the face is very important. and never show symptoms or, can be contagious prior A poorly fitting mask is ineffective. A new face mask to showing symptoms. should be issued every day. Soiled masks should be Social distancing rules of one-meter minimum properly discarded. separation should be maintained whenever possible. The Effects of Temperature on the Virus This screening process should continue until 60% or Newsweek reported that a new study indicates the more of a population is immune by surviving the virus or COVID-19 virus can survive for one hour at 60 degrees by receiving immunity through a vaccine. Centigrade (140 Fahrenheit). They went on to report that Because we are uncertain of who may be spreading the it took an exposure of 15 minutes at 92 Centigrade (194 virus, it is essential that each person should have the Fahrenheit) to kill certain strains of the virus. In a report Page 20 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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published by Lancet Microbe, the virus was reported Higher temperature quarantine can shorten the cycle very stable at 4 degrees Centigrade and therefore could but this requires continuous monitoring to certify the remain viable for much longer periods of time. virus is killed. Disinfecting Product with Existing Cleaning Equipment temp. time to not Most circuit board manufacturers have cleaning detectable equipment and testers on the production line that can be used to sanitize the tools and products. 4C 14+days Alcohol based systems require an exposure to a 70% 22C 14 days IPA concentration or higher for one minute to kill the 37C 2 days virus according to the WHO. Most circuit board tester/ 56C 30 mins cleaners use a mixture of 70% to 99% solution of IPA 70C 10 mins with DI water. Circuit cleanliness testers may be limited in tank size because they are designed to test one circuit Time required to kill COVID-19 at various temperatures at a time. Other larger IPA cleaners that are used for pre- COVID-19 Sanitizers for People and conformal coat and final cleaning in medical applications the Facility are available with larger tank capacities. Water based cleaning systems are often used to clean There are many types of sanitizers. In general, they are flux and other contamination from circuit assemblies. broken into 3 categories; for humans, for the facility, These, too, can be utilized to kill and remove the virus for the product. Various commercial formulations are on product and tooling. Water only cleaning system available for disinfecting people and materials from the may remove the majority of virus contamination, but Coronavirus. A full list of EPA approved disinfection process temperature should exceed 65 C for more than chemicals can be found on the EPA web site. 15 minutes to be considered effective in attenuating Facility sanitization should be put on a regular schedule the virus. As reported earlier in this article, minimum and should include production, cafeteria, and restrooms. process temperature of 92 C is required to kill the virus Air handling systems should be kept in tip top condition completely. This can occur in the wash or rinse or drying to minimize airborne particulates. operation, but the drying cycle is preferred as it comes Hand sanitizers come in two types, alcohol based last and avoids recontamination possibilities. and non-alcohol formulas. The non-alcohol formulas Water based cleaning systems with cleaning agents can generally rely on water with a quaternary ammonium lower the temperature required to attenuate or kill the salt. Alcohol based hand sanitizing formulas use either coronavirus. Soaps and detergents in water have been ethyl or isopropyl alcohol. shown to kill the virus at room temperature with a short The World Health Organization recommends alcohol- exposure time by attacking the lipid coating surrounding based hand sanitizers with at least 70% alcohol. Non- the virus. Many, but not all, aqueous based cleaning alcohol-based sanitizers are not proven as effective on agents have surfactants that would attack the lipid shell. corona virus as the alcohol containing formulas which Contact your chemical supplier for more information on kill the virus in less than one minute. Washing hands for the specific product used on the production line. Bleach, one minute with soap and water is still considered the ammonia, and other household disinfecting agents can most effective method of hand sanitization. harm electronic circuits and should not be used. Product Sanitization Summary and Conclusions Just ask the sales and marketing department and they No one knows how long the COVID-19 pandemic will will tell you the products need to be “COVID-19 Risk last or what the long-term economic effects will be. Free”. This could be a crucial advantage in selling the One thing that is for certain, factories that keep the products we produce in the foreseeable future. How virus off the production line will have an advantage over can we assure our customers that the product they are the ones that do not. This requires an understanding buying will not make them sick or die? of how the virus works, lives, and dies. Manufacturers Perhaps we can look to the medical industry as they with a dedicated team and a focused plan will keep the deal with this all the time. How do they accomplish COVID-19 virus off our production lines. this with delicate surgical equipment and implantable References devices? They use a variety of approaches using UV 1. “Global Effect of COVID-19” Report, May 1, 2020. light, ethylene oxide gas, or nuclear irradiation. Although Congressional Research Service. https://fas.org/sgp/crs/row/ these methods are effective, they can be dangerous, R46270.pdf complicated, and require a sizable capital investment 2. Dr. M. Marshall. Podcast “If you have been exposed to the and technical expertise to operate. A lot to ask for when coronavirus” March 2020 updated April 27, 2020, https://www. we do not know the duration of the current problem. health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/if-youve-been- A better approach for electronic manufacturers is to exposed-to-the-coronavirus use existing processes and equipment to sanitize the 3. IPC SPECIAL REPORT: COVID-19 AND BEST PRACTICES product. Time, temperature, and production equipment FOR WORKER HEALTH PROTECTION IN THE ELECTRONICS can be used to sanitize circuit boards, tools and storage MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY, April 27th update, http://www. containers. Existing circuit cleaning equipment and ipc.org/emails/gr/covid-worker-report-042420.pdf ovens can be drafted to disinfect product surfaces at 4. Osborne, Hannah “Coronavirus can survive high temperature incoming inspection, work in progress, and for the for long time” Newsweek, 4/15/2020 https://www.newsweek. completed product. com/coronavirus-heat-kill-virus-1498074 Product Quarantine 5. in A W H, Chu J T S, Perera M R A, et al. Stability of SARS- Many studies show the COVID-19 virus cannot remain CoV-2 in different environmental conditions. Lancet Microbe viable outside a host for more than a week at ambient 2020; published online April 2. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2666- conditions. So, the simplest way to remove the 5247(20)30003-3 coronavirus risk is to quarantine the product before 6. van Doremalen, Bushmaker, & Morris New England Journal shipment for a minimum of 14 days at room temperature. of Medicine, Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1, March 17, 2020 www.aat-corp.com Page 21

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOEDCAHI was once told by a good customer, “Nick, what you and your team do is one of the best kept secrets in the electronics The Best Kept industry. You’ve had a huge impact on our business”. Secret In Robotas Technologies Ltd. began in 1985 with a firm focus on production Electronics in the electronics manufacturing industry. The original Robotas objective, pioneered by founder David Walters, was to develop an easy- By Nick Walters., to-use solution that would guide an operator to select and fit the correct managing director, component to the right place on a PCB every time. It also had to be Robotas Technologies Ltd affordable and simple to use and build. That’s how the company’s first product – Mascot – was born. In 2002 Robotas moved to new UK Headquarters in Harrogate in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. When Nick, David’s son, joined the family business. In 2010 he used his background in Human Resource Management to develop the team of Engineers and Specialists that make up the company today. Despite the prevalence of surface mount circuit technology today, hand assembly remains a key process in the production of PCBAs and subassemblies. Components, including power semiconductors, switches, connectors, keypads, coils, transformers and displays are just some of the many challenging devices that typically are still assembled by hand. Any part of a manufacturing process undertaken by hand is inevitably open to human error. Robotas Hand Assembly Systems remove that possibility. Assembly of products by hand is also traditionally an area of the production process which is very hard to capture accurate production and traceability data – Robotas systems have these angles covered too. Optimizing PCB assembly is where Robotas initially focused their attention, but today their business extends far beyond this area. If you have an operator stuffing PCB’s then a Robotas Mascot system will eliminate placement errors and speed up production. If you have people assembling mechanical products or subassemblies, then a Robotas Sigma system will give the same benefits as a Mascot system and guarantee repeatability of the build. If you have production side stores, a Robotas Smart Store will eliminate picking errors and drastically reduce handling times. If you use production kits to supply your assembly cells or production lines, a Robotas Material Manager system is the most efficient and economical way to prepare and handle those kits. Over time, Robotas have developed great technology and solutions to optimize customer’s manual assembly processes – however this is not enough in today’s market. Integration and traceability are the key drivers for all our customers. We now live in the era of big data and Industry 4.0. We believe that we are the only company to provide full traceability of manual assembly processes today. If you assemble a product using a Robotas system, we can provide full traceability of the of the build actions and also the parts and tools used in the build. At Robotas we call this ‘Creating a Product’s Birth Certificate’. You can even include snapshot images of any stage of the build into the Product’s Birth Certificate. Page 22 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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For many years now, we have been integrating operator’s Typical EMS/OEM companies that we work with are assembly data into production control systems such as forward thinking and agile. They are building typically SAP as we recognize the need to consider the assembly a high mix of products for quality applications and process from picking the correct parts right the way have short to medium size production runs. Working through to inspecting the final goods. together Robotas provide practical proven solutions to When investing in Robotas equipment, the short return a production process area which is traditionally difficult of investment (ROI) can clearly be measured because to manage. Manual assembly is the most common area the product yields go up instantly and rework drops off. for production errors to occur, which is why the process/ When discussing ROI with our customers, typically their industrial/quality engineers love what we do. We optimize, expectation is in terms of a three to four-year period; simplify and help control the manual assembly process. however, the ROI for a Robotas assembly line is usually Our business growth is generally organic; the results under eighteen months. that we deliver become apparent very quickly. Everyone at Robotas has an Engineering background from Sales to Software which allows our team to understand the needs of a new customer very quickly. We talk in engineering terms. We understand what the difference is between a TAKT time and a cycle time. Robotas designs, builds and writes all of its own software for its products in house. Right now, our latest innovation is the addition of component clinching to the Mascot product range. We’ve been asked by many of our aerospace and military customers that use Mascot Clinch systems to add the clinch functionality. We’ve spent the last twelve months developing and refining the precision and simplicity of this. To see the Mascot Clinch in action visit www.robotas.com/clinch So, the best kept secret in electronics is out. Robotas Technologies is a unique company in today’s market. We will deliver a complete solution to manual assembly processes. We will have a positive impact on all of your manual production process. We will increase yields, reduce errors and upskill your workforce. An Engineering team that understands your language, and your bottom line. www.robotas.com As a company we exist to improve the overall experience of people working in production environments. Our development philosophy is to always look at what the man or woman on the production line needs to do their job effectively, then to optimize that process, working in harmony with today’s smart factory platforms. This effectively upskills the workforce while providing a managed and controlled process which can be easily reported on. The ultimate goal for Robotas Technologies as a company is to deliver smart production technology to manual assembly.” Page 23

