SMT Lab formalises knowledge-based services

The expertise of Universal Instruments' SMT Laboratory is now available on factory floors worldwide, through the laboratory's new process audit service.

The expertise of Universal Instruments' SMT Laboratory is now available on factory floors worldwide, through the laboratory's new process audit service.

The lab's ability to quickly optimise processes for surface mount and advanced packaging assembly is valuable to OEMs and outsource businesses seeking to maximise the productivity of increasingly complex processes.

The results from a Universal Instruments process audit can be used directly to reach targets agreed at the beginning of the audit.

The lab has established a structure which each process audit follows, ensuring consistency and providing the best possible foundation from which the audit can successfully deliver the agreed results.

Each audit is performed as a consultative process, and the structure includes a review of the results from each stage and scope to agree objectives for the next step.

Beginning with a comprehensive review of the process and existing yield and reliability issues, the results of the initial process audit are documented and presented for further discussion.

Recommendations arising from the process audit are then implemented subject to customer agreement.

The improvements achieved are measured and documented ahead of presentation of a final report.

Common objectives for a process audit include increasing end of line yield, reducing labour and materials costs due to scrap and rework, enhancing repeatability or product quality, or reducing assembly time and process steps leading to savings in utilities, capital equipment costs, maintenance and work in progress costs.

An audit may also establish an accurate benchmark for a continuous improvement programme, as well as highlighting potential future enhancements.

"Universal's new process audit service translates the SMT Lab's knowledge into better process performance for our customers", said George Westby, Director of the SMT Lab.

"Modern manufacturers simply do not have time to study their processes and develop ways to improve throughput, end of line yield, or productivity".

"Since the Universal SMT Lab has been active in developing many of the processes in use today, we are well positioned to advise how to implement, optimise and troubleshoot mature and cutting-edge assembly processes".

The Universal Instruments process audit service leverages the company's investment in advanced analysis equipment, as well as the knowledge built up through participation in international research programmes.

Laboratory facilities include production simulation, rework and test platforms, analytical instruments including scanning microscopes and precision X-ray and optical inspection, and equipment for accurate characterisation of processes and materials.

Universal is active in many research initiatives including the Area Array Consortium's investigations into advanced packaging styles and assembly techniques, as well as numerous collaborations with research bodies and academic institutions operating at the leading edge of assembly and packaging technology.

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