REDDITCH, UK – Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics manufacturing industry, has announced the successful installation of an advanced PCBA cleaning system at Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL). The Kolb PSE LH5 will optimise SSTL's critical cleaning processes for their sophisticated electronics applications.
SSTL is renowned for delivering complete mission solutions and is at the forefront of space innovation. Their customised systems for earth observation, science, communications, navigation, in-orbit debris removal and servicing, requires electronics of the highest quality and reliability. As a result, SSTL's production processes must meet exceedingly stringent standards, which includes their electronics cleaning processes.
Altus has a long-standing partnership with SSTL, having previously supplied them with cleaning equipment. As SSTL sought to modernise and optimise its PCBA cleaning process for its critical space and satellite applications, they selected Kolb's industry-leading PSE LH5 system as the ideal solution.
Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We have seen a number of Kolb cleaning projects come through in 2023 and even the start of 2024, but being able to secure a partnership with a world-class company like SSTL is particularly significant. SSTL is truly a jewel of UK electronics manufacturing. The nature of their products demands production quality at the highest possible level, so being selected by them to enhance their production process shows the confidence and technical value they place in Kolb's cleaning solutions and in Altus as a trusted supplier."
The Kolb PSE LH5 boasts unique features and advanced engineering, setting it apart as a top-tier solution for precision cleaning in electronics manufacturing. Manufactured entirely in Germany, Kolb's expertise spans chemistry and cleaning systems, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the cleaning process. The PSE LH5 offers a highly capable cleaning process tailored for products with smaller board sizes, making it an ideal choice for SSTL's exacting requirements.
Adam Chudziak from SSTL said: "The quality and reliability of our satellite electronics are absolutely critical to mission success. After a comprehensive evaluation, the Kolb PSE LH5 system supplied by Altus Group was the clear choice to modernise our PCBA cleaning capabilities. We have full confidence it will enable us to uphold and enhance our meticulous cleaning processes moving forward."
This fully automatic economy batch cleaner is designed to deliver exceptional cleaning performance for assembled PCBs. With a high-capacity cleaning cycle, the PSE LH5 thoroughly removes misprints from reflow flux residues, resin, copper, oxide, and soldering support substances. Its innovative features, including a two-tank system with triple-circuit function, automatic monitoring of ionic residues, and high-resolution display for software control, guarantee efficient and reliable cleaning processes.
MORRISVILLE, NC – The Board of Directors of the International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (iNEMI) has named Grace O’Malley Chief Technical Officer (CTO).
As CTO, Grace will take a more strategic role in shaping iNEMI’s technology vision. She will continue to work with iNEMI’s Technical and Research committees and will provide oversight between roadmapping and project activities to ensure alignment with industry needs. She will also interface with member companies to identify the critical areas where iNEMI should focus efforts to drive innovation, ensuring the consortium’s technical activities align with and support members’ business goals.
“Grace’s professionalism, expertise, and passion for excellence make her a perfect fit for this crucial role in our organization,” said iNEMI CEO Shekhar Chandrashekhar. “Grace has been a valuable member of our team since joining iNEMI, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of our technological landscape. She has played a pivotal role in supporting technology implementations in our member companies, and in spearheading key projects and fostering collaboration across the electronics manufacturing value chain.”
Grace joined iNEMI in 2007 as iNEMI was building its presence in Europe. She was named Vice President of Global Operation in 2014, and later became Vice President of Technology and Project Operations.
Prior to iNEMI, Grace worked for Motorola in the U.S. on the development and deployment of flip chip capabilities and low-cost assembly processes. She also led a multidisciplinary research team at Motorola’s site in Jaguariuna, Brazil. Grace started her career focused on electronics packaging and board assembly at the Tyndall National Institute (Cork, Ireland).
Grace holds eight U.S. patents. She is currently on the IEEE EPS Board of Governors as a member-at-large for Region 8 (2023-2025) and also served in that capacity for 2018-2020. Grace has an honours bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from University College Cork (Ireland), and a Master of Science in Materials and Manufacturing Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago). Grace is based in Limerick, Ireland.
MANASSAS, VA – ZESTRON, the leading global provider of high-precision cleaning products, services, and training solutions in the electronics manufacturing and semiconductor industries, proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated webinar series on Advanced Packaging & Power Electronics, a webinar series on the latest innovations, cleaning, and corrosion challenges. Designed to address the evolving challenges in semiconductor manufacturing, this comprehensive series of webinars will delve into cutting-edge topics crucial for optimizing processes and enhancing reliability.
Led by Senior Application Engineer Ravi Parthasarathy, ZESTRON's upcoming webinar series promises to be an indispensable resource for professionals in the semiconductor industry. With a focus on addressing the unique challenges and requirements of semiconductor manufacturing, each session will deliver invaluable insights and practical solutions. Recognizing the intricate demands of the semiconductor sector, the webinars will provide tailored content designed to meet the specific needs of industry professionals, from semiconductor fabrication facilities to electronic component manufacturers. Ravi brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table, with years of hands-on involvement in advanced packing and power electronics cleaning technologies, offering a unique perspective on the industry's evolving landscape and ensuring that participants receive expert guidance backed by real-world insights.
