2024/12/23
ASMPT printing machine enables automatic solder paste transfer and quick scraper change.
As a market leader and innovation leader in SMT production technology, ASMPT has added two new features to its mature DEK printing platform: automatic solder paste transfer and simplified scraper change. With its broad product portfolio, ASMPT covers almost every aspect of the SMT production process, while continuing to drive automation and simplify operations. Rick Goldsmith, Director of Product Management at ASMPT, explains: "Solder paste printing is the most error-prone part of SMT production, and many of these steps are still manual. However, as the recruitment of qualified operators becomes more difficult, our customers are increasingly looking for innovative solutions that reduce labor and material costs while effectively reducing error rates." Solder paste transfer When the Settings of the press need to be changed, the solder paste from the old steel mesh needs to be transferred to the new steel mesh. "Previously, the process was done manually with a scraper," explains Goldsmith. This method often results in part of the solder paste can not be completely transferred, there is always some left in the old steel net. In addition, the solder paste can become contaminated or diverted to the wrong place, which can cause short circuits and other problems." Now, a new solder paste transfer device from DEK TQ simplifies this process. As long as the process parameters are set to allow, the solder paste is automatically transferred whenever the steel mesh is replaced. To do this, the scraper pushes the paste to the transfer device, which then applies the paste to the new steel mesh. Next, the system will use the steel mesh bottom cleaning device to clean the residual solder paste. Solder paste transfer: ASMPT automatically transfers solder paste during mesh replacement and accelerates the transition process. "This fully automated solder paste transfer system eases the workload of scarce operators," Goldsmith notes. Faster, more accurate and more efficient than manual operation. In traditional manual operations, up to 10% solder paste is often left in the steel mesh, and our automatic solder paste transfer system reduces this figure by 5%. This system greatly reduces the cost of solder paste, thus reducing the production cost of each PCB." The new solder paste transfer system can be easily installed on the solder paste presses of the DEK TQ series. Quick Scraper change ASMPT also improves the scraper change process for solder paste presses. Goldsmith explains: "Previously, the scraper was secured with two finger screws, and in order to replace the scraper, the operator needed to loosen the pair of screws and then tighten them again, a process that was time-consuming and often problematic. For example, some operators will screw too tight, subsequent personnel can not loosen. The time factor is also important, and it is not unusual to change knives more than 20 times a day." Quick blade change: Automatic lock and unlock features reduce blade change time by 50% Thanks to the innovative design of the new stand, the blade is automatically unlocked when it needs to be removed from the machine, greatly simplifying the change process. Then it can be easily replaced in one step, and when the scraper is put back into the bracket, the bracket automatically locks. This device reduces the scraper replacement time by 50%. In addition, mechanical pins prevent misinstallation of the scraper. The quick-change scraper unit can be retrofitted in a matter of hours and is compatible with both DEK TQ and NeoHorizon platforms. Goldsmith goes on to add, "SMT production is becoming increasingly competitive, and to stand out in this space requires a continuous drive to automate and simplify operations. ASMPT understands the challenges facing SMT manufacturers and is committed to providing customers with unique solutions to help them win in the fierce market competition." About ASMPT Limited (ASMPT) ASMPT is a leading global supplier of hardware and software solutions for the manufacture of semiconductors and electronic products. Headquartered in Singapore, ASMPT's products cover semiconductor assembly, packaging and SMT (surface mount technology), from wafer deposition to a wide range of solutions for organizing, assembling and packaging precision electronic components for the manufacture of end-use electronic devices such as electronics, mobile communications devices, computing devices, automotive, industrial and LED (display) devices. Working closely with its customers, ASMPT continues to invest in research and development to develop cost-effective and impactful solutions that contribute to their productivity, reliability and quality. ASMPT (HKEX stock code :0522) is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Mid-Cap Index under the Hang Seng Composite Market Cap Index, the Hang Seng Composite Information Technology Industry Index under the Hang Seng Composite Industries Index and the Hang Seng Hong Kong 35 Index. For more information about ASMPT, please visit: https://www.asmpt.com ASMPT SMT Solutions Segment The mission of ASMPT SMT Solutions Segment is to implement and support SMT integrated smart factories for electronics manufacturers worldwide. ASMPT solutions support the networking, automation and optimization of online and factory-level central workflows through hardware, software and services, enabling electronics manufacturers to make a phased transition to the smart factory and significantly improve productivity, flexibility and quality. With its holistic "open automation" philosophy, ASMPT opens the door for customers to cost-effective automation that is modular, flexible and non-proprietary, tailored to their individual needs. The company's portfolio of products and services includes hardware and software such as SIPLACE mounters, DEK presses, inspection and material storage solutions, and intelligent shop floor management suites. With Works, ASMPT provides electronics manufacturers with high-quality software for planning, controlling, analyzing, and optimizing all processes on the shop floor. As maintaining close relationships with customers and partners is a core component of its strategy, ASMPT has established the SMT Smart Network as a platform for active exchange of information between smart factories around the world.
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