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DEK PRINTER, Squeegee MPM MOMENTUM ; MPM 125 , MPM MOMENTUM BTB , MPM 100 , MPM EDISON , MPM MOMENTUM HIE ,SPEEDLINE , ITW EAE，MPM SPARE PARTS , MPM UP2000 , MPM ACCUFLEX,MPM ACCELA ,MPM AP EXCEL ,MPM AP , MPM UP3000 , MPM UP1500 , CAMALOT PRODIGY , CAMALOT 8300 , Camalot Dispensers , MPM PRINTER PARTS,GKG PRINTER ,DEK TQ , DEK NeoHorizon 03 iX ,Horizon 03 ix, 265 ,DEK NeoHorizon 01 iX
1. Introduction
In the modern electronics manufacturing industry, the accuracy and efficiency of printed circuit board (PCB) production are crucial. Automated solder paste printers play a pivotal role in this process, ensuring that solder paste is precisely applied to PCBs. Two of the leading brands in this sector are MPM and DEK, both renowned for their advanced printing technologies. This comprehensive overview delves into the history, technologies, features, and applications of MPM and DEK printers, providing an in-depth understanding of their contributions to electronics manufacturing.
2. MPM Printers
2.1 History and Background
MPM, a brand under ITW EAE (Illinois Tool Works Electronics Assembly Equipment), has been a significant player in the solder paste printing industry for over three decades. Founded in 1968 in Somerville, Massachusetts, MPM has built a reputation for its innovation in screen printing technology. The company’s printers are designed to meet the rigorous demands of electronics manufacturing, from high precision to high throughput. MPM’s commitment to research and development has led to several breakthroughs in printing technology, solidifying its position as a leader in the field.
2.2 Key Technologies and Features
2.2.1 Printing Technology
MPM printers utilize advanced screen printing technology, which involves transferring solder paste through a mesh screen onto the PCB. This process is critical for ensuring precise solder depositions and reliable electrical connections. MPM’s printers are engineered to handle a wide range of PCB sizes and complexities, offering versatility and adaptability in various manufacturing environments.
2.2.2 Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI)
Modern MPM printers are equipped with sophisticated Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI) systems. AOI technology enables real-time inspection of printed PCBs, detecting issues such as misalignment, insufficient paste coverage, and other defects. This proactive approach helps in minimizing the risk of defects reaching the assembly stage, thereby improving overall product quality and reducing rework.
2.2.3 Advanced Features
MPM printers come with several advanced features designed to enhance performance and ease of use:
- Vision Systems: High-resolution cameras provide precise alignment and inspection capabilities, ensuring accurate paste application and reducing the likelihood of defects.
- Automated Paste Dispensing: Automated systems manage the application of solder paste, optimizing consistency and minimizing waste.
- Temperature Control: Integrated temperature management systems maintain optimal paste viscosity, ensuring reliable printing performance.
- User-Friendly Interfaces: Intuitive control panels and software simplify operation and maintenance, reducing the learning curve for operators.
2.3 Applications
MPM printers are used in a variety of applications, reflecting their versatility and reliability:
- Consumer Electronics: MPM printers are widely employed in the production of PCBs for smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices. The high precision and reliability of MPM printers are crucial for meeting the stringent requirements of consumer electronics manufacturing.
- Automotive: The automotive industry relies on MPM printers for producing PCBs used in automotive electronics and control systems. MPM’s technology ensures that these critical components are manufactured to exacting standards.
- Industrial Electronics: MPM printers are also used in the production of PCBs for industrial machinery and equipment. The robust performance of MPM printers makes them suitable for handling complex and demanding applications.
- 2.4 Edison Stencil Printer
- The Edison printer is the industries’ most accurate printer (certified by third party) with +/- 15μ @ 6σ wet print repeatability. Total throughput is lightning fast due in part to the highly-efficient, parallel processing of the stencil shuttle system, stencil wiping, paste dispensing and vision alignment system. The MPM Edison™ stencil printer is ideally suited for the growing Automotive, Semiconductor and Smart Device manufacturing markets.
