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Shuttle System Increases Print Flexibility
July 26, 2007 |Estimated reading time: 1 minute
AESCH, Switzerland The SP600 batch printer from ESSEMTEC optimizes automation with a proprietary shuttle system that targets simplified substrate loading/unloading, and fully programmable print processes. The system targets medium-volume production or stand-alone use for special jobs and over-capacity runs.
A standard 29" × 29" stencil-frame fixture suits printing to single- or double-sided PCBs up to 450 × 500 mm. A vacuum plate is optional for flexible foils or other product-specific supports.
In both end positions, the system's shuttle is pneumatically pressed against hard stoppers, reportedly enabling repeatability better than ±4 µm. Accurate "Star"-based rail systems and the shuttle system let users implement various standard or custom configurations for the print table, while automated features include offset correction and user-independent processing. SP600 prints solder paste onto PCBs, conductive glue onto flex circuits, and pastes onto ceramic substrates. The table is motorized on X, Y, C, and Theta axes. The vertical axis features a parallel spindle drive system for controlled separation of the stencil from the substrate after printing. The SP600 supports rubber or metal squeegee use, and squeegee pressure can be set for each stroke. Center-mount squeegees are said to apply even pressure.
As part of the operating software, a job-documentation tool and graphics-based interface are said to enable improved changeover and uptime. Software records all materials used, such as solder paste or stencil name, mechanical adjustments for a given project, and all print-process parameters. Additional features include programmable printing steps and an integrated vision system that, with the motorized table, automates substrate/stencil alignment.
The SP600-USC model option offers automatic stencil cleaning with wet, dry, or vacuum techniques. It suits larger series and printing delicate or fine structures. Stencil and squeegee remain in place during cleaning.