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOE Salem Technologies Practices Social Distancing with Scienscope Component Counter by Eddy Lin, CEO, Scienscope Accurate, fast, intelligent and easy-to-use: These In 2018, after countless hours of R&D by the engineering team headed are just a few words used by Salem Technologies’ by CEO Eddy Lin, the third generation AXC-800III was introduced, with Chief Financial Officer Chris Tribble to describe the which the Salem Technologies’ machine was replaced. Scienscope AXC-800III Component Counter. According to Salem Established in 1988, Salem Technologies has never stopped growing. Technologies, the feature- The company began as a small engineering consulting company and, laden AXC-800III exceeded throughout the past 32 years, it has consistently added products and all expectations, with its services to meet its customers exacting engineering demands. Salem easy-to-use software Technologies provides high-technology engineering, development, and interface, super-fast manufacturing services related to test instrumentation, inspection test accurate count times stands, and display merchandizing. In addition to specialized products and mistake-free internal used with high-volume copper and fiber optical signaling cable distribution barcode scanning. One systems, testing and instrument manufacturing, and large scale made- operator can accurately to-order systems hardware fabrication, the company provides an array of count and process a products used in the marketing and display of retail merchandise. finished project in a fraction of the time needed for Salem Technologies practices safe social distancing with Scienscope’s manual counting. Reduced AXC-800III component counter since only one operator is necessary to operator fatigue means properly run the machine. more accurate counts According to Tribble, “The keystone of our company mission is to do and fewer mistakes. The everything in our power to completely satisfy each and every one of company now can be our customers and to provide prompt professional support in the years confident that its inventory to come.” He added that employees are at the heart of the company. counts are correct when Each is top in his or her area of expertise and each stands ready to help those parts are needed customers become more successful. again. Quick counting of In 2015, Salem technologies needed an efficient and affordable way to incoming parts means there count components to improve its inventory management and entrusted will be no surprises by a Scienscope to install a first-ever prototype component counter. vendor shortage that stops During this trial-run period, Scienscope worked closely with Salem production and creates Salem Technologies relies on the AXC- Technologies, studying the way the machine was used by the operator waste. 800III for accurate inventory counts and and gathering feedback. This data was ultimately used to reach a better understanding of what Scienscope needed to do to close the gap “The AXC-800III is fewer operator errors. The system’s between the prototypes’ capabilities and the end user’s expectations. accurate and fool proof. features, combined with Scienscope’s We have tried a variety of customer service, provides Salem with different components to an excellent investment. stump it without success. Congratulations, Scienscope,” said Tribble. “With excellent customer service and a free upgrade to the latest model, it goes without saying that this system has been an excellent investment. Additionally, we feel kind of lucky to have this machine during these times of uncertainty; with only one operator to man this machine, it gives a new meaning to good social distancing on the manufacturing floor.” Scienscope was founded in 1994 to meet the growing need for reliable and affordable general-purpose optical and video inspection solutions for the electronics and PCB industries. The company began with basic stereo zoom microscopes used for SMT inspection and rework of circuit boards and electromechanical assemblies with a commitment to quality, value and support. Over the past 25 years, Scienscope has evolved to become a complete inspection solution provider, offering both offline and inline X-ray systems, video coordinate measurement systems, video inspection systems, and microscopes to meet a wide variety of applications and manufacturing quality requirements. www.salemtechnologies.com | www.scienscope.com Page 24 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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WALK THROUGH Temperature D e t e c t i o n TM1000 Never has it been more important to protect employees and businesses from the risk of virus than it is right now. The TM1000 provides the ideal solution for fever screening in every environment. The intelligent system is easy to install, incorporates intuitive software and a self-calibration routine, making it the ideal solution for every business. PROTECT EMPLOYEES AND VISITORS! LCD Display 7” Infrared Body Temperature Camera Visual & Audible Alarm Count Sensor 100% Temperature Detection at your entrance Fever Detection Automatic Alarm People Count No install required Plug and play Automatic Self Calibration E n q u i r e s t o [email protected] Page 25 CE CERTIFICATION

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOEDCAHYNRemoving chemically active solder residues from micro-gaps challenges cleaning processes and media. Flow simulation The objective of this study was to better understand of cleaning media how fluid mechanics influence the cleaning of gaps between components. To this end, external and gap in narrow gaps flow simulations were established and the results were under electronic validated by laboratory testing. The media used in the cleaning process and the role of their material properties components were considered separately in these simulations. By M.R. Meier, S. Kröll, It was found that maximising the pressure difference between the H. Schweigart, ZESTRON flow inlet and outlet of a gap was worthwhile. The pressure difference Europe, Ingolstadt and depends mainly on the flow velocity around the electronic component. K. Költzsch, Technische However, medium viscosity had little effect on the surrounding flow and Hochschule Ingolstadt therefore also had little effect on the cleaning result. The gap flow simulations showed that the viscosity of the media flowing within the gap also had little effect on the cleaning rate. The emptying of the gap depended on the interaction between the cleaner and the contaminants. This means that the chemical reactions between the cleaner and the contaminants are not merely responsible for releasing the contaminant, but they also significantly influence the removal of the released residues during the cleaning process. 1. Introduction The reliable operation of electronic components often requires cleaning processes for removing critical contaminants. Residual flux material added during the soldering process can affect current creep resistance and corrosion, and needs to be dislodged and removed from the circuit board. Surface-mounted capacitors provide unique cleaning challenges because of their protruding nature. Solder residues in dense electronic array designs can contaminate hard-to-reach micro-gaps, where friction and interface strength can critically impact cleaning behaviour [1]. The pressure difference depends mainly on the flow velocity around the electronic component. However, medium viscosity had little effect on the surrounding flow and therefore also had little effect on the cleaning result. This study aims to provide a better understanding of the role of fluid mechanics in cleaning, using capacitor arrays as examples. Capacitor arrays were chosen because they represent typical SMT components that feature particularly narrow clefts and gaps. 2. Carrying out the simulations The open-source software OpenFOAM 3.0.1 was used to create the calculation matrices and numerical solutions. This is designed to address problems of continuum mechanics and ensures that the simulation data at the interfaces of the recommended discretisation are transmitted [2]. The software tool ParaView 5.0.1 was used for evaluation. For the numerical, multi-substance simulation, a model of a 5 x 5 capacitor array was created, similar to that of a real example (Figure 1, Table 1). Page 26 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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Figure 1: Schematic of a capacitor array from the front (left) and side (right) aspects Size Dimensions of individual Dimensions of simulated Dimensions of experimental example [mm] components [mm] array [mm] b bs 12 3.2 2 dx 10 2.14 - dy - h - 1 0.3 ls 1.1 1 0.3 s 6 0.88 ~ 0.4 0.1 1.6 1.2 0.1 0.06 As illustrated in figure 2 (top), the flow detaches in front of the capacitors, rests under-pressures along the x-axis. The gaps between the front capacitors, in on the top of each component and forms a dead water area behind the last particular, have higher differential pressures in the 2D calculation, which can element of the array. Additional complexity is created by the gaps along the sometimes be negative. The effects of the channels are exacerbated by low x and y axes. While the jumps perpendicular to the incoming flow generate flow velocities. By increasing the flow velocity around the components, the vortices, the interstices form channels along the y-axis. The flow within the 3D pressure profile then approaches that of the 2D simulation. Consequently, channels has a dampening effect on the pressure distribution. Neglecting the the results from the 2D simulation in the current study can therefore be applied channel flow in the simulation of the array in the XZ plane leads to higher successfully to the 3D pressure profile. Figure 2: Behaviour of the cleaning medium when flowing around the array (top); Schematic of the flow detachments at one level (below) [3] Page 27

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featurecont. 3. Results of the simulations the surface tension this is then cleaned by the natural pressure difference. At α = 160 °, a point is reached at which the level of the pressure difference 3.1 Influence of density and viscosity on the gap flow exceeds the natural pressure difference of the gap (Figure 4 (b)). The initial At time t=0 the cleaning medium rests around the arrays and is then cleaning impulse is not reversed so that the flux can be removed in the quickly accelerated to a speed of U∞=300 mm/s . This initial cleaning flow direction. In contrast, the gap emptying with α = 120 ° takes place pulse causes the gap contents to move for a few 100 ms in the direction against the initial flow direction (Fig. 4 (a)). The cleaning rate with α = 160° of the surrounding flow. The viscosity of the flowing medium VF in Figure 3 is much higher due to the influence of the interface. (left) displays an indirectly proportional influence on the gap velocity. Here, 3.3 Influence of the flow velocity around the components the density with pR = pF = 1000 kg/m3 and the viscosity of the cleaner with The flow velocity U∞, together with geometry scaling and viscosity, 1∙10−6 m2/s are kept constant. expressed by the Reynolds number Re has the strongest influence on the To study the influence of density, the viscosity of both substances at natural pressure difference ΔP between the gap inlet and outlet. A change VF = 2∙10−6 m2/s and VR = 1∙10−6 m2/s and the density of the cleaning in the pressure difference leads to a change in the pressure coefficients medium pR at 1000 kg/m3 are kept constant and the density of the flux at the gap inlet and outlet ΔcP. It can be assumed that the value ΔcP also (pF) changes (Figure 3, right). With reducing flux density (pF), the relative depends on the viscosity of the cleaning agent and disruptions of the flow gap velocity increases. pattern, since this is decisive for vortex formation between the capacitors. 3.2 Influence of surface tension on the gap flow 3D simulations show a non-constant course of the parameter ΔcP over Surface tension not only affected the cleaning speed more than the Re in figure 5. previous parameters, but they also determined whether gap emptying The greatest changes in course occur in the gaps of the 2nd and 3rd occurs at all. The two interfaces of the exiting flux here form the contact row onwards, where even a reversal of the cleaning direction induced by angles aK to the surfaces of the capacitor and aP to the circuit board. The negative values of the pressure coefficient change is detected (Figure 5, resulting capillary pressures of the interfaces ΔPƠ,i in the gap and ΔPƠ,a right). It is assumed there that the distribution of the pressure coefficients at the outlet from the gap depend on the surface tension between the is influenced by the detachment zones and the dead water area at the cleaner and the flux, with negative pressure differences preventing the flux upper edge (Figure 2), since its resettling length XL may reach the affected from escaping the gap, positive pressure differences assisting. capacitors under certain circumstances. The variation of the wetting angle and resulting capillary pressures show 4. Results of flow experiments in the laboratory that a positive pressure difference combined with a high surface tension between the phases convey beneficial effects. For example, simulations Due to the influence of surface tension, cleaning with water at flow for wetting angles of 135 ° < α <180 ° illustrate the effect of a positive total velocities U∞ ≤ 300 mm/s is not possible. For this reason, a solvent-based differential pressure at the third gap of the array. Without the influence of cleaner was used in conjunction with a flux-like dye. The array in Table 1 Figure 3: Influence of viscosity (left) and density of the flux (right) on gap speed Figure 4: Reversal of the cleaning direction at the third gap of the array as a result of surface tension influence Page 28 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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Figure 5: Dependence of the pressure coefficient change for gap 1 (left) and gap 2 to 5 (right) on the Reynolds number was stained with dye and fixed to the edge of a beaker filled with cleaner. low surface tensions can exceed the driving pressure potential, preventing The sample was then cleaned by a circulating flow. cleaning. For a cleaning process, this means that the chemical reactions The reaction between the cleaner and the dye lowers the surface tension between cleaning agent and flux are not just responsible for the detachment to such an extent that even at a flow velocity of 240 mm/s the gap is behaviour of the flux, but they also decisively influence the removal of the completely cleaned. In Figure 6 (top) one can see an asymmetric emptying liquefied solder residues due to the behaviour of the interfaces. of the gap. The natural pressure difference is the key parameter for the surrounding The additional velocity component along the y-axis seems to dictate the flow and depends mainly on the surrounding flow velocity of the cleaning asymmetric flow. A simulation of the cleaning at an inflow angle of 45° medium. Viscosity of the cleaning medium is only responsible for minor reveals similar triangular patterns (Figure 6, bottom). The influences of changes. Nevertheless, flow restrictions can cause sudden changes in the the curved flow and the surface tension, which are neglected here, might direction and size of the pressure gradients. increase the effect. Figure 6: Recording of the cleaning experiment (top) and simulation with asymmetric cleaning (bottom). The cleaning experiments show that with simple experimental setups, The results of the computed simulations could be reproduced by simple good agreement with simulated flows can be achieved. Experimental laboratory tests. Detailed validation with more complex experimental validation of the simulation details, however, requires a more complex setups will be the subject of further investigation. experiment to ensure better comparability with the simulation. Sources 5. Summary and outlook [1] STRAUSS, Rudolph, 1998. SMT soldering handbook. 2nd ed. Oxford and others: Newnes. ISBN 978-0-7506-3589-4. Computational investigations were carried out with the aim of acquiring a [2] GREENSHIELDS, Christopher J., 2016. OpenFOAM User Guide better understanding of the influence of fluid mechanics on the cleaning of [online]. Reading: CFD Direct Ltd, 28/06/2016 [Access on: 18/10/2016]. capacitor arrays. Because of the splitting into gap and surrounding flows, http://cfd.direct/openfoam/user-guide the media used in the cleaning process and the role of material properties [3] SHERRY, M., D. LO JACONO and J. SHERIDAN, 2010. An experimental could be assessed separately. investigation of the recirculation zone formed downstream of a forward- While the change in density and viscosity had little effect on the rate of facing step. In: J. Wind Eng. & Indust. Aerodyn. 98 (12), pp. 888-894. ISSN cleaning, the success of gap emptying was related to the behaviour of the 0167-6105 interfaces. Because of the size of the gaps, even the capillary action of www.zestron.com Page 29

