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Altus Supports Cambertronics’ SMT Process Upgrade with Koh Young SPI

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 09:00:00 GMT

New SPI alongside the Team

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has supported Cambertronics, an ambitious contract electronics manufacturer, in upgrading its SMT production with the installation of a Koh Young Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) system.

Looking to further enhance first-pass yield and reduce the chances of costly rework, Cambertronics partnered with Altus to implement the advanced Koh Young KY8030-3 3D inspection solution.

The KY8030-3 system features dual-projection 3D technology that eliminates shadow-related measurement errors, real-time PCB warp compensation, and delivers inspection speeds of 91.2 cm² per second. These capabilities enable precise volumetric measurements of solder paste deposits, allowing for the detection of issues such as bridging, insufficient solder, and misalignment at an early stage.

Jasper Whitefield, Electronics Manufacturing at Cambertronics, said: “It is exciting to get the Koh Young unit into our facility, a significant enhancement to ensuring the highest quality output for our customers. More importantly, it allows us to keep our first-time right as high as possible, minimising time spent on rework and enabling us to focus on value-added internal activities.

“In a competitive market, we strive to achieve maximum success, and making these strategic investments is crucial to reaching that goal. We had heard a lot about Koh Young beforehand and their market-leading position, so having this technology in our facility shows our intent to maintain those high standards.”

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “We are always pleased to welcome another Koh Young user, especially one that recognises the critical role of SPI in process control. Unlike AOI, which detects defects after they occur, SPI helps address root causes, making it a vital investment. Cambertronics’ decision to select the KY8030-3 was a very astute one.”

With Altus Group’s support and Koh Young’s cutting-edge technology, Cambertronics continues to enhance its quality and process control capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the electronics manufacturing industry.

For further information, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group Expands Aftersales Team to Its Largest Size to Date

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:48:15 GMT

It is all about support excellence!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, has expanded its Aftersales operation to its largest size to date with the appointment of new engineer, David Wissam, to bolster coverage across the South East of the UK. The appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in service capability as its customer base continues to grow.

David brings with him a strong background in customer experience and manufacturing support. He most recently worked at Paxton Access, a well-established electronics manufacturer, giving him first-hand insight into the realities of production environments and the support expectations of electronics manufacturers.

Mike Todd, Aftersales Manager at Altus Group, said: “It is great to see David joining the team and bringing his experience and energy into the business. Having come from a significant UK manufacturer, he understands customer challenges first-hand and can apply that knowledge to ensure we continue to support our customers to the highest level. We are proud of the size and experience of our pre-sales and Aftersales teams, and David’s appointment further strengthens that capability.”

David Wissam said: “I am really pleased to be joining Altus and excited to begin my journey with the team. I have been a customer for many years and have always admired the company not just for its equipment portfolio, but for the strength and knowledge of its people. Altus has clear momentum, and I am looking forward to supporting both new projects and the existing customers the team works with.”

David becomes the third team member to join the Aftersales department in the second half of the year, taking the team to its largest size to date. This expansion reflects Altus' focus on building engineers with experience across complete manufacturing lines, enabling more effective on-site support and practical, process-led problem solving.

The Aftersales team has grown in response to sustained business development over recent years. Altus has added more than 100 customers along the South Coast in the past five years, as manufacturers increasingly look for long-term partners offering both advanced equipment portfolios and dependable service. In response, Altus has prioritised local engineering coverage to deliver faster, more resilient support while reducing inefficiencies associated with extensive national travel.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus to Showcase Advanced Manufacturing Solutions at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:30:00 GMT

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Altus Group, a leading distributor of advanced electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, will return to Southern Manufacturing & Electronics from 3-5 February 2026 with a strong line-up of advanced process technologies from leading global suppliers. The exhibition remains one of the most significant events for the electronics manufacturing sector, bringing together equipment innovators, engineers and production specialists from across the industry.

Altus will present a selection of systems that reflect the company’s commitment to improving quality, efficiency, and process control. Demonstrations will include Koh Young’s 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) technology, which delivers exceptional precision and data-driven insight for quality assurance. YJ Links’ conveyoring will highlight the next step in intelligent line integration, while PVA’s latest conformal coating and dispensing equipment will demonstrate consistent performance across complex applications.