- 2.5 Edison II ACT Stencil Printer
- The MPM Edison II ACT (Automated Changeover Technology) was developed based on the proven MPM Edison platform, the industry’s most accurate printer with advanced technology. With a built-in ±8 micron machine alignment, and ±15 micron wet print accuracy (≥2 Cpk @ 6 sigma, Edison’s wet print accuracy. The Edison II ACT has a proven process capability greater than 2Cpk for 0201 metric components, an ideal solution to meet the increasing miniaturization and board component density challenges in Semiconductor, Automotive, Smart Devices and etc.
- Production line changeover is one of the most labor intensive, time consuming, and error prone tasks in the electronics manufacturing. This innovative MPM patented Automated Changeover Technology (ACT) provides a simple, cost-effective and progressive solution toward the end goal for factory automation.
- 2.6 Momentum II BTB Stencil Printer
- Momentum® II BTB features a smaller footprint than the standard Momentum platform. Back-to-Back configuration allows dual lane processing for higher throughput without increasing line length or capital investment. Dual lane provides the flexibility to print multiple products in a single SMT line, such as top and bottom side, same side, or mother/ daughter boards making the BTB the most flexible model in the proven Momentum platform.
- 2.7 Momentum II 100 Stencil Printer
- The Momentum® II 100 stencil printer is a hard-working, value-priced machine utilizing the robust, reliable Momentum series printer proven in top facilities around the world. Featuring a modest footprint that can grow with the user: add or retrofit innovative, patented features as throughput demands grow.
- 2.8 Momentum II Elite Stencil Printer
- The MPM Momentum II stencil printer is a proven, highly productive printer platform with industry leading accuracy and repeatability (certified by third party). Enhanced technologies provide further improvement around machine productivity, yield, ease of use, and flexibility.
- The Momentum II Elite stencil printer is the top-performer of the Momentum series, boasting the highest throughput and shortest cycle times of all. Its vision system is driven by servos for speed, and it’s configured with a highly-efficient triple track rail system that saves cycle time by buffering PCBs inside the machine. A new board is indexed into the machine and positioned next to the center nest, readying to print, while other boards are being loaded and offloaded.
- The Momentum II is designed for high throughput and accuracy. MPM’s rigid frame is welded for low vibrations and major assemblies are driven by precision ball screws. This allows for higher repeatability and greater reliability over time.
- Momentum II has an advanced print head featuring a high precision load cell with closed loop pressure control for precise and consistent squeegee force. Tighter performance tolerances mean consistent repeatability with higher yield.
- 2.9 Momentum II HiE Stencil Printer
- The MPM Momentum II stencil printer is a proven, highly productive printer platform with industry leading accuracy and repeatability (certified by third party). Enhanced technologies provide further improvement around machine productivity, yield, ease of use, and flexibility.
- The new Momentum II HiE is a single-rail stencil printer with servo motors, rather than stepper motors, driving the vision system’s X, Y, and Z axes. Faster than steppers, servos drive the vision gantry at higher speed and thus increase throughput and cut cycle time, making the Hi-E an efficient high-volume printer. New features enable improvement in productivity, yield, versatility, and ease of use.
- The Momentum II stencil printers are designed for high throughput and accuracy. MPM’s rigid frame is welded for low vibrations and major assemblies are driven by precision ball screws. This allows for higher repeatability and greater reliability over time.
- Momentum II has an advanced print head featuring a high precision load cell with closed loop pressure control for precise and consistent squeegee force. Tighter performance tolerances mean consistent repeatability with higher yield.
3. DEK Printers
3.1 History and Background
DEK, a key player in the electronics assembly industry, has a rich history of innovation in solder paste printing. Established in the 1990s, DEK quickly gained recognition for its high-precision printing solutions. The company’s focus on continuous improvement and technological advancement has positioned DEK as a leading provider of screen printing equipment for the electronics industry.