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INDUNSETWRYS INDUSTRYNE hot off the press base of Austin American Technology’s applications engineering team. www.aat-corp.com Austin American Technology AIM Appoints GR SYS “According to a recent analysis, the Offers Cleaning Flexibility Equipamentos Industriais as global PCB market is predicted to reach with Vertical Batch Cleaners Distributor of Full Line of around USD80 billion by 2024 – this Austin American Technology have Solder Products in Brazil presents significant opportunities for announced that its X30™ Vertical AIM Solder is pleased to announce companies but can also put pressure Format Batch Cleaning System is in the signing of GR SYS Equipamentos on production capacity,” says David stock and ready to ship. The stencil Industriais as its new distributor for its Thompson, Business Development cleaner provides maximum chemistry full line of products in Brazil. Manager at BOFA. flexibility to meet a wide variety of GR SYS Equipamentos Industriais “So when businesses are planning applications. Aqueous, saponification, provides high quality solutions, services for growth, we would advise them semi-aqueous, alcohols and hybrid and support to electronic industries to ensure that their existing fume solvents can be used to remove in Brazil. The team has more than 23 extraction systems are maintained flux residues, solder pastes, inks, years’ experience with application in optimal condition and that any adhesives and other residues from and sales support for SMT and PTH new investment in manufacturing boards, stencils, or tooling used in the processes. Offering local supply, demo includes the latest technology to production process. and training rooms, and top-notch remove airborne contaminants. In this customer service the company is way, extraction technology will help Consistent cleaning results are positioned to assist customers in this workplace environments stay safe ensured with a patented method of important region. for employees while contributing to rotational spraying that creates zones www.aimsolder.com achieving productivity goals.” of constantly changing force to provide www.grsys.com.br While the health risks associated with superior performance. X30 cleaning manual and automated soldering are systems are fully automated and do not Smart Electronics Need widely understood, there are other require product transference between Smarter Fume Extraction processes in PCB manufacture and wash, rinse and dry cycles. As global demand for Printed Circuit assembly that can also be a cause Each system incorporates filtration Boards (PCBs) accelerates, thanks to of concern. and a selectable open- or closed-loop greater automation in industry and the For example, the batch marking by laser configuration to address environmental miniaturisation of devices, electronics of PCB boards is key in traceability for and safety concerns. The cleaner’s companies are being reminded about the electronics sector, but the emissions automated, low-profile lift and compact the workplace health risks associated resulting from lasering can include solid body design facilitate easy load/ with certain production processes. particles, liquid droplets or vapours/ unload and provide one of the smallest The manufacture and assembly of PCBs gases, and can be particularly hazardous footprints in the industry. Additionally, can result in harmful emissions being to respiratory function, depending on the X30™ is supported by the released into the working environment, the substrate and laser parameters. extensive experience and knowledge so BOFA International, a global leader Another example is conformal coating, in portable fume extraction technology, which protects PCBs from ingress is urging businesses to check that their of dust and moisture. This process extraction systems remain fit for purpose is likely to involve organic chemicals during this period of rapid growth. (e.g. cyclohexane, xylene, etc.), which will give off hazardous fume and mist, but which can be properly controlled by BOFA filtration technology. Many businesses apply coatings by means of aerosol sprays which use a propane/ butane propellant, which aren’t Page 30 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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featurecont. particularly harmful, but can mask the smell of manufactures to deliver value by reducing test Insituware Appoints New Chief more harmful chemicals. times with parallel test systems that combine Scientist Said David Thompson: “BOFA solutions in-circuit test, in-system programming and Insituware LLC announces the appointment of combat all these risks through multi-stage functional test. Denis Barbini, Ph.D. as Chief Scientist. filtration technology that includes specialist www.checksum.com | www.safaricircuits.com activated carbon filters designed to capture Dr. Barbini is an experienced General Director specific chemical emissions. Introducing - The Fox Pack – State- with a demonstrated history of working in the “HEPA filters ensure a particulate filter of-the-art Expandable Placement electrical and electronic manufacturing industry. efficiency of near 100% (99.997%) is achieved, and Dispensing from Essemtec He is skilled in DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping, contributing to compliant health protection Essemtec announces that its FOX2 smart- Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), while helping deliver the productivity gains that sized modular pick-and-place technology is Quality Management, and Root Cause Analysis, come from fume and dust free process lines.” expandable in any direction. The new FOX2 and a strong sales professional with a Ph.D. In the company’s experience, manufacturers combines jetting/dispensing, 2.5D placement, focused in Chemistry, Material Science from are also embracing portable extraction electrical testing, inventory control and State University of New York at Binghamton. technology alongside, or in place of, vent-to- traceability in a single machine. “I’m very excited to be part of the Insituware air or centralised exhaust systems, to satisfy FOX2 has a machine footprint of just under 11 team,” commented Dr. Barbini. “The company the requirements of agile working practices sq. ft and can accept PCB sizes up to 16 x 12”. has created a technology that I believe will increasingly driving improved productivity. Components with sizes from 01005 up to 3.15 revolutionize the industry as we know it, and it’s www.bofainternational.com/en/your-industry/ x 3.15”can be placed. The machine achieves easy to stand behind something you believe in.” electronics/ 10,800 cph (IPC9850) at 50 µm (3 sigma) with a Take control of the materials in your facility two-nozzle head. with Insituware’s Vision MARK-1 hand-held ILS Selected for Essential Medical diagnostic tool. The Vision product family uses Manufacturing PCBA Test Project The two head version is the best seller based on machine learning technology to bring material CheckSum’s ILS test system was recently the original award-winning platform, which is the control solutions right in your hand. selected for a manufacturing project to produce first machine in its class with linear motors and The Vision product family is built to last with essential medical equipment. The project is a mineral cast frame, providing excellent speed, expandable modules called ‘Insights’ for a an undertaking by the prominent contract stability, accuracy, and making it perfectly futureproof design, continuously expanding manufacturer, Safari Circuits, Inc. located in the suited for use in very high-mix/small-medium functionality. The first Insight module will allow Midwest, United States. production environments. It has proven to be full monitoring and control of solder paste. The IPC certified manufacturer has been an excellent system for NPI and prototyping as This innovative tool will enable rapid, real-time servicing the medical industry along with well. When solder paste dispensing is added inspection, diagnostics, and process control automotive, military, and instrumentation to the system the need for screen printing and capabilities. with world-class electronics manufacturing screens can be reduced or eliminated allowing Insituware will revolutionize the way we for over 30 years. Safari Circuits reached out for board design changes and modifications to control materials! to CheckSum as one of their existing test be accomplished in real time. www.insituware.com providers to discuss the optimal system to meet The system is flexible and expandable, plus it their needs. can be configured with up to 180 feeders in a ITW EAE Extends Agreement with “We have been very happy with the performance truly compact space saving platform. Metronelec to Represent Vitronics of our CheckSum testers due to their speed of Essemtec’s FOX2 can be fitted with a Jet valve Soltec Products in France test, ease of use, and attractive pricing”, said for SMD glue or solder paste for hassle-free ITW EAE announces a new extended partnership Dave Briggs, Vice President of Engineering at manufacturing of 2.5D assemblies or lower agreement with Metronelec and W-Tech France Safari Circuits. cost micro screw valve. Fox2 also features the to represent and distribute to represent and company’s award-winning ePlace software distribute Vitronics Soltec soldering equipment Having previously purchased (2) CheckSum which is easy to use and intuitive and featured beginning April 1, 2020. This agreement is an In-Line, touchless test systems, Safari wanted on all Essemtec platforms. expansion of Metronelec’s representation of ITW the new system to be compatible to provide www.essemtec-usa.com more flexibility in their test department. Safari also owns other test equipment, but has found CheckSum delivers improved performance at a better price point. With thousands of test systems installed globally, CheckSum is relied on by major electronics Page 32 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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featurecont. EAE’s product line which already included MPM both products are also suitable for use as a Koh Young is delighted to release their latest printers, Camalot dispensers, and Electrovert protective coating for inspection windows and testimonial from Veris Manufacturing, an soldering and cleaning equipment. remaining clear, does not affect visibility. EMS focused on advanced manufacturing for “Metronelec has provided superior industries like aviation, military, medical, and representation for MPM, Camalot and Electrovert For example, we have MARQUARDT GmbH space, all with mission critical products and in France,” said Wim Schouten, Sales Manager reporting a success story: MARQUARDT exceptionally high standards. Veris is ITAR for ITW EAE. “We are very fortunate have uses KIWOMASK® S 116 HV to protect the approved, NADCAP Electronics, AS9100, and this first-class, technically experienced team conformal coating system. When conformal ISO 13485 certified, so its supplier expectations represent the full range of ITW EAE electronics protective lacquer is applied to printed circuit are strict and demanding. assembly equipment. Metronelec’s sales team boards with a spray unit, spray mist is created Veris Manufacturing chose the Koh Young Zenith is one of the best in the business and can be which would contaminate the system. In order 2 automated optical inspection (AOI) solution to counted on to serve all of our customers well.” to prevent this, the automotive supplier decided reduce false calls, improve operator confidence, “We’re very pleased to add Vitronics Soltec to to use the new KIWO resist and thus eliminate increase throughput, redeploy personnel, and our offering,” said Emmanuel Anglade, President complex cleaning work on the machine. increase data analysis capabilities. With Koh of Metronelec. “Vitronics Soltec is a pioneer Figure 3 shows how the protective film is Young, they achieved all those targets. in soldering technology with a reputation for removed under UV light. The blue areas on the cutting edge technology combined with quality film represent the areas contaminated by spray Vargha Samimi, Quality Engineering Manager manufacturing and service support. We look which - without the resist - would have ended at Veris Manufacturing said, “It’s been a great forward to adding this product line to our line of up on the system. experience. I had not worked with Koh Young high-quality products.” Another resist application is the all-over coating before, I found out that Koh Young was very Metronelec has specialized in the manufacture or partial protection of frames for conformal stable and the results were very repeatable and distribution of equipment and consumables coating applications. Regardless of which and consistent, that stood out from other for the electronics industry since 1975. In 2019 type of conformal coating lacquer is used. competitors.” Vargha added, “we have seen a they expanded their team with the acquisition KIWOMASK® S 116 HV or KIWOMASK® S 117 great increase in our throughput just by using of W-Tech. Metronolec and W-Tech will be LV only serve as a protective coating between one machine, so I can only see us having more. responsible for sales, service and spare parts the frame and the conformal coating lacquer. I’d happily recommend Koh Young to my peers.” for MPM printers, Camelot dispensers, Vitronics The frames can be cleaned in an ultrasound Watch the online version of the interview Soltec wave, reflow and selective equipment, system with warm water, for example. with Veris Manufacturing on the Koh Young plus Electrovert soldering solutions and KIWOMASK® S 116 HV and KIWOMASK® S Technology YouTube channel (https://www. cleaners, serviced from Metronelec office in 117 LV completely dissolve in water, and only youtube.com/watch?v=F3H5Wl0DoxI). Paris and W-Tech in the south of France. the conformal coating lacquer remains on the www.kohyoung.com | www.verismfg.com www.itweae.com frame and can be easily peeled or washed off (see Figure 4). The frames for conformal coating Mentor’s flagship PADS KIWOMASK® S 116 HV and KIWOMASK® remain as new, even after repeated use. Professional software for PCB S 117 LV Neither KIWOMASK® S 116 HV nor design now available for free to Newly developed KIWOMASK® S 116 HV and KIWOMASK® S 117 LV contain any materials, students and instructors KIWOMASK® S 117 LV are transparent, “liquid” which are dangerous to health. Both products As part of its ongoing investment in higher protective films for coating scratch- and dirt- do not require any form of hazard labelling. No education, Mentor, a Siemens business, today sensitive surfaces, e.g. to protect against spray aggressive cleaners are required as the resist announced that students and instructors can mist in paint booths. can be simply peeled off or removed with water. download a free student edition of its premium Both are water-based products. They only differ www.kissel-wolf.com PADS™ Professional Design Suite (version 2.7) in viscosity and are supplied ready to use for desktop software for electronics design and different methods of application. Koh Young Helps Veris analysis. A free, 12-month license for Mentor’s KIWOMASK® S 116 HV (HV = high viscosity) Manufacturing Deliver Highest flagship solution supporting the design, has a thicker consistency and is applied Quality to Mission Critical Markets validation, and manufacture of PCB-centric preferably with a paintbrush or roller on the As a contract manufacturer focused on systems is available now at https://www.pads. surface to be coated. KIWOMASK® S 117 LV delivering the highest quality products and com/downloads/pads-professional-student/. (LV = low viscosity) is thinner and supplied ready service, Veris Manufacturing would not settle for “The global electronics industry needs a to use for spray, dip or curtain coating. anything but the best inspection solution. They robust stream of qualified engineering talent to If necessary, the resists can also be diluted with found Koh Young and they have not looked de-ionised or distilled water. back since. After drying, KIWOMASK® S 116 HV and KIWOMASK® S 117 LV form a solvent-resistant, easily removable protective film that can also be washed off with water. KIWOMASK® S 116 HV and KIWOMASK® S 117 LV are suitable for providing a protective coating for glass, non-rustproof metal parts, galvanised, painted or powder-coated metals and plastic surfaces. Due to the high level of transparency, Page 34 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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featurecont. meet the innovation challenges of the world’s “It is truly a pleasure to continue our long- the ability to precisely target heat to reflow most dynamic and fast-changing markets,” standing partnership with BOSCH”, stated the component, without adversely affecting said AJ Incorvaia, senior vice president of the Chanwha Pak, CEO of MIRTEC Co LTD. “We adjacent components. To meet these Electronic Board Systems division at Mentor, at MIRTEC are committed to continuous challenges, PACE Worldwide announces the a Siemens business. “We are pleased to improvement through innovation and strong MT-200 MiniTweez®, a new thermal tweezer provide this premium platform at no cost for quality leadership. Ours is a business of designed to quickly and safely rework tightly students looking for hands-on experience using precision and accuracy, reproducibility and spaced micro-components such as 0201s, professional, cutting-edge tools that are in specificity, timeliness and trust. These are the 0402s and 0603s in a simple, one-handed demand by employers.” real products and services which we provide operation. As perfectly aligned tips are critical PADS Professional delivers the industry’s only to our valued customers”, continued Pak. “We for success, the MT-200 features multi-axis tip fully-integrated design and analysis solution look forward to our continued partnership and alignment capability. A Tip-Gap Adjustment that combines capture, layout, signal integrity the mutual success of our two organizations.” Wheel allows the operator to match the gap analysis, and 3D into one tool. The platform is With over 17,000 systems installed throughout between the tips to the work thus reducing grip powered by Xpedition™ software technology – the World and having received a total of 41 stress and operator fatigue, particularly during the same design tool used by many of the world’s Industry Awards thus far for their products and repetitive operations. In addition, the MT-200 most successful technology organizations. services, MIRTEC has earned a solid reputation can also provide safe, rapid removal of much “I have experience using several PCB design as one of the most Progressive and Dynamic larger chips and components such as SOTs, tools, but my proficiency in using Mentor’s Suppliers of Automated Optical Inspection D-PAKs, SOICs and TSOPs. PADS Professional platform has proven to be Equipment to the Electronics Manufacturing of interest to prospective employers,” said Industry. MIRTEC products have been extremely Designed exclusively for PACE’s AccuDrive® Joshua Biggio, May-2019 BSEE graduate of successful in High-Volume markets such as power sources, the MT-200 uses patented, University of Colorado. “My ability to jump right consumer electronics as well as High-Mix Low- higher-powered Blue-Series Tip-Heater into new projects played a key role in helping Volume markets such as medical, automotive, Cartridges that can be changed within seconds me to secure a position at a Tier One global aerospace and defense. The company and heat up instantly yet are only half the cost semiconductor company.” invests heavily in Research and Development, of competitive tweezer cartridges. The MT- PADS Professional Student Edition includes persistently focused on using state-of-the- 200 is available as a complete station with several “Getting Started” resources that help art optics, lighting and laser technology in the ADS200 AccuDrive® Power Supply and Instant students traverse the learning curve quickly, development of their inspection solutions. SetBack Tool Stand, which automatically including learning tutorials, how-to videos, and “It is quite an honor for MIRTEC to be awarded reduces tip temperature to increase tip life, or self-paced training. this contract,” stated Holger Hansmann, as a handpiece/cubby kit for use with existing www.mentor.com Director of Sales and Marketing, at MIRTEC ADS200 Soldering Stations. Europe. “As a premier manufacturer, BOSCH is www.paceworldwide.com/mt- BOSCH SELECTS MIRTEC AS STRATEGIC recognized throughout the world for having the 200-minitweez-thermal-tweezer 3D AOI PARTNER FOR CONTINUOUS highest quality standards. As such, the company QUALITY IMPROVEMENT is extremely selective in purchasing equipment COVID – 19 EMERGENCY SMT MIRTEC is pleased to announce that after an that will add value to their business. In MIRTEC PRODUCTION LINE SUPPORTING KENYA extensive evaluation BOSCH has selected they have found a partner that offers the most MEDICAL PRODUCT MANUFACTURING MIRTEC’s 3D AOI Technology as the best Technologically Advanced Inspection Systems, Robert Conway, Chairman of Parable Trust & solution to meet their ongoing quality initiatives. supported by a truly Global infrastructure and Blakell Europlacer Group, Dr Kamau Gachigi, The evaluation process was exceedingly excellent company procedures. We at MIRTEC Executive Director of Gearbox, Kenya and Neil detailed and included a wide range of 3D AOI are proud to have been selected, yet again, as Sandy, CEO of Wellers Impact & Weller Law solution providers from around the Globe. In the BOSCH’s 3D AOI partner.” Group are delighted to announce a collaboration the end, MIRTEC effectively demonstrated www.mirtec.com | www.bosch.com resulting in essential medical manufacturing the lowest cost of ownership and absolute technology being sent to Nairobi, Kenya to help best overall cost/performance ratio of any PACE Introduces MT-200 combat the Covid-19 pandemic. competitive 3D AOI system. MiniTweez® Thermal Tweezer “It is truly a pleasure to continue our long- for Precision Micro-Component standing partnership with BOSCH”, stated Rework Chanwha Pak, CEO of MIRTEC Co LTD. “We Electronic components continue to miniaturize at MIRTEC are committed to continuous while board densities increase, resulting in improvement through innovation and strong significant rework challenges. This demands quality leadership. Ours is a business of precision and accuracy, reproducibility and specificity, timeliness and trust. These are the real products and services which we provide to our valued customers”, continued Pak. “We look forward to our continued partnership and the mutual success of our two organizations.” Page 36 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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featurecont. • Parable Trust Limited a UK ‘not for profit’ during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. New, integrated solution for company with the support of Wellers Impact PVA has more than 25 years of automation efficient use of nitrogen with the Limited, a FCA regulated UK based Impact experience working with electronic components CoolFlow option Investment Manager with offices and and currently is supplying solutions being utilized The VisionXP+ convection soldering investments in Kenya has agreed to provide an to manufacture COVID-19 test kits, portable system from Rehm Thermal Systems emergency SMT (Surface Mount Technology) respirators, and mechanical ventilators. features different types of cooling production line to support Gearbox a Kenyan The emergency ventilator design uses functionality For an optimal reflow soldering result, not only ‘not for profit’ company manufacturing PCBs that has been recently approved by the United is melting of the solder important but also as (Printed Circuit Boards) for assembly into new Kingdom Department of Health & Science. PVA a stable and reliable cooling process. This medical products that are urgently required in has an operational prototype running in their soldering process can be designed flexibly with response to COVID-19, including Ventilators, Cohoes, NY headquarters and is prepared to the VisionXP+ convection soldering system Oxygen Concentrators, Pulse Oximeters move forward with high-volume manufacturing. from Rehm Thermal Systems. With Rehm and Automated (contactless) hand-washing CoolFlow, Rehm offers an innovative and equipment. Since yesterday, PVA has presented the integrated cooling principle using liquid nitrogen ventilator to the New York State Governor’s – there is also a standard cooling option with up • The SMT equipment has been manufactured Office, Congressman Paul Tonko’s Office (NY- to four cooling modules, an extended cooling in the UK & France by Parable Trust’s 20), and the Office of the United States Vice- line, underside cooling and an energy-saving 100% owned subsidiary Blakell Europlacer President. PVA has committed all resources to cooling variant. (‘Europlacer’). Europlacer is the Global Leading New York State initially and will allocate capacity Along with their partner Air Liquide, Rehm has Flexible SMT Pick & Place Equipment Company to additional institutions as requested. developed a cooling system (“Rehm CoolFlow”), recognised by Frost & Sullivan (Independent PVA can produce ventilators for under $8K and which deploys the nitrogen used for inertia even Industry Analyst) for 5 years in a row. Robert has plans to ramp production to a minimum of more efficiently. The –180 °C cold liquid nitrogen Conway, Chairman says “We welcome the 100 ventilators per day. Units can be delivered releases its energy in the cooling line, then opportunity to partner with Gearbox & Wellers within two weeks if regulatory approval does not evaporates and can then be used in its gaseous Impact in response to this COVID crisis by flying delay shipments. state for inerting the process atmosphere. The out our SMT equipment manufactured in UK & PVA has joined the race to provide critical cooling water, which previously required high France to assist in the production of emergency medical equipment that has seen medical energy use for cooling, including cooling unit and medical devices in Kenya.” companies teaming with automotive suppliers. refrigerant, is completely eliminated. The entire “It’s sexy to think that Ford, GM, and Tesla are nitrogen path – from the main valve, through • The equipment is being air freighted to Kenya going to make your ventilators,” states PVA the volume flow control and the safety sensors, to create the first SMT production line in Sub- President and CEO Tony Hynes. “They are to the passively controlled gaseous nitrogen Sahara Africa outside South Africa. moving quickly and doing great work. They supply – is now fitted in the plant housing. This have tremendous resources, but you can’t just means that all fittings are spatially integrated • Wellers Impact and the Wellers Law Group convert that type of operation in days. We have into the plant. Only a hose for gaseous nitrogen LLP, a London and South East based law the ability to provide our emergency ventilators and a vacuum-insulated line for liquid nitrogen firm are co-ordinating and overseeing this much faster.” feed into the system from the outside. With the important initiative. Neil Sandy, CEO of “Every day when we listen to Governor Cuomo’s exception of hood coolers and the non-split Wellers says “providing practical help at this press briefing his greatest need is for ventilators. cooling line, Rehm CoolFlow can be combined time is paramount, if Covid takes hold in East The Governor asked New York State businesses with all other options. Africa it will be devastating. Everyone involved to step up and get creative to relieve the critical in this initiative wants to see Kenya and the shortages of medical devices. This is PVA’s Cooling is controlled using the software by East African region get ahead in their planning answer to the call. We are ready to assist in any specifying the frequencies and volume flow and preparedness and put in place long-term way possible to help our friends and neighbors rate as required: If the cooling line temperatures sustainable solutions. People’s health and that in the State of New York and wherever our are too high, the operator increases the volume of the Kenyan economy is paramount.” expertise may be needed.” flow of liquid nitrogen through the coolers. www.pva.net Everything else is controlled by the system www.parabletrust.com itself: An excess of nitrogen from the coolers www.europlacer.com is fed into the exhaust air to compensate for a www.gearbox.co.ke shortfall from the gas network. Furthermore, the www.wellersimpact.com Rehm CoolFlow option has features that enable safe working. For instance, the supply of liquid PVA Manufactures COVID-19 nitrogen is automatically and safely stopped in Emergency Ventilator PVA has rapidly manufactured an emergency ventilator to help combat supply shortages Page 38 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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DESIGN & BUILD. IT’S WHAT WE DO. IOT, Smart Lighting Whizz Systems, is a premier provider of electron- www.whizzsystems.com ics product design, development, and manufacturing services located in the heart of the Silicon Valley. We North America - Corporate Headquarters provide our customers an efficient path to launching a 3240 Scott Blvd product by taking an idea and turning that into a work- Santa Clara, CA. 95054 able, shippable product. Our services are unique in that PH: +1(408) 980 0400 we manage the entire process of a product starting with development and design all the way to prototypes and Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP) final manufacturing. Whizz Systems complies with the Malaysia Lot 8 highest standards of technology including the following SMI Park Phase 2 Jalan Hi-Tech 4 Sambungan certifications: ISO 9001, ISO 13485, and ISO 14001. Kulim Hi-Tech Park 09000 Kulim, KEDAH Malaysia Whizz Systems is a proud member of the XILINX Alliance PrograPmage 39