Visitors will also be able to find out more about ASSCON’s vapour phase soldering technology, designed for high-reliability production, and see Scienscope’s newest innovation, the AXC-830 X-ray component counter, making its UK debut at the event. Completing the line-up is the Essemtec FOX 2 modular pick-and-place platform, offering the flexibility and scalability required for high-mix production environments.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “Southern Manufacturing remains a key date in the Altus calendar. It’s the perfect platform to engage directly with manufacturers and show how the right technology can transform production. For 2026, we’ve chosen a cross-section of solutions that address real customer challenges, from inspection accuracy and process traceability to automation and throughput.”

Visitors can meet the Altus team on Stand J80 from 3–5 February 2026 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. If you would like to arrange a meeting at the show, please get in touch with the Altus team in advance, or simply visit the stand to speak with a specialist during the event.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

How Many Zones is Needed on my Reflow Oven?

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

7,8,9, heated length? What are the common questions we hear on most projects.....

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, has reported a rise in enquiries from manufacturers looking for guidance on specifying convection reflow ovens for SMT production lines. One of the most common early considerations is how many heating zones are required, a decision that can influence throughput, footprint and long-term process capability.

As manufacturers compare available systems, Altus highlights that zone count alone does not provide a full picture of reflow performance. Differences in mechanical build between oven suppliers mean that systems with identical zone numbers can behave very differently in production. Heated length and cooling length therefore offer a more reliable indication of the usable thermal process window and achievable conveyor speed.

In the Heller platforms supported by Altus, configurations range from compact systems with heated lengths of around 1.3 m in five zones and 0.4 m of cooling, through to larger platforms offering 4.49 m of heated length across 13 zones with 1.66 m of cooling. Seven, eight and nine-zone models, including the Heller 1707, 1826 and 1809, remain popular choices due to their balance of footprint, performance and investment level.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: “Reflow ovens can remain in service for two decades or more, so getting the specification right at the outset has long-term impact. Decisions around heated length, cooling capability and the operating window of the oven need to be made with a clear view of both current assemblies and those likely to be introduced later. Our focus is on helping manufacturers make well-informed decisions early in the project, so their investment supports production for many years.”

Throughput expectations continue to be a major factor in oven selection. As broad guidance, a seven-zone system may support takt times in the region of 45–60 seconds, while eight- and nine-zone systems typically achieve 30–45 seconds. In certain applications, optimised nine-zone ovens can operate below 30 seconds. Altus advises that these figures depend heavily on product design and must be validated through structured profiling.

To support this, the company recommends profiling representative assemblies using an external profiler such as Solderstar. Running these boards across different oven lengths and zone configurations helps establish where performance limits lie. Tools such as Solderstar’s Auto Seeker can also assist in assessing conveyor-speed headroom while maintaining the required thermal profile.

Altus has additionally seen increased interest in dual-lane reflow systems, particularly for manufacturers aiming to boost capacity without expanding their footprint. A dual-lane configuration can provide double the reflow capacity with the right board-size balance, and with appropriate upstream and downstream shuttles, can be integrated into production lines originally configured for single-lane operation.

Altus Group brings high-speed vacuum soldering oven to UK and Ireland

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:45:00 GMT

Faster than ever before

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics production equipment in the UK and Ireland, is highlighting Heller Industries’ innovative Short-Cycle Vacuum Reflow Oven (SCVR) as interest in high volume vacuum soldering grows across the region.

Vacuum reflow soldering helps to eliminate voids in solder joints, dramatically improving reliability in demanding applications, but traditional systems have been too slow for high-volume production. Heller's SCVR introduces a patented multi-stage conveyor system that reduces board transfer time in and out of the vacuum chamber, directly addressing the primary limitation in vacuum cycle times. This innovation enables manufacturers to increase units per hour (UPH) by up to 100% while maintaining the superior solder joint reliability that vacuum reflow delivers.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: “Electronics manufacturers are increasingly looking to vacuum reflow to improve reliability in complex assemblies, but adoption has been limited by cycle time bottlenecks. The SCVR’s design makes high-volume, high-reliability production more practical than ever before, giving engineers confidence that they can meet demanding process requirements without sacrificing throughput or quality.”

The SCVR features three infrared heating panels within the vacuum chamber that optimise heating profiles for solder paste. Real-time temperature control delivers ±0.5°C accuracy at the PCB level, ensuring consistent results across production runs. The system includes Heller's HELLER365 platform for process monitoring and Industry 4.0 integration, enabling real-time tracking of temperature curves, vacuum pressure values, and board-level data.

