DEK has launched its brand
new Paste Roll Height Monitor, an easy-to-use productivity tool designed to
eliminate defects and improve end-of-line yield. Using lasers to detect the
presence of solder paste, the new technology monitors the height of the paste
roll to provide operators with a new level of process control.
With simple and fast set-up guaranteed by DEK’s next-generation Instinctiv®
V9 user interface, the Paste Roll Height Monitor consists of two sensors that
sit on either side of the squeegee blade framework support and are fully integrated
into most printer software. Using laser technology, a light curtain detects
solder paste presence or absence, sending a signal to the printer. If paste
crosses the light threshold and breaks the light beam, then the printer reads
that as a signal that paste is present and will continue to process boards as
normal. If, however, the light curtain is not disturbed, indicating a low paste
height, the printer will alert the operator to add solder paste.
As the paste roll starts to recede, the printer issues a warning so that operators
are given time to react before the solder paste is completely gone. Once the
warning is received, the printer can be programmed to stop and await manual
paste replenishment, or the paste dispenser can automatically engage to deposit
paste. By using the automatic paste dispenser option for high volume applications,
operators can automate the replenishment cycle to eliminate operator errors
and optimise paste deposit. The result is significantly enhanced value-of-ownership
with reduced consumables refilling time, decreased paste consumption and improved
quality.
Commenting on the new launch, DEK Global Applied Process Engineer Paul Laycock
explains: “Process control is an extremely broad term that encompasses
many aspects of the printing operation. Here at DEK, we know that product quality
often comes down to the most basic decision. For example, one simple process
control item often forgotten is ensuring there is enough paste in front of the
squeegee before printing, or even, ensuring there is any at all! In fact, this
is one of the biggest causes of failures at factories. Our new Paste Roll Height
Monitor tool is a simple and easily-installed remedy for this challenge, a significant
assist in eliminating insufficient defects. Remembering to put down paste is
aided by a reminder from the printer. Or even better, with our automatic paste
dispenser function, the printer takes care of everything – leaving operators
free to manage other critical components of the process.”
Posted September 22nd, 2009
