New flexible pick and place from Contax

Citation

(2005), "New flexible pick and place from Contax", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 17 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ssmt.2005.21917bad.006

New flexible pick and place from Contax

New flexible pick and place from Contax

Keywords: Surface mount technology, Assembly

Contax Ltd, has announced the availability of the new Essemtec FLX2000 series of SMT pick and place systems. These offer the ultimate in flexibility with a wide range of feeders, high production speeds and zero downtime during changeover.

The FLX2000 series is modular and can readily be upgraded. The basic FLX2010 can be expanded to a two module system, the FLX2020; whilst the addition of a further module will provide the largest FLX2030.

The top of the range Essemtec FLX2030 offers speeds of up to 15,000 cph, and the ability to load up to 480 different components. The system allows feeder changeover during operation and allows two different PCBs to be assembled in parallel, so maximising productivity at all times.

The FLX2030 can accommodate up to 300 feeders, and the machine's precision drive technology enables the placement of a vast range of components. These include: 0201 and 50 × 50 mm fine-pitch down to 12 mils (0.3 mm), BGA, MicroBGA and flip chips. Feeders for high or odd-shaped components are also available.

To ensure total accuracy of placement, FLX2000 series relies on a combination of both laser and vision centring systems. The integrated feeder management system automatically recognises the feeders and pickup height, whilst LEDs display feeder status and notify the operator if a minimum quantity is reached. The unique feeder set up control system is based on barcode identification, so preventing the risk of set up failure and guaranteeing correct placement.

Dispensing systems for glue or solder paste can be integrated, with the programs automatically produced from pick and place data.

The complete software package for production planning, feeder set up optimisation and control, with barcode and component stock management is included in the system. During production, all placement and component data are stored and can be retrieved later for tracing or analysis.

Machine programming can be prepared off-line during production. CAD data in any format can be imported and the board graphically displayed before production. After loading the program in the system, the placement can be controlled virtually before production commences.

If required, the FLX2000 series can also include management information system (MIS) software. This includes programs to control stock management, production planning, simulation and data recording for traceability.

For further information, contact: E-mail: Joconnor@contax.co.uk