The system's modular, open-architecture design simplifies upgrades, maintenance, and cleaning which is critical for maintaining uptime in high-reliability production environments. The SCVR is designed for applications where void-free solder joints are critical, including automotive power modules (IGBT/SiC packaging), RF components for telecommunications, Mini/Micro LED assembly, and high-density interconnect (HDI) soldering.

By bringing Heller’s SCVR to the UK and Ireland, Altus Group continues to support electronics manufacturers with advanced assembly solutions that address both reliability and productivity demands in an increasingly competitive market.

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Helps Concurrent Technologies Plc. Scale Production Capacity with Advanced Inline Vapour Phase Technology

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:01 GMT

Inline Vapour Phase

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has successfully supplied Concurrent Technologies Plc (Concurrent), a designer and manufacturer of mission-critical embedded computing solutions, with their second ASSCON vapour phase soldering system, the innovative VP2100-100 inline unit.

Following the proven success of their ASSCON VP6000 batch system, Concurrent has invested in this latest technology to scale production capacity while maintaining the exceptional soldering quality their applications demand. The use of vapour phase technology for Concurrent is critical because it provides an inert and uniform heating environment for the most complex board requirements. This uniformity ensures quality soldering even in the face of large and heavy components alongside small and light ones which they see in many key variants they manufacture. In their specific application, this included soldering processors weighing 98 grams with 4,500 balls alongside typical SMT componentry which is incredibly challenging to do in another reflow process type.

The ASSCON VP2100-100 is a high-performance inline vapour phase system designed for higher-volume applications. With its generous 750 x 620mm soldering chamber, the system can process multiple PCBs simultaneously while delivering oxygen-free heat transfer with dynamic profiling and sensor-based gradient control, ensuring reproducible process conditions that prevent overheating, component damage, or PCB delamination.

Ian Gardiner, Process Engineer at Concurrent said: "We're very excited to have the new ASSCON VP2100-100 at our facility. Having previously purchased the VP6000, we were already familiar with ASSCON's capabilities and trusted their technology to meet our needs. This latest investment focuses on increasing our capacity while expanding automation within a proven vapour phase process.

"Given the complexity of our products and their intricate designs, vapour phase reflow is clearly the optimal solution for achieving superior reflow performance with minimal voiding by providing uniform heat in an inert atmosphere. The VP2100's inline capability perfectly addresses our throughput requirements, providing a true inline system that eliminates the need for special carriers or manual loading operations."

The VP2100-100 offers multiple PCB loading configurations with component heights up to 60mm. The system delivers 70% lower energy consumption compared to conventional reflow systems, with rapid 30-minute start-up times and full traceability capabilities, which are critical features for high-reliability applications.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "Concurrent is a very exciting OEM in the UK, building highly relevant products that are in strong demand. It's always rewarding when a customer invests in a repeat machine for their production facility, it signals both their business success and the proven value of the technology.

“ASSCON has been a true pioneer in inline vapour phase technology for higher-volume applications, and this Concurrent installation is part of a growing number of ASSCON deployments across the UK. We're excited to see more installations planned in the coming months."

For more information on ASSCON vapour phase soldering systems and Altus Group's complete range of electronics manufacturing equipment, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Partners with Sellectronics to Enhance Conformal Coating Capabilities with PVA Delta 8 System

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:30:02 GMT

More Investment in Cornwall!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has furthered their partnership with Sellectronics, a Contract Electronics Manufacturer, to install the PVA Delta 8 system. This strategic investment will enable Sellectronics to meet the growing demand for precise conformal coating and fluid dispensing capabilities, ensuring enhanced product protection, reliability, and compliance with stringent industry standards.

The trust between Altus and Sellectronics, built across many successful prior projects, made Altus the clear partner for this important investment. Sellectronics placed significant focus on not just the machine capabilities but the local support that Altus provides—an area where they excel. With Altus now appointed as the exclusive distributor for PVA, one of the world’s leading dispensing technology providers, Sellectronics knew they were choosing both cutting-edge technology and a trusted partner to support their growth.

The PVA Delta 8 system, selected for its flexibility and precision, offers a range of advanced features, including a three-axis motion platform for increased rigidity and durability, closed-loop process control for consistent quality, and support for multiple dispensing applications. The system’s servo-controlled four-axis motion allows for complex application geometries, making it ideal for the diverse needs of Sellectronics’ customer base.