3.2 Key Technologies and Features
3.2.1 Printing Technology
DEK printers utilize screen printing technology similar to MPM’s but with proprietary enhancements. DEK’s printers are designed to achieve high precision in solder paste deposition, ensuring uniform application across various PCB designs. The printers are equipped to handle different PCB sizes and configurations, making them versatile tools for electronics manufacturing.
3.2.2 Inline AOI
One of DEK’s notable advancements is the integration of inline AOI systems. These systems perform real-time inspection of printed PCBs, allowing for immediate detection and correction of issues such as misalignment or paste defects. The inline AOI capability helps in maintaining high product quality and reducing the likelihood of defects reaching the subsequent stages of production.
3.2.3 Advanced Features
DEK printers are known for their advanced features, which include:
- High-Speed Printing: DEK printers are capable of achieving high throughput while maintaining exceptional print quality. This is particularly valuable in high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Flexible Printing Capabilities: DEK’s printers are designed to accommodate a wide range of PCB sizes and complexities, providing flexibility in production.
- Enhanced Automation: DEK printers feature automated systems for stencil cleaning, paste management, and other processes, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
- Real-Time Data Monitoring: DEK printers are equipped with systems for monitoring print quality and process data, allowing for real-time adjustments and optimization.
3.3 Applications
DEK printers are employed in various applications, reflecting their high-speed and flexible capabilities:
- High-Volume Manufacturing: DEK printers are well-suited for high-volume production environments, such as those found in consumer electronics and automotive industries.
- Precision Applications: In sectors where precision and reliability are critical, such as aerospace and medical devices, DEK printers provide the necessary accuracy and performance.
- Prototyping and Low-Volume Production: DEK printers are also used in prototyping and low-volume production runs, offering flexibility and precision for developing and manufacturing prototypes.
- 3.4 DEK TQ
- The DEK TQ is superfast (core cycle time: only 5 to 6.5 seconds), highly precise (±17.0 microns @ 2 cmk), and a real space-saver. With two model versions, the platform now also features outstanding flexibility: the DEK TQ for boards measuring up to 400 by 400 millimeters, and the DEK TQ L for boards measuring up to 600 by 510 millimeters.
- New three-stage conveyors, the unique ASMPT NuMotion controller with fiber-optic cabling and up to 50 percent faster cleaning processes guarantee high-speed operation. New drives, off-belt printing and innovative clamping systems deliver unprecedented accuracy and an exceptionally stable printing process. With the Dual Access Cover for paste cartridge changeover without stopping the printer, automatic Smart Pin Support and a series of more smart features, the printers run on average for more than eight hours without a single user assist. Thanks to its many interfaces and supported communication standards, the DEK TQ platform fits into ASMPT’s Open Automation concept seamlessly.
- 3.5 DEK NeoHorizon
- Best printing offering to cover all your needs
- DEK NeoHorizon 03 iX:
- Machine Alignment Capability: ±12.5 µm @ 2.0 cmk, (±6 Sigma)
- System Alignment Capability: +/- 20μm @ 2.0 cmk, (±6 Sigma)
- Wet Print Capability: ±25 µm @ 2.0 cpk, (±6 Sigma) – Certified by external system for every printer before delivery by standard
- Core Cycle Time (CCT): 8 sec.
- Perfect printing solution for best performance in high-mix production
- DEK NeoHorizon 01 iX:
- Machine Alignment Capability: ±12.5 µm @ 2.0 cmk, (±6 Sigma)
- System Alignment Capability: +/- 15μm @ 2.0 cmk, (±6 Sigma)
- Wet Print Capability: ±20 µm @ 2.0 cpk, (±6 Sigma) – Certified by external system for every printer before delivery by standard
- Core Cycle Time (CCT): 6.5 sec.
- Best printing quality with maximum throughput
- DEK NeoHorizon Back-to-Back:
- The DEK NeoHorizon Back-to-Back setup offers higher print performance in dual-lane assembly line.