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featurecont. case of a malfunction. Such measures address TRI Introduces New 3D AOI for the gripping means for many applications These the challenges posed by nitrogen management. Semiconductor Industry tools are portable and eliminate the need for In addition to the innovative CoolFlow solution, Test Research, Inc. (TRI), the leading test vacuum hoses or power cords. In addition to Rehm Thermal Systems offers flexible standard and inspection systems provider for the the hand tools, Virtual Industries offers a broad cooling concepts for VisionXP+. These include: electronics manufacturing industry, is pleased line of accessories including miniature rubber Standard cooling lines with up to four cooling to announce the release of the high-resolution vacuum cups, PEEK wafer handling tips and modules TR7700QE-S 3D AOI for the Semiconductor precision machined handling tips for critical The standard cooling system consists of up to and Packaging Industry. handling operations. four individual cooling modules. These allow a precisely controlled cooling process as well as individual adjustment of the cooling gradient. The “closed loop principle” guarantees a closed atmosphere cycle. The standard cooling line consists of an active and a passive cooling module. The active cooling modules are supplied via an external water connection, using a heat exchanger. The coolers can be easily removed and cleaned at the rear of the system. The process chamber does not need to be opened to do this. Flexible cooling with extended cooling line As the miniaturization of components and PCB The ADJUST-A-VAC® ESD Safe Kit With ESD- For gentle cooling, an extended cooling line boards increases, also does the demand for Safe Delrin Small Parts Tips and ESD-Safe can be connected to the VisionXP+. This can higher resolution inspection. The TR7700QE-S Vacuum Tips (AV-6000-SP8-BD-110) was be implemented as an extension to standard provides high accuracy and repeatability for developed as a result of customer concerns cooling zones under a nitrogen atmosphere or the semiconductor & packaging industry. TRI about manual handling of very thin/delicate as a separate, downstream module in an air inspection platforms have robust metrology substrates, wafers, MEMS devices and other atmosphere for higher cooling performance for capabilities that enable high accuracy and very fragile components. This vacuum-tweezer insensitive materials. Further advantages of the reliability inspection, lowering the false calls rates. allows the operator to adjust the vacuum level air-cooled variant: while nitrogen is needed in The TR7700QE-S is built on a high precision from just below atmospheric pressure to up to the process section of the convection unit to platform with 5.5 µm high resolution 12 MP 10” of mercury depending on the fragility of the prevent oxidation, the extended cooling line imaging technology for the Semiconductor & part being handled. no longer needs to be flooded with nitrogen, Packaging industry. Powered by Metrology An integrated ten segment bar-graph-display resulting in nitrogen savings. precision and flexible inspection algorithms, the visibly shows the vacuum level present during Underside cooling for uniform cooling from TR7700QE-S can inspect and detect defects in handling operations. The bar graph will show above and below wire bonds, die bonds, SMD, bumps, Wafer IC/ minimum vacuum pressure until a part is grasped For particularly massive or large assemblies or Chip, underfill, and solder joints. and then the bar graph displays the vacuum boards with product carriers, the VisionXP + can TRI’s Smart Factory Solutions allow operators to level presented to the part being handled. also be equipped with underside cooling. The aggregate information from individual systems Additionally, the vacuum port integrates a user actual cooling process is identical to that of the for statistical analysis of production line defect replaceable inlet filter that protects operation standard cooling line, but the extracted, cleaned rates, reviewing and fine-tuning inspection of the tool from dust particles. This Vacuum and cooled air flows not only from above onto results, and identifying component defect Tweezer is available in various kits depending the module, but also from below. trends and emerging production issues. on your handling application. Kits are available Gradual cooling for energy saving www.tri.com.tw/en/product/ in 110 or 220 volt operation. Rehm also offers an energy-saving cooling product_detail-11-2-1576-1.html This ESD safe kit features: variant for the VisionXP+ convection soldering • Five vacuum tip holders on top of tool. system: The air is extracted not only at one point Virtual Industries’ 220 V AC ADJUST- • Bar graph power-on and vacuum-level but at two points. This results in a smoother A-VAC® ESD-Safe Kit With Foot cooling gradient and offers significant energy Switch, ESD-Safe Delrin Small indicator. saving potential. Parts Tips • Adjustment knob for vacuum level .F www.rehm-group.com Virtual Industries Inc. features a product line • Rubber no-skid feet. of hand tools that replace tweezers or other • ESD ground connection is by three wire power cord. • Produces vacuum of up to ten inches of mercury. • Replaceable inlet filter. • Side mounted handle holder. This kit includes: • Coiled-vacuum-hose-5 (VCH-2.5mm-5 black) Page 40 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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featurecont. • Push-button-vacuum-pen (VVP-200-2.5mm) “We are looking back on a 20-year-old business Mark Clemons Joins VJ Electronix • Foot switch with vacuum pen without control relationship. When a business relationship lasts as General Manager this long, it is based on core values such as trust, hole (VFS-1) openness, reliability and loyalty. We have found VJ Electronix, Inc. is pleased to announce • Vacuum-cup-kit-9 (VCS-9-B) all these qualities in this partnership and have the appointment of Mark Clemons to • ESD-Safe Delrin small parts tips (VSPT-TIPS- gone through many successful years together, General Manager. along with some more difficult ones. This in itself Don Naugler has stepped down as GM and 8-BD) is extraordinary and our mutual customers have taken on the role of Director of Technology. • 16 Position tip organizer/holder (VTH-16). also noticed this. Reinhard Pollak’s honest and Over the course of his 16 years as steward of • 3 wire power cord customer-focused approach, combined with the the company, VJE has seen tremendous growth www.virtual-ii.com high level of technical expertise and many years and success. of experience, has always been highly valued Clemons joins VJ Electronix with 30 years of Change of Staff in Viscom Sales: by our customers,” says Torsten Pelzer, general technical and leadership experience in the Thomas Winkel Takes Over From sales manager of Viscom AG, as he looks back. Electronics industry including 11 years at ITW’s Reinhard Pollak Electronics Assembly Equipment (EAE) division In the year 2000, a long and fruitful business as Business Unit Manager for the Printer group relationship began: Viscom AG and Repotech under the Speedline and MPM brands. He holds GmbH commenced joint sales activities in a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the southern Germany, Switzerland and parts of University of Massachusetts and an MBA from Austria. After 20 years of this successful working Worcester Polytechnic Institute. partnership, Repotech founder Reinhard Pollak As GM, Clemons is responsible for oversight is now taking his well-earned retirement and of all aspects of the business, from sales and handing over the reins to Thomas Winkel. marketing to shipping and receiving, and everything in between. www.vjelectronix.com Reinhard Pollak founded Repotech GmbH at After Reinhard Pollak retires from active sales, VIGON® N 600 – established on the Lake Constance in 1994, offering production Thomas Winkel will take over the sales activities market for more than ten years facilities for preparing and testing electronic and customer service. Viscom is very pleased The cleaning agent VIGON® N 600 removes assemblies. Over the years, more than a to have found an equally effective and reliable a broad range of flux residues from electronic hundred companies have used Repotech’s successor in Thomas Winkel, and to be able assemblies and has, due to its pH neutrality, services, and still use machines or production to continue this customer service tradition at a very good compatibility with sensitive lines that were selected and configured with the the same superior level. Thomas Winkel looks components, especially metals like aluminium, benefit of the company’s expertise. Repotech back on more than 20 years of professional brass, nickel and polymers. It can be used in GmbH kept to a small and select group of experience in image processing, having advised both batch and inline systems to clean standard specialists in electronics production equipment, customers from the automotive supply industry and low-standoff components and shows who represented the company in its sales worldwide. “My goal is to provide our customers good cleaning results even at low application region. This ensured that customers received and other stakeholders with the same level of concentrations. top quality advice at all times. Reinhard Pollak’s intensive and solution-focused advice and customers ranged from small and medium- support as they have become used to from Since its launch as the first pH neutral cleaning sized enterprises to multinational corporations. Reinhard Pollak,” says Winkel. Viscom AG agent worldwide within this application area, the In 2016, Repotech focused exclusively on its wishes Reinhard Pollak all the best for his well- MPC® (Micro Phase Cleaning) cleaning agent partnership with Viscom to guarantee sufficient deserved retirement and would like to thank has been qualified by numerous international technical consulting for customer-specific him for his many years of success and loyalty. customers in the defence, telecommunications, configurable inspection solutions. Viscom also welcomes Thomas Winkel and aerospace and automotive industries. wishes him well in his new duties. www.zestron.com www.viscom.com Page 42 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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SELECTIVE SOLDERING ORISSA FUSION High speed, in-line, multi-platform selective soldering system FEATURES: Available in 2, 3 and 4 station configurations Up to 457mm x 1115mm PCB handling capability* DC servo drives with encoders on X, Y and Z axis Solder wave height measurement and correction Automatic solder wire feed and level detect Process viewing camera(s) *Configuration dependent OPTIONS: Ultrasonic fluxing Top-side and bottom-side instant IR preheat Laser PCB warp correction 1.5mm micro nozzle Large board handling ORISSA SYNCHRODEX Flexible, in-line, modular selective soldering system FEATURES: In-line motor driven auto conveyor width adjust Conveyor side clamping Auto solder wire feed and level detect Heated inerted Nitrogen system Drop-Jet fluxer Solder wave height measurement and correction system Fiducial recognition and correction system Flux level sensor PillarPAD offline programming system Process viewing camera with record feature Lead-free capability OPTIONS: Ultrasonic fluxing Dual Drop-Jet / ultrasonic fluxing Top-side instant IR preheat Closed loop pyrometer temperature control Laser PCB warp correction JADE MK II JADE MK IV JADE PRO SYNC PRO Entry-level single point Large board single point Ultra flexible, offline, Enhanced flexible, in-line, selective soldering system selective soldering system multi-platform selective modular selective soldering system soldering system Page 43