Jon Hurrell, Managing Director of Sellectronics, said: “The investment in the Delta 8 system is a critical step for us as we grow alongside our customers. We have high ambitions and making investments for the future will help us realise them. With Altus’ local support and the advanced capabilities of the Delta 8, we can deliver high-quality, reliable solutions while maintaining efficient and competitive operations.”

Charles Lower, Sales Manager at Altus Group, added: “The strong relationship we’ve built with Sellectronics is a testament to the value we place on providing not just the best technology, but also the exceptional local support our customers need. We’re proud to continue supporting Sellectronics as they deliver cutting-edge solutions to their clients.”

The installation of the Delta 8 system is part of Sellectronics’ broader strategy to enhance its capabilities and meet the evolving demands of the electronics manufacturing market. With this investment, the company is well-positioned for ongoing growth, continuing to deliver exceptional value and high-quality solutions to their diverse client base.

Altus Adds Breakthrough Automated Inline Laser Depaneling System to its Line-Up

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:30:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is introducing the LPKF CuttingMaster 2240 Cx, an advanced automated laser depaneling system designed to be fully inline, to maximise efficiency and reduce costs in high-volume PCB production.

Developed by LPKF Laser and Electronics SE, the CuttingMaster 2240 Cx represents a major advancement in laser depaneling technology. The system eliminates the need for circulating workpiece carriers, simplifying automation and lowering operational costs while maintaining LPKF’s hallmark precision and reliability. Its integrated clamping device and product-specific fork handling and unloading capabilities streamline the depaneling process and reduce equipment complexity, enabling manufacturers to achieve higher throughput without additional floor space or capital investment.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "The CuttingMaster 2240 Cx is an impressive example of how automation continues to advance in electronics manufacturing. By removing circulating carriers and integrating intelligent handling, LPKF has developed a solution that provides both technical excellence and operational efficiency. In practical terms, it means that the CuttingMaster 2240Cx can be placed inline without the pain point of carrier handling. We are proud to support its introduction to the UK and Irish market and to help our customers adopt technology that drives productivity and process reliability. We already have customers utilising the Cx design as the initial stage of a final assembly process combined with collaborative robots."

The system operates as either a standalone unit or as part of a fully integrated production line. Its LPKF CircuitPro software automatically generates optimal process data from layout files, ensuring consistent cutting quality and repeatable performance. Compatibility with robotic handling systems and standard SMEMA and OPC UA interfaces allows for easy integration with existing automation solutions, providing manufacturers with a flexible, scalable approach to production line design. Combined with a powerful laser source and advanced Tensor Technology, the CuttingMaster 2240 Cx delivers precise full contour or tab cut depaneling while maintaining a compact footprint.

The system will be launched at Productronica 2025 in Munich, where it will be demonstrated as part of the Fraunhofer IZM production line. Visitors will have the opportunity to see its automated capabilities in action and understand how it addresses the growing demand for high-performance, cost-efficient depaneling solutions in the electronics manufacturing sector.

Altus Group Expands Service Team with Addition of Experienced Engineer

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 08:30:00 GMT

New Engineer Bolsters Midlands & South Support

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has appointed a new Applications and Service Engineer to its team, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to exceptional customer support and aftersales service.

Denis Popilian joins Altus from Strip Tinning Automotive, where he spent eight years as a Prototype Technician, gaining extensive experience in PCBA assembly, including SMT, THT, and robotic engineering. His technical expertise and industry experience will be leveraged to support customers across the South and Midlands, from his base in Birmingham.

Mike Todd, Operations Director at Altus Group, said: "We are delighted to welcome Denis to the Altus service team. His sharp technical skills and industry experience make him an ideal addition to our growing team.

“2025 has been a busy year for our aftersales operations, and with Denis joining alongside other recent additions, our capabilities are at their largest yet. This growth allows us not only to respond more efficiently to customer needs but also to be proactive in areas such as pre-sales, case management, customer training, and professional services. Denis’ expertise will help us continue raising the standard of support our customers receive.”

Altus Group has strategically invested in expanding its aftersales resource pool to ensure rapid response to customer requirements, reduce downtime, and streamline service operations. By adding high-calibre technical talent like Denis, Altus is strengthening its ability to deliver both reactive and proactive solutions, maintaining its reputation for exceptional support.

Denis will undergo an intensive training and familiarisation programme to fully integrate into Altus’ service operations, ensuring he can provide customers with the expertise and support expected from a market-leading service team.