The webinar series will foster an interactive learning environment, encouraging participants to engage with the material and exchange ideas with fellow industry professionals through live Q&A sessions. In an industry where innovation is constant, staying ahead of the latest developments is paramount. ZESTRON's Advanced Packaging & Power Electronics webinar series serves as a platform for continual learning, empowering semiconductor professionals to remain at the forefront of their field.
Webinar Topics Include:
For registration and more information, visit ZESTRON’s website: ZESTRON Semicon Webinar Series
ANN ARBOR, MI – Aven, a full-service technology provider, is pleased to announce its partnership with Industrial Source Inc. (ISI), a respected national representative firm based in Chicago. This strategic alliance aims to bolster support for Aven's industrial distribution partners, ensuring enhanced promotion and visibility of Aven's products in the industrial marketplace.
With years of experience ranging from working with small manufacturers to large multinational companies like Rust-Oleum Paints & Coatings, ISI brings invaluable expertise and insight to the table. Their proven track record in successfully promoting products to the industrial marketplace through large distributors aligns perfectly with Aven's goals of expanding its reach and better serving its distribution network.
"As we continue to grow and evolve, it's crucial for Aven to align with partners who share our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction," said Mark Kanpurwala, VP Sales & Marketing at Aven. "ISI's extensive experience and industry knowledge make them an ideal partner to help us better support our industrial distribution partners and drive growth in the marketplace."
Through this collaboration, Aven aims to strengthen its relationships with industrial distributors, provide them with enhanced support and resources, and ultimately increase the visibility and availability of its products to customers across various industries.
"We are very excited to partner with Aven and contribute to their success in the industrial marketplace," said Doug DiVenere, Senior Managing Partner at ISI. "Aven's reputation for delivering high-quality products aligns perfectly with our agency’s mission to provide exceptional service and support to our clients. Together, we look forward to driving mutual growth within the industrial distribution channel."
For more information about ISI, visit www.isiconnection.com
For more information about Aven, visit aventools.com
CHICAGO, IL – Bimos, a leading provider of ergonomic ESD seating solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Z TECH SERVICES, INC. as its newest representative.
Established in 1993, Z TECH SERVICES serves a wide range of states, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska, with a dedicated sales staff known for its experience and technical expertise.
With this new partnership, Bimos expands its reach and enhances its ability to serve clients in key regions across the United States. Z TECH SERVICES brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to providing efficient and effective sales support to its clients.
Bimos is renowned for its range of ESD seating solutions, including the acclaimed Neon, Nexxit, and Labsit series. These products are specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of the electronics industry, offering unmatched comfort, durability, and ergonomic support. Bimos' commitment to design innovation, exceptional quality, safety certifications, and ergonomic excellence makes its seating solutions the preferred choice for businesses seeking to invest in the health and productivity of their employees.
"We are excited to welcome Z TECH SERVICES to the Bimos family," said Mark Scelfo US Managing Director at Bimos. "Their extensive experience and dedication to customer service align perfectly with our values, and we are confident that together, we will continue to provide outstanding seating solutions to our clients in the electronics industry."
For more information about the Bimos Stool System and other ergonomic seating solutions from Bimos, please visit www.bimos.com
CLINTON, NY – Indium Corporation Product Manager – Semiconductor Dean Payne will present at the Advanced Packaging for Power Electronics conference, hosted by IMAPS, held May 8-9 in Woburn, Massachusetts, USA. Payne’s presentation, scheduled for May 9, will examine the challenges and benefits of transitioning from high-Pb solder to Pb-free solder for die-attach in discrete power applications.
High-Pb solder has long been the standard material for die-attach in discrete power devices; however, market-leading device manufacturers have been actively working with suppliers to find alternatives. In addition to Pb-free solders, other options are being considered, including TLPS, adhesives, and sinter materials. Focusing on a novel, dual-alloy, high-temperature, Pb-free solder, Payne will explore the pros and cons of the different material options and explain why Pb-free solder shows the most promise as an alternative to high-Pb solutions.
“The results and analysis presented will highlight how this new Pb-free solder can outperform Pb-based solder in some aspects of function and reliability,” said Payne. “With successful customer trials already completed, this new Pb-free solder is ready for industry adoption.”
Payne is responsible for driving the profitable growth of Indium Corporation’s power semiconductor materials, which include high-Pb die-attach paste, high-temperature Pb-free solutions, and sintering materials. He has more than 13 years of experience in semiconductor/wafer fabrication. Dean holds multiple certifications from the University of Wales and Coleg Gwent in the United Kingdom, including the Level 3 National Vocational Qualification in electrical and electronic engineering, the Higher National Certificate in electrical and electronic engineering, and the Higher National Diploma in engineering.