Ready for highly flexible production

Hardmeier Electronics, a major Contract Manufacturer in Switzerland, replaced its complete SMT assembly line with a brand new ULTRAFLEX-LINE from ESSEMTEC. The line is capable of running larger batches in inline mode, but allows additionally to run different boards simultaneously. As Hardmeier is specialised on the assembly of small to midsize batches, the FLX-machines provide the unique possibilty to run on certain days larger series with higher speed, while on other days several small batches can be produced simultaneously.

The unique feeder concept with bar code scanning, ensures placement quality and enables product change overs while the machine is placing boards. The FLX1020-V holds up to 200 feeders and minimizes therefore the need for feeder changes. Two centring methods are integrated; laser and vision centring - giving the customer the possibility to place nearly all available components from 0201 up to large QPF's, BGA, MicroBGA, but also oddshape components like connectors. The integrated software optimizes the feeder set up additionally to eliminate unnecessary change overs when changing the production. The additionally integrated dispensing system gives the possibility to dispense directly on the same line adhesives or even solder paste for prototypes or smaller batches.

The combination with specialised loader/unlader systems, a FIFO Buffer and Inspection conveyor as well as the full convection oven RO400FC-C for lead free production makes this installation a fully automatic solution for low to midsize volumes. Cost savings are achieved by the use of a Management Information System which manages the complete component stock, analyzes the production process as well as takes over the complete line management.