Altus Supports Datalink Electronics with Advanced Selective Soldering Solution to Boost Manufacturing Efficiency

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Datalink Electronics has partnered with Altus Group to integrate a cutting-edge automated soldering solution, enhancing its production capabilities and reinforcing its strategic focus on quality, automation, and scalability.

The partnership sees Altus providing comprehensive support for the installation of the Inertec Cube 460 selective soldering system at Datalink Electronics, a respected contract electronics manufacturer with over 40 years of industry experience serving customers ranging from multinationals to high-growth start-ups.

Recognising the challenges facing UK CEMs, including rising labour costs and skilled operator shortages, Altus leveraged its technical expertise and comprehensive support network to guide Datalink through a thorough evaluation process. After assessing various selective soldering platforms and robotic options, Datalink selected Altus as their trusted partner, citing the company's strong technical capabilities and reliable support infrastructure.

Under the leadership of Aran, Business Development Director at Datalink, Datalink Electronics is focused on driving automation and process improvements to meet increasing demand while maintaining quality and service standards. Altus's solution directly supports these objectives through the deployment of the Inertec Cube 460 system - a compact, modular batch selective soldering platform designed for high-mix, low-to-medium volume production.

The system automates complex soldering tasks traditionally performed by skilled operators, featuring programmable soldering angles, quick-change nozzles, precise microdrop fluxing, advanced quartz pre-heating, and RT-Console software for offline programming, traceability, and real-time warpage correction. The Cube 460 supports both leaded and lead-free soldering processes, ensuring flexibility across industries.

Shane Nooney, Production Engineer at Datalink Electronics, said: “What a good result! The support from both Altus and Inertec throughout this project has been excellent, and we can't fault the quality of the technical validation or the effort involved. Ultimately, the machine and its performance spoke for itself, but knowing we had a strong partner in place for after-installation support was a major factor in our decision.”

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "I'm really pleased with this project and delighted for the team at Datalink. We've been building a trusted relationship for some time and waiting for the right opportunity, and I'm very happy with how the process went, and of course, the end result. It's great to see another Inertec 460 out in the field; we're clearly building some real momentum.”

The collaboration is expected to further enhance Datalink’s process control and throughput, supporting their wider growth strategy, while reinforcing Altus's reputation as the go-to partner for advanced manufacturing solutions in the UK and Ireland electronics sector.

Altus Group Adds Scienscope's Newest Flagship X-ray Inspection System to its Portfolio

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:48:27 GMT

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Altus Group, a leading distributor of advanced electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland, will be adding the Xspection 6600 to its inspection portfolio as its flagship Scienscope offering, supporting Scienscope as they unveil the system at Productronica 2025. The system's advanced feature enables allow Altus to cater to applications that need a stronger penetration, larger magnification and a larger board size, representing a significant leap forward in non-destructive testing capabilities for high-density PCB and advanced package inspection.

Designed for manufacturers requiring the highest levels of detail and reliability, the Xspection 6600 unit features a powerful 160 kV open X-ray tube with 1000 μA current and a spot size down to 1 μm, delivering exceptional imaging precision. With geometric magnification of 200x, a 65° tilt range, and a ⌀890 mm inspection table (circumference 2798 mm), the system provides comprehensive analysis capabilities across a wide range of board and component sizes.

Joe Booth, CEO at Altus Group, said: "We have had a great history with Scienscope and have been very effective over the years with many installations locally. While most customer needs are met by the Xspection 3000 (a 110-130kV closed tube unit), the Xspection 6600 addresses a real need in the market for some customers for deeper, more accurate inspection of increasingly complex assemblies. The combination of high-power X-ray imaging and larger magnification gives our customers unprecedented insight into their products. We're excited to see it showcased at Productronica and look forward to supporting its introduction to the UK and Irish markets."

To further enhance inspection performance, Scienscope has integrated self-learning AI software for faster interpretation, fewer false calls, and simplified programming. The enhanced BGA tool specifically reduces false alarms, while AI-driven image processing supports manufacturers looking to increase productivity and consistency in complex inspection tasks.

The Xspection 6600 will make its debut at Productronica 2025 in Munich. To find out more or to make an appointment to view the new systems contact Altus, www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Group Strengthens Leadership with New Operations Director

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:45:26 GMT

Mike's 5th promotion since joining Altus!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has promoted Mike Todd to Operations Director. Mike has been with the company since 2015 and takes on the role in recognition of his outstanding contribution to aftersales and customer support.