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOEDCAHFounded in 2009, Critical Manufacturing is a young, agile, customer-centric company providing leading- A Look into Critical edge, Industry 4.0-ready software solutions for advanced Manufacturing manufacturing industry segments. The company is dedicated to empowering manufacturers of complex, an interview with David high-tech discrete products with a manufacturing Trail Jr., Vice President of execution and intelligence system to achieve their digital Sales, SMT and Electronics, transformation goals. We recently spoke with David Trail Jr., Vice President of Sales, SMT and Electronics, to critical manufacturing find out more about the company and how it is moving forward during these uncertain times. Q. Critical Manufacturing has been a successful software solutions company for more than a decade. What sets you apart from your competition? A. First of all, Critical Manufacturing is an amazing company to work with and for. We have nearly 250 employees and the vast majority are some of the most talented software engineers I have ever met. Led by a visionary Management team with a strong sense of the future of MES and manufacturing, Critical has redefined the capabilities and expectations of what a manufacturing software solution is and should be. This vision and the strong support of our talented team has been rewarded with some of the most robust growth seen within our space. Over this past decade we have seen robust revenue growth year over year since our inception. We have been hiring at a record pace, and our customer base has grown exponentially. A large part of this is due to the fact that our solution is well known as the most modern, flexible and configurable manufacturing execution system (MES) available. Q. For those unfamiliar with your technologies, can you provide a brief overview of Critical Manufacturing’s manufacturing execution system (MES)? Is the software solution Industry-4.0 ready? A. I often explain to others that the term “Industry 4.0” is present in both our Vision and Mission statements and has been core to our company even before the term and philosophy became part of the “mainstream” conversation within manufacturing. Our MES solution and revolutionary technologies help manufacturers stay ahead of stringent product traceability and compliance requirements; reduce risk with inherent closed-loop quality; integrate seamlessly with enterprise systems and factory automation and provide deep intelligence and visibility of global production operations. As a result, customers are Industry 4.0 ready. They can compete effectively and profitably by easily adapting their operations to changes in demand, opportunity or requirements, anywhere, at any time. Read our White Paper: The New MES: Backbone of Industry 4.0 https://criticalmanufacturing.com/en/resources/documents/ white-paper-the-new-mes-backbone-of-industry-4-0 Critical Manufacturing is an amazing company to work with and for. We have nearly 250 employees and the vast majority are some of the most talented software engineers I have ever met. Q. Is Mexico a successful market for Critical Manufacturing? Why or why not? A. As one of the most important manufacturing regions within North America (and the world), Mexico is and has been part of our focus for many years. This is especially true given the manufacturing and supply chain shifts that we have been seeing in many of our key sectors and industries recently. As more and more companies begin to evaluate and commence “reshoring” of their manufacturing operations, Mexico is a logical location. The stability in the region and political climate has vastly improved over the past decade and many of the past concerns have been eliminated. Because of these factors we have partnered with SMarTsol who, is a leading Manufacturing Representative organization in the region. Read our Press Release: Critical Manufacturing Appoints SMarTsol Technologies in Mexico https://criticalmanufacturing.com/en/ newsroom/press-releases/posts/press-releases/critical-manufacturing- appoints-smartsol-technologies-in-mexico#.XqM0WmhKg2w Page 44 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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Led by a visionary Management Q. Do you think the pandemic will change the way team with a strong sense we do business moving forward? How so? How will of the future of MES and Critical Manufacturing adapt? manufacturing, Critical has A. Most of us have never seen a situation like this within redefined the capabilities our lifetimes. The devastating disruption of “business and expectations of what as usual” has resulted in many unique adaptations and a manufacturing software caused many of us to rethink the way we go about solution is and should be. both our personal and business lives. The ways we go about creating and maintaining relationships with Q. We’ve seen in the news that Critical Manufacturing customers, associates, and coworkers have had to has increased its rep base significantly in 2020 evolve in a very short amount of time. Fortunately, our for the Electronics and SMT Industry. What is the business model is rather friendly to remote technologies reasoning behind this? and the use of Microsoft Teams, GoToMeeting, and A. In the early 90s, I started my career in this industry as Skype type technologies has been very beneficial as a Manufacturer’s Rep, and I am a big proponent of the we interact with our customers, prospects, employees, strategy of using Reps in key territories. The depth of the and partners. Over the past month or so, we have gone relationships these reps have with their customer base is to a 100% work from home model and have not only something that would be very difficult to develop with a been able to grow revenues at record levels, we have “direct” sales force. Since we have partnered with some been able to maintain the unique and tight-knit culture of the best reps in North America who have extremely within our company. Most importantly, we have been strong line cards, the exposure to key individuals within very successful at keeping our current implementation our target customer base is vastly enhanced. projects going to plan, with much of the work being done by the services and engineering teams remotely. Find a Critical Manufacturing Partner https:// This is the direct result of providing the most modern criticalmanufacturing.com/en/company/partners/find-a- MES platform available with a unique implementation partner. methodology. Q. Has Critical Manufacturing been deemed an essential company by the government? If so, what For more information, read our blog: A Quick Guide to role has Critical Manufacturing played in helping to Remote Implementation: Keep MES Projects Going in stop the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic? the Midst of a Crisis https://blog.criticalmanufacturing. A. Interestingly, while many companies and industries com/a-quick-guide-to-remote-implementation-keep- have seen devastating effects due to the current global mes-projects-going-in-the-midst-of-a-crisis/ crisis, Critical Manufacturing has been extremely Q. What can we expect on the horizon from Critical busy over the past few months because we provide Manufacturing? important capabilities to help manufacturers better A. Critical Manufacturing has always been about respond to changes in demand. The industries we innovation. Since we began, we have reinvented the serve such as Electronics Assembly, Semiconductor capabilities, expectations, and definition of what a and Medical Device have all had critical parts to play in MES should do, can do, and what the technology helping government and front-line agencies respond to means to manufacturers around the world in many the current crisis by efficiently ramping up production different industries. We are pushing the limits of of critical components and medical supplies to treat existing technologies and have been inventing and patients. Our Medical Device customers are some of the envisioning new methods of managing data, creating most recognized names in the industry and are on the an environment conducive to Artificial Intelligence and front lines in supplying the products currently saving lives. Machine Learning, and reimagining everything from life on the manufacturing floor to the utilization of advanced data analytics for operating a successful manufacturing corporation in the 21st century. There are many exciting projects and technologies on the horizon, and we are looking to sharing them with the industry. www.criticalmanufacturing.com Page 45

