Remploy Electronics has installed a new lead-free, wave soldering system at its Barking manufacturing facility.
The SM-450 series, made by JT Electronics, is the second model purchased by Remploy and follows the successful adoption of an SM-450 in the company's Bolton plant last year.
The SM-450 series employs an electromagnetic pumping system to generate and control the solder wave flow, removing the need for moving parts. This method also enables highly accurate control of the solder height, resulting in an extremely stable solder wave.
Lead-free alloys can cause levels of abrasion greater than those associated with a lead solder process. Utilising a non-mechanical pumping method significantly reduces the incidence of dross production and removes the possibility of attrition of pump parts contaminating the solder. Also, with three independent pre-heating zones, the system is ready for use with VOC-free flux as, and when, volatile organic compounds are phased out in future. A cooling module fitted immediately after the solder wave ensures brighter and smoother solder joints when processing with lead-free alloys.
Jamie D'Albe, Remploy Electronics' manufacturing manager, commented: "This wave soldering installation adds to our capacity for producing consistently high quality PCBs in greater volumes. We have had a very positive experience following our adoption of an SM-450 soldering system in Bolton and we are now duplicating this capability in Barking. This is in line with Remploy's strategy of offering our customers greater flexibility by providing increased interchangeability between our manufacturing sites."
Steve Mason and Jamie D'Albe (Right), manufacturing manager, Remploy Electronics