Mike joined Altus as a Spares and Logistics Manager and has progressed through five promotions over the past decade. His new role reflects Altus’ commitment to developing internal talent and delivering exceptional service across its customer base. He now leads the Aftersales and Central Team, supporting customers throughout the lifetime of their machine ownership.

Joe Booth, CEO at Altus Group, said: “Mike thoroughly deserves this promotion, and I’m delighted he has this milestone to celebrate in his tenth year with the company. Aftersales support is complex and often pressurised, especially during breakdown situations, but high-quality support is critical for our reputation in the market. With Mike leading the team, we’ve built a reputation as a safe pair of hands, responsive when needed and proactive when not. I’m really excited to see how the team continues to develop from this strong foundation; we’ve never been in a better position to succeed.”

Aftersales and ongoing customer support are critical to Altus’s long-term success. Over the last five years, the company has focused on increasing the value of its support services while enhancing sales and marketing processes. Altus recognises that excellent support can be as significant a differentiator as the technical capabilities of its machines.

Recent milestones include rolling out a customer CRM, hiring experienced and skilled staff, merging technical teams, developing professional services, expanding service contracts, improving customer satisfaction, and maintaining ISO accreditations.

Altus has ambitious plans to further enhance its support capabilities through new hires, new services, and initiatives aimed at delivering more value to customers. Mike’s promotion reflects the company’s commitment to delivering excellent pre and post-sales support, and ensuring customers get the most from their equipment.

Altus Group Introduces the ASSCON VP 2200 for High-Performance PCB Assembly

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 06:45:00 GMT

Dual High Speed Vapour Phase Reflow

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is now offering the ASSCON VP 2200 vapour phase reflow system, the first dual-lane inline VP unit available in the region. The VP 2200 addresses the growing demand for high-throughput, thermally challenging PCBAs in military, medical, and industrial applications. The system delivers faster reflow processing, greater flexibility, and lower maintenance costs, building on the success of ASSCON’s VP 2100 launched in 2021.

The VP 2200 was developed as a single, flexible system platform to meet customer needs for speed, flexibility, and performance while keeping costs low. Configurable in single-lane or dual-lane mode, and with or without vacuum, it replaces four previous inline systems with one fully retrofittable solution. Upgrade paths and retrofit options ensure the platform can evolve with customer requirements.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "ASSCON is a prime example of a supplier focused on customer value and long-term horizons. By concentrating on a single process, they are pushing the technology to places it hasn’t been before. They are already the leading brand, and this type of investment in research and development will only strengthen their position.

"Vapour phase reflow is highly popular in the UK and Ireland because of the complex, high-technology PCBAs we specialise in, particularly in the military, industrial, and medical sectors, all of which have seen strong growth recently. For some applications and volumes, higher throughput is crucial, and the ability to use the VP 2200 in dual-lane mode, effectively doubling what was previously possible, will have a major positive impact. I can’t wait to see the unit again at Productronica, where ASSCON will officially launch the new platform."

In dual-lane mode, the VP 2200 accepts boards from single-lane upstream production and uses a modular shuttle to double throughput, making it the first dual-lane vapour phase unit on the market. Maintenance is simplified, with consistent spare parts, easily accessible components, and reduced service effort.

The system features ASSCON’s permanent filter system, which reduces GALDEN filter change time by 90%. The filters are positioned inside the cooling zone without a housing, and the simplified design maintains full effectiveness while halving the number of parts. Flux management has also been enhanced to improve operational uptime. The software platform and HMI provide a consistent, intuitive operating and programming experience across both batch and inline systems.

Tobias Tuffentsammer, Head of Sales at ASSCON, added: "We believe that innovation is key to staying at the forefront of the vapour phase process and, more broadly, to capturing a larger share of the overall reflow market. We have been listening to our customers and know they are very satisfied with vapour phase technology, but many face pressures to handle high volumes, which demands shorter reflow tact times.

"This new platform will be revolutionary for the throughput capacity we can offer customers, while also simplifying our internal processes and providing numerous advantages for both ASSCON and our clients. Thanks to economies of scale, we can deliver this level of innovation at a competitive price point, further enhancing customer ROI."

For more information about the VP 2200 or to arrange a demonstration, please contact Altus Group, who will be happy to provide details and organise a viewing.