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOEDCAHMetallization of 3D surfaces is a growing field with diverse applications. In this article, we briefly discuss some Routes to 3D techniques and applications thereof. More specifically, Electronics: we discuss and critically benchmark laser direct Assessment of structuring (LDS), aerosol, 3D printed electronics (3DPE), Technologies and two-shot molding, and In-Mold Electronics (IME). Applications This article is based on “In-Mold Electronics 2020-2030: Technology, by DR KHASHA GHAFFARZADEH, Market Forecasts, Players” which offers a detailed assessment of RESEARCH DIRECTOR, IDTECHEX various techniques to obtain 3D-shaped circuits with a special focus on IME. This report offers technical assessment of manufacturing processes and material requirements, market outlook for applications and players, and a study of competitive routes to 3D electronics What drives these trends? Interconnects are often created in printed circuit boards (PCB). These PCBs can be made on flexible substrates, mainly PI, enabling the realization of thin, flexible, multilayer circuits. PI has a relatively high processing temperature which means that it is compatible with standard reflow processes. As such, the assembly process is similar to that found on common PCBs, e.g., FR4 based rigid PCBs. Furthermore, multilayer circuits can be achieved. As such, complex high-density circuits supporting all manners of IC packages can be realized. These flexible circuits can be fitted into tight areas and/or around non-flat surfaces. However, they are neither very flexible nor truly conformable. As such, they limit design freedom. Furthermore, they take additional space and will require extra assembly steps. Consequently, there is a need to create interconnects on arbitrary-shaped 3D objects to overcome these shortcomings. These techniques have enabled many applications ranging from antennas to wearable devices to automotive and white goods parts. Approaches: no one-sizes-fits-all LDS (laser direct structuring) LDS or laser direct structuring is, by now, a well-established technology. Here, a laser scans a pattern on a special plastic substrate which contains embedded conductive metal or metal oxide additives. The scan rate is typically around 4m/s whilst the typical linewidth is 150- 200um although a focused laser can be implemented to achieve much narrower linewidths, e.g., 60um or so. The laser removes the surface in the scanned areas, exposing conductive parts which are then Cu plated and thus metallized. The change of design is digital and thus requires no additional tool. The process has some shortcomings, namely that (a) the object volume is restricted (typical work volume is around 400x70x80 mm3), (b) it works on already metallized surfaces, (c) it requires special polymers, (d) the pick-and-place, where needed, and the associated adhesive dispensing will need to take place on 3D objects, (e) the production step up can occupy a relatively large real estate due to the plating equipment, and (f) the lines may not be sufficiently thick to support power (vs signal) functions (note: lines are typically Nonetheless, this technology already had success, especially in mobile phone antennas. These antennas were directly deposited on the plastic part, enabling 3D design and eliminating the extra FPCB. The challenge is that the antenna designs in phones are evolving, especially for 5G mobiles, likely forcing this technology out. Furthermore, this technology failed to break into other markets in a serious way. Of course, many applications were demonstrated and multiple are manufactured in relatively small volumes. But none is large enough to compensate for the competitive pressures present in the antenna business. The equipment supply market had, in particular, been in freefall given that there was sufficient installed capacity to service the existing and short-term foreseeable demand and given that suppliers had increased despite the original developers seeking to enforce their claimed IP rights. Aerosol Aerosol deposition was a direct competitor to LDS. It too offers a way to metallize already 3D-shaped objects. It, too, allows digital control of the pattern, thus enabling rapid turnarounds and viability even for small production runs. The built volume here is, like LDS, small. Page 46 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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The process is different from LDS. Here, a high velocity To achieve this, the electronic components must be jet of particle mists is formed and directed at the object mounted on or within the 3D object. If they are to be for metallization. This high-velocity jet, e.g., >50m/s, mounted on the outer surface, then the pick-and-place remains highly collimated, giving rise to narrow linewidth and assembly can take place after the completion of 3D capability, e.g., 10-20 um for laboratory machines. The printing. If they are to be placed within the object, then machine thus consists of one or multiple aerosol jet the two processes must be coupled, and the assembly heads, which are maneuvered in 3D space using robotic must take place as part of the 3D printing process. arms, and curing unit(s). Therefore, the process has a In all cases, the components will require interconnections. very small physical footprint. This would be for signal as well as power transmission. The mist is composed of particles, mainly nano-sized Ag To get the best out of the possibilities offered by 3D particles, e.g., 50-150nm or so in diameter. These inks printing, these interconnections would need to be will need to exhibit high particle size monodispersity or embedded inside the structure (not just the outer else they will create a gradient in the jet, resulting in non- surface) and would need to cover a 3D space (not just uniformity. Furthermore, the inks will need to show good metallizing a 2D plane within the 3D object). adhesion across a range of common plastic substrates, Achieving this opens many new product design e.g., PC or PC/ABS blends. They will also need to possibilities. It will have a low production speed achieve high conductivity at increasingly low curing however it can offer excellent design and product temperatures. A rate-limiting step will be the curing time, customization opportunities. Multiple companies and thus rapid cure formulations are desirable. Despite this, entities are pursuing various strategies to enable this. it is claimed that the TACT is shorter than LDS. Since the In particular, some are trying to streamline the software conductive traces are formed out of inks they are not as design process and to create a library of plug-and-play conductive as plated copper. compatible electronic parts. Finally, note that some are This technology also found success in antenna using conductive plastics as the 3D printing feedstock. production. The installed base is around 16-18 These additive-loaded filaments however have sufficient production-level machines or so. Some of the early conductivity for applications such as electrostatic generations of products however reached their end of discharge, and are unlikely to be good enough for circuity. Tech Volume Substrate Production site Ease if Power Share Circuit complexity limitation footprint designing capability complexity parts IME Height. Needs to be Medium Low (needs Limited by Medium (some Low (single layered, low 50k-100k formable so PC (printing, specialized conductive inks will still not density and wide tracks) minimum. and formable curing, forming, knowledge. ink resistivity survive very Capable of PET cutting molding This will change (<12V*150mA) sharp turns) higher numbers & mounting with time & easily machines) standardization) MID Medium. High (need Large (plating Medium (higher Medium to high Medium to high Medium (relatively Limited by laser special bath needed. experience) (plated lines are (depends on low density and wide throughput + laser-tolerate We are good-1A) laser ability to tracks, but in some plating time substrate with comparing just properly expose cases double-sided via- embedded metallization complex connect boards might conductive step) shapes) possible particles) 3DP Low. Limited Medium (so Small (printer High (provided Low (unless High Low (in particular it is (layer by layer long as it plus curing unit) the software is a robust not easy to achieve growth) withstands heat developed) metallization within-structure 3D or light curing process is metallization) conditions) developed) Aerosol Medium (unless Adhesion? Small (jet High (digitally Medium to low Medium to high Medium (single layered many parallel Temperature plus curing controlled) since limited by (depends on but track widths can arms operate) curing machine*) Ag nanoparticle laser ability to be narrow if jet is will requirements of inks properly expose collimated) inks? complex shapes) Source: IDTechEx Research - “In-Mold Electronics 2020-2030: Technology, Market Forecasts, Players” life. It remains to be seen whether there can be new Two-Shot Molding waves of antenna or similar applications opportunities for aerosol in the coming years. This will be the challenge Another technique is two-shot molding. Here, two resin that defines the future of aerosol 3D metallization. types are employed with one containing conductive 3D Printed Electronics catalyst (Fe or more commonly Pd) and the other being catalyst-free. The two parts are molded over each other 3D printing is a major market already. It is used in prototyping such as only the to-be-plated parts of the catalyst- and increasingly also in production. The materials menu containing resin are exposed. The 3D-shaped molded covers plastics, metals as well as ceramics. part is then put through roughening, cleaning, plating, and finishing to create the final 3D-shaped metallized The plastic 3D printed objects often only fulfil a part. There are applications for this including some mechanical role. As such, we can consider them ‘dumb’ insulin pumps. structures. Therefore, the ability to integrate electronics into the 3D object would enable designers to 3D print In-Mold Electronics ‘intelligent’ objects. In-Mold Electronics (IME) is another route to create 3D-shaped metallized parts eliminating the use of Page 47

