Programme promises faster access to planar arrays

A lean manufacturing programme aims to reduce lead times of planar arrays by a third.

UK-based passive component manufacturer Syfer Technology is introducing a lean manufacturing programme aimed at reducing lead times of planar arrays by a third.

Representing a significant investment, this initiative forms a part of the company's six sigma quality programme, currently under way, with the overall objective of reducing the "costs of ownership" for its customers.

Syfer's lean manufacturing programme will be looking at all elements of waste, including time, within its manufacturing processes, with the goal of reducing the lead time on planar arrays by 2 weeks.

Ron Inglis, Syfer's Manufacturing Manager comments: "This programme will change the way we do things at Syfer and will create a major competitive advantage for us, and our customers, in the market place".

Planar arrays are complex EMI filtering devices, used in filtered connectors, containing combinations of capacitors, ground lines and feedthroughs.

A single array can contain up to 155 capacitors, in up to four different capacitance values, with a choice of dielectric, planform and voltage rating.

It is truly the most complex device within the multilayer capacitor industry, and is typically a custom designed, application specific part.

Syfer has been producing planar arrays for more than 15 years and, today, is the world leader in this bespoke market.

They are widely used in civil and military aircraft, and space and satellite programs.

Indeed, Syfer planar arrays are the only devices of their type approved for use in the International Space Station.

Yet the company is keen to protect its market leadership position.

This programme of continuous improvement will help improve yields, reduce waste and reduce costs, giving its specialist customers the benefits of standard commercial advantages, such as lower price and shorter lead-times.

Chris Noade, Syfer's Marketing Manager added: "Being able to deliver fast to our customers will ensure we are designed in first for all new space and aerospace programmes".

"We have long been regarded as the technical leader in this industry and the 'lean program' will also make us the commercial leader".

Syfer's planar arrays are available in a range of capacitance values, from 47pF to 4nF (C0G) and 250pF to 600nF (X7R).

They can be supplied to suit a broad range of connector types, including the popular nano-D, micro-D and sub-D types, as well as circular and ARINC type connectors.

Syfer's innovative and unique "wet stack" manufacturing process, minimises shrinkage and enables the production of both very small and very large planar arrays.

A stress-free component is produced with mechanical precision, enabling a filter assembly to withstand the most rigorous of electrical specifications.

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