- DEK NeoHorizon Options
- DEK provides the industry’s most powerful and flexible printing platforms. The following retrofittable DEK options help you further improve productivity and print quality on your DEK NeoHorizon printer:
- Full flexible DEK All Purpose Clamping (APC) system
- High flexibility and maximum cleaning performance with DEK Typhoon Cleaner
- DEK Grid-Lok: the universal board support system
- DEK Paste Management: the best combination of automated paste dispensing with paste roll height control
- Closed loop to SPI systems with ProDEK
- DEK Multiple Alignment of Singulated Substrates (MASS) offers a solution for individual optical alignment at a very high speed to boost your throughput
4. Comparative Analysis
4.1 Technology and Performance
Both MPM and DEK printers offer high-precision screen printing technologies, but there are key differences in their approaches:
- MPM: Focuses on integrating advanced features for accuracy, ease of maintenance, and operator convenience. MPM printers are known for their robust AOI systems and intuitive interfaces.
- DEK: Emphasizes high-speed printing and enhanced automation. DEK printers are recognized for their flexibility, high throughput, and real-time data monitoring capabilities.
4.2 Applications and Market Position
- MPM: Generally preferred for applications requiring high precision and reliability, such as automotive and industrial electronics. MPM printers are known for their accuracy and consistency in challenging environments.
- DEK: Often chosen for high-volume production and applications where speed and flexibility are essential. DEK printers are well-suited for environments where rapid production and adaptability are key factors.
- 4.3 Maximum substrate stability reduces printing defects
- Having a solid and even support for the substrate is a key to a high yield and more efficiency in screen and stencil printing. ASMPT offers a broad spectrum of custom-tailored, automatic and modular toolings and carrier systems for virtually any production requirement.
- Improved performance
- More efficiency
- Reduced costs
- More capabilities
- Technological leadership
- 4.4 WORKS Optimization
- Intelligent process optimization along the entire SMT line
- As an inline expert system, the WORKS Optimization application in the WORKS Software Suite from ASMPT optimizes the processes along the entire SMT line with an ambitious goal: achieve zero DPMO (defects per million opportunities).
- In addition to the solder paste printing process, the Printing, Placement and Quality Viewer modules now also cover the placement process and work with third-party SPI and AOI systems based on IPC-2591 CFX, the global standard for industrial communication.
Choose Pre-Owned Equipment (POE) from ASMPT and benefit from tested quality at attractive prices with short delivery times. Our trade-in programs guarantee you fair compensation for equipment you no longer need. All POE machines are fully refurbished on demand and always carefully checked before they place components in their new home.
During a total overhaul, all defective or worn components are systematically replaced with new original parts. In the case of placement machines, for example, this ranges from the conveyor system to the gantries to the placement heads.
- Replacement of all worn parts with original parts
- Software update
- Visual overhaul of the machine housing
- Four-hour function test
- Detailed acceptance certificate
- Guaranteed functionality and precision
- Short delivery time
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly
- Full one-year warranty that’s valid worldwide
- If you don’t attach much importance to your pre-owned equipment’s exterior, you can save money by ordering a machine that’s been refurbished only internally.
- Replacement of all worn parts with original parts
- Software update
- Cost savings without sacrificing functionality
- Four-hour function test
- Detailed acceptance certificate
- Guaranteed functionality and precision
- Short delivery time
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly
- Warranty with no time specification
5. Conclusion
MPM and DEK printers represent two of the leading technologies in the field of solder paste printing. Both brands offer advanced solutions tailored to different aspects of PCB manufacturing, from precision and reliability to speed and flexibility. The choice between MPM and DEK typically depends on specific production needs, including volume, speed, and application requirements.
The continuous advancements made by MPM and DEK contribute to the evolution of electronics manufacturing, setting benchmarks for quality and performance in PCB production. As technology progresses, both companies are likely to continue driving innovation and enhancing the capabilities of solder paste printers, further shaping the future of electronics assembly.
In summary, MPM and DEK printers are integral to the electronics manufacturing industry, each offering unique strengths and capabilities. Understanding their technologies and applications helps manufacturers select the right equipment for their specific needs, ensuring high-quality and efficient production processes.