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featurecont. additional PCBs. Here, the functional and graphic inks guides to spread light. Furthermore, process know-how are printed on one or two flat films, e.g., PC, and the development is absolutely vital. rigid ICs pick-and-placed. This flat functional sheet can This technology also has some challenges, all which then be 3D formed before being injection molded. represent material innovation and process optimization This technology, which in some ways is an evolution of opportunities: (a) reliability needs to be very high as the in-mold decoration, is indeed very well-differentiated embedded nature of the electronics eliminates post- from those outlined above. The production rate and deployment repair opportunities, (b) the conductive lines the product sizes can be higher and larger here, are signal carrying given their low-conductivity, (c) the respectively. The pick-and-place can occur on 2D design is not straightforward given that many material surfaces, easing and speeding up the process. The and process materials must be considered and thus still process can therefore be more productive, leading to represents an art, (d) the production has a steep learning lower per unit costs. As such, this technology can target curve and there is little modularization yet. very different markets. Furthermore, the electronics are Nonetheless, this technology is, in our assessment, on truly structurally integrated, meaning that the aesthetic the path to success, despite some previous setbacks, and outer graphics of the part can be preserved. e.g., Ford product recall. We forecast that this market Finally, other features such as light guides can also be can exceed $1Bn by 2029 despite the slow take- structurally integrated. off. This success will come in smaller simpler steps Many innovations have been required to bring the first, meaning the first generation of products will be technology to this step including (a) stretchable relatively small-volume with low-circuit complex and conductive inks, (b) special adhesives formulated to relaxer reliability requirements. Automotive applications withstand the process conditions, and (c) thin optical to arrive from 2022-2023 onwards in notable volumes. www.IDTechEx.com/IME The panel in red shows product examples using two-shot molding, LDS, and aerosol. The bottom panel shows products and prototypes for IME. Sources are various including but not limited to Insulet, Zollner, SelectConnect Technologies, BMW, Kromberg & Schubert, GE, Lite-On, Atra, TactoTek, Geekly, JWSpeaker, Jabil, GiS, etc. Page 48 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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“Operating out of our 39,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Dallas, TX, Integrated Test Corporation offers turn-key design, fabrication and assembly solutions for leading-edge ATE test PCBs. The highly complex nature and size of these PCBs makes the need for Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) an absolute necessity. When we decided to purchase a new 3D AOI machine to fulfill our growing inspection requirements, MIRTEC was the obvious choice. With over 20 years experience in SMT manufacturing, I would highly recommend MIRTEC based on their state-of-the-art 3D Inspection Technology as well as their ease of programming and operation. We have been equally impressed with MIRTEC’s fast and effective Technical Support. In the rare moments in which a problem is encountered, MIRTEC’s Technical Service Team is lightning quick in both response and resolution.” Tom Bruszak – Quality Manager www.mirtec.com Page 49

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RED the industry vips take a bow DAGE Is Honoured with a Prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade DAGE Products, part of Nordson ELECTRONICS SOLUTIONS, is proud to announce that the company is one of 220 organizations nationally to be recognised with a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Announced on Tuesday 21 April, DAGE has been recognized for its excellence in international trade. Mani Ahmadi, General Manager of DAGE, commented, “We are proud to win this award as a recognition of our growth and success in providing the best test and inspection solution to our customers. It is a testament to our employees in UK and all around the world.” Now in its 54th year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the UK, with winning businesses able to use the esteemed Queen’s Awards emblem for the next five years. DAGE will celebrate its award during a royal reception for Queen’s Awards winners later in the year. www.nordson.com/en/divisions/dage Page 50 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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Indium Corporation Names Silver Quill Award Winners Indium Corporation has acknowledged several of its employees for their industry contributions with its annual Silver Quill Award. Indium Corporation’s Silver Quill Award program recognizes individuals who have authored original technical content in the form of conference papers, articles, presentations, and blog posts. It was designed to award employees for generating leading-edge research and thought-leadership technical content that addresses issues concerning customers in the electronics industry. The 2019 Paper of the Year award went to Kenneth Thum, Senior Technical Support Engineer, and Sze Pei Lim, Regional Product Manager for Semiconductor Products, for their paper Ultrafine Solder Paste Dispensing for Heterogeneous Integration. Bernie Leavitt, Jr., Senior Product Specialist, High-Temperature Engineered Solders, was recognized with an honorable mention award for his outstanding contribution and research paper, The Impact of AuSn Preforms Thickness on Solder Joint Reliability. www.indium.com Kenneth Thum, 2019 Paper of Sze Pei Lim, 2019 Paper of the Bernie Leavitt, Honorable the Year Award Year Award Mention Award Local Charities Receive £7,000 Donation from Andover-based Inseto Inseto, one of the UK’s leading technical distributors of equipment and materials into advanced engineering sectors, has donated £7,000 to seven local charities, all of which are close to the hearts of the company’s employees. The Countess of Brecknock Hospice, Andover MIND, the Andover Crisis Support Centre, Andover Food Bank, Naomi House, the Abel Foundation and Two Saints all received a donation of £1,000 each. Matt Brown, Managing Director of Inseto, comments: “Most charities are suffering during the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic and whilst the UK Government has announced an emergency support package for ‘front-line’ charities, we’re worried that funds may not reach several of our local ones here in Andover, that are more reliant on community based fund raising.” Brown concludes: “Like most companies we’re having to watch our outgoings during these difficult times, but we feel it is important to support our local charities, just as they have supported our employees’ families and friends during their difficult times.” www.inseto.co.uk Page 51

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOE Partner with Purpose: PRIDE Industries Takes Pride in Operations and Employees by Tony Lopez, VP OF OPERATIONS, MANUFACTURING & LOGISTICS SERVICES, PRIDE INDUSTRIES As a leading provider of service solutions as well as a nonprofit organization and while account management teams develop an leading employer of people with disabilities, PRIDE Industries strives to meet in-depth understanding of each customer’s the manufacturing and facilities services needs of business and government unique requirements, customizing solutions agencies nationwide. PRIDE creates jobs for people with disabilities in its to match their specific needs. PRIDE project own businesses and by partnering with others in the community. teams stay in constant communication to refine its services so that they remain aligned Founded in 1966 by a small group of parents with customers’ continually changing needs who wanted their adult children with disabilities and objectives. to have an opportunity for meaningful work, As part of its manufacturing and logistics PRIDE has grown to employ more than 5,600 services, PRIDE Industries offers specialized, individuals, more than half of whom have a wide state-of-the-art solutions in electronics range of disabilities. Today, the company’s core contract manufacturing and Class I and II lines of business not only support the mission of medical device manufacturing. As a single- creating good jobs for people with disabilities, but source, full-solutions provider, the company they also deliver innovative solutions that reduce saves its customers time and money with a full cost and add value for customers nationwide. range of flexible, scalable services that match their needs, including packaging, assembly, Pride Industries has been meeting and PRIDE Industries prepares people with and award-winning fulfillment and supply chain exceeding manufacturing and facilities disabilities for employment and more services. services needs of business and government independent lives. The company understands Whether a small manufacturer or a large agencies since 1966. that disabilities does not mean inability. corporation, PRIDE Industries has the logistics capabilities, warehouse distribution, and global Those at PRIDE understand that disability does “While our customers come to us first for sourcing expertise required for just-in-time not mean inability, and that employment builds quality and service at a fair price, they also deliveries and budget-friendly solutions. confidence, self-reliance, and dignity. For share in our social mission. By partnering PRIDE’s tier-one ERP technology system close to 55 years, PRIDE Industries has been with PRIDE, our customers are partnering streamlines processes and communication by successfully preparing people with disabilities with purpose to create opportunities for those integrating supplier management, inventory for employment and more independent lives. most often excluded from employment,” said controls, production resource planning, and Andrew Williams, Engineering Manager at sales order management. Most importantly, Every employee of PRIDE understands that PRIDE Industries. “People with disabilities are PRIDE delivers the quality standards required the company’s customers come to PRIDE for unemployed at a rate four times greater than in today’s industry. As a manufacturing partner, results. Each customer measures performance the general population, but they are some of PRIDE combines experience, equipment, excellence in different ways: increased quality, the most reliable and dedicated employees and technology with ISO 9001:2008 and improved efficiency, better value, customized you’ll find.” ISO 13485:2003 certified quality systems, solutions, or greater flexibility. And these dedicated engineering teams, and responsive are among the many ways PRIDE creates PRIDE Industries delivers outsourced service. Its results have won best practices customer value. The company also creates manufacturing and facilities solutions that recognition from some of the world’s leading social value when it helps individuals move help businesses and the government stay corporations. from dependence to greater independence and focused on their goals. PRIDE’s customers “When partnering with PRIDE Industries, higher self-esteem that comes with earning a range from small businesses to Fortune 100 we promise to work with integrity, deliver paycheck. companies, and from local government offices exceptional service results, and build a to large federal agencies and secure military relationship with you that you can trust,” installations across the country. Williams concluded. “We’re proud of the reputation we’ve established with our Industries served include aviation, public customers, and satisfaction surveys have service, commercial, education, government shown that 100 percent of customers surveyed services, environmental healthcare, medical, said they would use or recommend PRIDE and retail. Because PRIDE’s customers’ Industries’ services again.” operations are diverse and complex, its PRIDE Industries’ goal is simple: to exceed our customized service offerings span several customers’ expectations every time. categories that work either independently or www.prideindustries.com together. Dedicated project engineering teams analyze for manufacturability, test, and repair, Page 52 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY When JAVAD EMS (JEMS) was founded in 2010, TTOEDCAHYN the industry – like much of the economy – was still experiencing an economic downturn, which could have made it tricky for any company to be successful but especially a new one. However, the owners forged ahead with the EMS division because they believed that the solution they needed for themselves as an OEM was no different than what many other customers would need and want. Products were continuing to become more complex so the investment in equipment and software needed to be made to keep pace with the industry’s technology needs and end product quality requirements. Knowing that, JEMS set up a facility and installed the necessary equipment, software and processes to not only meet what they knew as current technology but also that could meet the future challenges of the most complex products and technologies coming their way. Fast forward to 10 years later and the company, now thriving, hasn’t changed its beliefs. Advanced equipment and processes allow JEMS to continue building advanced products with the highest levels of quality, regardless of the build: all are built the same way on the same equipment. “While we cannot eliminate entirely the need for human intervention in the manufacturing process, we do all we can to provide advanced automation, maximum knowledge and repeatable/defined processes to our operators,” commented Gary Walker, Vice President at JEMS. JAVAD EMS In 2010, the company purchased more than 40,000 square feet Celebrates of manufacturing space in the heart of Silicon Valley and updated a Decade of it to the highest standards of electronics manufacturing services, communication, client support, employee comfort and training. JEMS Improving offers four continuous flow SMT lines complete with inline 3D solder Electronics paste inspection and AOI. These lines are highly flexible, allowing for Manufacturing diverse and complex products using the latest in component packaging technologies to be assembled and with quick changeover between by JAVAD EMS Staff products, enabling high-mix, low- to medium-volume production. The majority of the kit sizes being run are less than 500 pieces but there are some higher volume accounts where the company produces thousands of PCBAs monthly. Advanced equipment and processes allow JEMS to continue building advanced products with the highest levels of quality JEMS’s list of PCB professional capabilities has become more comprehensive over the years and includes 01005s, microBGAs, LGAs, QFNs, package on package, double-sided BGA assembly, lead-free assembly processes, leaded assembly and aqueous wash processes, automated in-line 3D solder paste inspection for height/volume/area/ registration, automated optical PCB inspection systems, and automated 3D X-ray inspection systems. Page 54 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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Additional capabilities include: and real-time data into total manufacturing intelligence. • Paperless production process Each element supports the goals of speed, control and • Smart feeder system enables error-proof traceability visibility throughout the process from the factory office and product launch activities, through manufacturing and feeder set-up validation execution and culminating in total traceability, reporting, • All production-released documents controlled and monitoring. One thing that has not changed since day one is the through web-based work flow approval process company’s belief that its team members are the reason • Feeder trolley carts staged allowing for quick product it has such a strong reputation for quality, flexibility and customer service. JEMS constantly invests in its people. to product changeover This includes training, quality equipment, tools and • Extensive wireless functional test capabilities. Testing processes, an enjoyable workplace atmosphere, and much more. All of this fosters a cooperative spirit that is automated through the use of Labview software results in fast, quality services for customers. Walker and GPIB interface. added, “We are proud of the high retention rate of our • Flying head probe test capability: Designed to detect team members. Many of them have been with JEMS manufacturing defects on printed circuit boards, the since we first opened 10 years ago or since joining the JEMS tester uses four high-speed, independently company shortly thereafter in our initial year of operation.” moving probes, making it easy to access test All program managers have a minimum of 15 years’ points, vias, component pads and fine-pitch parts. experience in the electronics manufacturing services Fixtureless testers allow for easy inspection of SMT industry, and many have additional certifications including boards and are ideally suited for high board mix IPC A 610 Class 3, J-STD-001, IPC-A-600, Six Sigma prototype applications as well as low and medium Black Belt, and certified IPC trainers and specialists. volume production runs. Since most of JEMS’s customers have high-complexity • Vertical carousels allow for secure, controlled and products, high-mix, low- to medium-volume production efficient storage of parts by customer part number requirements, the company uses only the most • Smart SMT feeders carts allowing for fast, accurate advanced equipment and systems to provide continuous part retrieval and feeder set-up monitoring, verification and feedback of 100 percent of • Large 22 x 24” PCBA line its process steps regardless of board quantity (prototypes • Robotic soldering systems through production). This has allowed the company to • ESS temperature cycling chamber c/w humidity continually target customers with complex assemblies • 10 x 10 ft EMI shielded room while simultaneously increasing quality so that it has • In-house updated auditorium for employee training average first pass yields of greater than 96 percent and and presentations. average defects per million opportunity (DPMO) rates of The company also utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing less than 70, which allows JEMS to build more efficiently software that transforms product, process, materials and to surpass customers’ expectations. www.javadems.com Page 55

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TTOEDCAHYNOL Pillarhouse International Helps TECHNOTLOODGAYY Megger Instruments Improve Production Throughput by Simon Smith, Marketing Manager, Pillarhouse International Ltd. Megger has been a leader in electrical test and measurement globally for 130 years. From power generation to the power outlets in your home, Megger products cover almost every application within the Electrical Supply Industry. Their products are used for testing electrical equipment such as motors and generators and testing electrical installations, from buildings to high voltage substations. With manufacturing sites in various locations in Germany, USA, UK, and Sweden, and a headquarters (Megger Instruments Ltd.), based in Dover, UK; they are a global organisation. Keeping up with Technology Until 3 years ago, Megger had been using a traditional Wave Solder system, and hand-soldering for their through-hole components. The wave solder system was proving expensive to run and maintain and proving to not be cost effective for a modern manufacturing operation. Whilst they had a small, low volume, selective system it was not suitable for a full production environment. To ensure their production was able to keep up with demand, improving quality and reducing running costs Megger Instruments looked to add Selective Soldering capability to their production lines. In 2017 Page 56 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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they started to look at their requirements and what Pillarhouse installed a three-machine the market had to offer. “We looked at the sectors line consisting of a fluxer, complete manufacturers and their equipment ranges.” said Ronny with top and bottom preheaters; and Titeca, Megger’s Manufacturing Director, “We had two soldering modules. approximately 20 objectives we set for our selective requirements. From the original list we had a clear front Keeping up with Growth runner in Pillarhouse and conducted a series of test runs The Pillarhouse Synchrodex line proved so successful at their manufacturing site in Chelmsford. The results that in 2019 Megger invested in a second Pillarhouse were excellent and confirmed their status as front runner line, this time they selected the latest generation in our research.” Megger Instruments decided that Orissa Fusion system. Incorporating high speed PCB Pillarhouse, as a world leader, offered the best overall transfer, the Orissa Fusion platform offers the ultimate package of speed, quality and cost-of-ownership. in flexibility, coupled with reduced line length at a lower After this research Megger Instruments settled on the cost compared to current market offerings. The Megger Pillarhouse Synchrodex platform. This platform is based Instruments Orrisa Fusion has a four cell configuration on a modular approach to allow a customer to install providing them with a flux/preheat cell; a preheat cell an initial series of machines and to easily add additional and two soldering cells. This configuration ensures modules as and when production requirements increase. that with multiple preheat modules there is good flux Pillarhouse installed a three-machine line consisting of a penetration on heavy copper multi-layer PCB’s. Whilst fluxer, complete with top and bottom preheaters; and two solder cells allows for the use of two different nozzle two soldering modules. The line was completed with sizes to ensure the soldering of all pins, regardless of a barcode reader at the start of the line. This not only board design complexity. ensured product traceability but also that the correct Benefits of Selective Soldering process programs were used in each module. As a result of this investment in Selective Soldering technology Megger Instruments have seen an increase From the original list we in quality and throughput with a greatly reduced need had a clear front runner in for hand soldering. Megger’s Production Manager, Pillarhouse and conducted Marios Nicholaou, commented “The PillarCOMM control software makes the Pillarhouse systems very easy to a series of test runs at programme and the extensive range of parameters make their manufacturing site in the process extremely effective. The inclusion of a solder Chelmsford. The results were nozzle conditioning system reduces our production downtime and improves our operator safety”. excellent and confirmed The combination of Pillarhouse and Megger has proved their status as front runner to be a successful partnership and it is hoped to continue for a long time to come. in our research. www.pillarhouse.co.uk | www.megger.com Page 57

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TECHNOTLOODGAYY TTOEDCAHY PCBX Drives Digital Manufacturing with Help from Koh Young EXCERPT FROM INTERVIEW WITH MATT POLAK, CEO, PCBX Being an EMS in the low volume high mix market requires agility and speed, combined with an almost fanatical approach to quality. As Matt Polak, PCBX CEO puts it “When you’re talking about small runs that people need quickly, there’s not a lot of time to be able to refine the process over dozens or even hundreds of articles.” PCBX are different to the run-of-the-mill EMS company. They are young enough that ‘digitally-first’ processes come naturally to them and their desire to produce the best quality and combine that with the best, most agile and transparent customer service, sets them apart. When they decided to invest in inspection equipment, they absolutely knew they wanted to improve outcomes for process and quality performance. That meant being able to drop datasets in quickly and simply and get new products up and running fast. But it also meant being able to absolutely trust the equipment to improve yields and reduce escapes. For them that means getting it right out of the gate, turning work around quickly, faster change overs, and better yields. For their customer that means peace-of-mind, agility, faster deliveries, greater traceability and even more reliability. An Agile Digital Manufacturing Ecosystem As with every piece of equipment that PCBX invest in, the machine had to perform first, but it also had to connect and become part of the agile digital manufacturing ecosystem that the team at PCBX know to be fundamental to their future success and growth. Page 58 | MAY/JUN 2020 ISSUE

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From a feature point of view, the team quickly realized An Easy Selection Process the importance of having an SPI solution that offered The whole supplier selection process was made easy the ability to repair on-the-fly, within the machine. for PCBX. Firstly, they knew what they wanted, options As Matt Polak says, “Being a smaller operation and like autorepair were not on offer from every vendor and running smaller batches, the issue with cleaning off that narrowed the field. They knew they wanted to work pasted prints or doing reprints was huge. Many times, with the leader in 3D metrology and analysis and they we found only one aperture out of several thousand knew that meant Koh Young. And they had an eye to would clog. With the repair option, it’s fixed in a the future. They wanted digitally ready machines and to couple of seconds. We don’t have to risk a reprint, partner with a company that would keep them at the putting the board through again and going through front of the digital manufacturing landscape. Matt Polak the whole process.” said, “we saw the demo of the machine, we talked to To the team at PCBX it made perfect sense. Find the them, got it in, and we were 100% happy. We all thought, issue, and if they could repair on-the-fly, knowing it “man, we should have bought this a long time ago””. produced the right outcome. Then use the feedback Part of the Digital Journey from the machine to make the relevant adjustments or PCBX have their own programmers, so they have corrections during the next screen clean cycle. This been able to build their own tools to monitor their solution delivers reliable quality, complete traceability machines and performance. This gives them a route and avoid unnecessary line stoppages and rework. to extended functionality throughout the line. Their Smarter Printing Without a New Printer equipment partners need to be able to connect in using One of the machines on the line that PCBX plan to standard protocols, both existing and new, to ensure update is the printer, but a pivotal benefit of selecting they are future-proof and the can live their Industry 4.0 and installing the Koh Young KY8030-2 SPI with Auto aspirations. Repair has given them a digital dashboard for their Matt sums up the PCBX vision on the future, quoting printer. It has made a relatively dumb machine smart Wayne Gretzky, who said, “skate to where the puck and saved PCBX from making the printer investment is going to be, not to where it has been”, he adds, “I earlier than expected. It showed them their printer was think we’re seeing that right now. People are envisioning still capable of holding tight tolerances and improved its how things can be done better and taking a hint from performance and output. connectivity and other digitally enabled business models. People are also realizing that by forging these pcbx are young enough that standards in coopetition between vendors, there’s a net ‘digitally-first’ processes benefit from everybody. It’s not about how we subdivide come naturally to them and the pie, it’s about how do we grow the pie for everybody.” their desire to produce the Committed to Koh Young for the Future best quality and combine that with the best, most agile and PCBX have bold aspirations to continue to scale their transparent customer service, business, adding more SMT lines. And all with Koh sets them apart. Young as an integral part. Matt Polak concluded, “The experience has been fantastic. From sales training to As Matt Polak says, “The SPI saves us money because the total execution of support after the purchase, we nearly all defects that were caught previously were print really haven’t had any issues. It’s honestly been one related, and now we eradicate those much earlier. We of the easiest machines to integrate into our workflow. literally dropped to 0% rework on most boards after After you have all the training, which literally fits into installing the Koh Young SPI.” about a day, you’re going to see a return on investment very, very quickly.” Adding, “our guys were absolutely floored how much information it gave them to make their job of adjusting the stencil printer easier. It’s a great operator experience.” You can watch the interview that SCOOP and Forbes writer, Philip Spagnoli Stoten carried out with PCBX CEO, Matt Polak, at the Koh Young YouTube page or through this link: https://youtu.be/0l8B0Hz_2aQ www.kohyoung.com | www.pcbx.io Page 59

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THOSE WHO DEMAND MORE, DEMAND KOH YOUNG. KPO KOH YOUNG PROCESS OPTIMIZER OPTIMIZE ANALYZE DIAGNOSE SPI PRINTER Using true 3D Koh Young America, Inc. data can help 1950 Evergreen Blvd., Ste 200 manufacturers locate inefficiencies to boost Duluth, GA 30096 USA performance – and Koh Young +1-470-374-9254 is leading the effort. The Koh [email protected] Young Process Optimizer (KPO) includes software modules exercising kohyoung.com complex algorithms for closed-loop connectivity that helps manufacturers monitor and adjust processes. KPO Printer Advisor Module (PAM) actively optimizes the print process with real-time printer and SPI data to recommend ideal parameters. KPO Printer Diagnostic Module (PDM), provides real-time performance diagnostics with AI-powered anomaly detection algorithms to identify and alert users of process issues. Connected software solutions like KPO allows users to analyze results and implement changes in real-time without dedicated print process experts – saving time and cost. The importance escalates as Smart Factories evolve, and Koh Young continues to lead the way with solutions to help manufacturers improve production processes.

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