For more information, visit: www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Presents Scienscope’s New Smart Reel Tower

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 06:45:00 GMT

There is a new storage tower in town!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is showcasing the latest development from Scienscope as the company extends its component management portfolio with a new Smart Reel Tower.

The Smart Reel Tower can be configured with or without humidity control and complements Scienscope’s widely adopted smart racking solutions. With several OEMs stepping away from this market in recent years, Scienscope brings proven expertise and a strong track record to storage tower technology.

Adding to a portfolio that already includes goods-in scanning, X-ray counting, and smart racking for reels, stencils and feeders, the new system completes Scienscope’s offering and gives manufacturers access to the most comprehensive component management ecosystem available. As with all Scienscope solutions, integration is a core strength. With thousands of global installations, the company has extensive experience connecting to ERP and MES systems, ensuring seamless machine-to-machine communication and reliable process control.

Anthony Oh, Technical Project Manager at Altus, said: “This is really exciting for us in the UK because we often get requests where humidity control is important for the customer, and smart racking cannot scratch that itch. With this new Scienscope Smart Reel Tower solution, we immediately can become a preferred supplier to many customers that are familiar with how well Scienscope performs in the other component management processes. Given our history of integrating across a whole manner of pick and place and MES solutions, we should be the most flexible integrator in the market.”

The Smart Reel Tower combines high capacity and throughput with a compact footprint, making it suitable for both SMT line-side and warehouse environments. Its dual-deck storage design accommodates up to 2,000 reels, while the dual-channel entry and exit system processes a minimum of 600 reels per hour with six-second cycle times. The unit is also AGV compatible, making it fully Industry 4.0 ready.

Adrian Radu, European Sales Manager at Scienscope, said: “This unit has been a long time coming but I am really pleased that it has arrived. We have been very successful with smart racking, but the Smart Reel Tower adds another string to our bow and completes our product offering. It means we can meet more customer needs without limitation, even when humidity control is a priority. I am looking forward to showcasing the unit in Europe later this year and seeing the first installations.”

The new Smart Reel Tower will be unveiled at Productronica 2025, with demonstrations also planned in the UK and Europe. Together, Altus and Scienscope are providing manufacturers with advanced component management solutions designed to improve efficiency, safeguard quality and prepare operations for the next stage of automation.

If you would like further information or to make an appointment to view the system at Productronica contact Altus-www.altusgroup.co.uk

New 3D AOI Inspection System Drives Efficiency and Precision for PCBA Specialist

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:15:00 GMT

Alan Anderson Invest in Full 3D

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, has supplied Alan Anderson Manufacturing, a growing electronic manufacturing services provider, with a state-of-the-art 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) system. This advanced solution is designed to align with their increasing production needs, enhancing inspection precision, streamlining efficiency, and further strengthening their commitment to quality control.

As AA Manufacturing’s operations have grown significantly, they recognised the need for more advanced inspection technology to keep up with the increasing complexity of their products. After consulting with Altus for expert guidance, they decided to invest in the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ 3D AOI system. While their previous system, a benchtop AOI had performed well, this new system allows them to meet the higher demands for inspection precision and efficiency, ensuring their continued commitment to the highest level of quality control while streamlining production processes and ultimately increasing capability.

Phil Bray, Managing Director at Alan Anderson Manufacturing, said: "The reputation of Koh Young and Altus in the market is clearly outstanding; a glance at their recent news and extensive partner list confirms they are a stand out in the technology. For us, the decision to invest in the market’s leading 3D AOI solution is driven by a commitment to quality, not simply to catch non-conformities, but to equip our team with the tools needed to measure deviations from perfection and ultimately drive yield improvements. Our customer expect best in class, and that is what we are committed to deliver."

The Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ offers fully automated 3D inspection with advanced features such as high-speed processing and precise SPC analysis, providing 100% inspection coverage up to 25mm in full 3D metrology. It ensures micron-level precision across all components, while integrated KSMART software enables real-time data analysis, helping optimize production processes and improve yield.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, commented, “Alan Anderson Manufacturing is a dynamic company making smart investments to drive growth and have taken the market by storm over the last years. We’re very pleased to support them with another successful project and their new 3D AOI solution, which will no doubt strengthen their offering to their customers, and position in the UK CEM market.”

With this cutting-edge inspection technology in place, Alan Anderson Manufacturing is now well-positioned to scale its operations while maintaining its commitment to exceptional quality control standards.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Hosts Back-to-Back Conformal Coating User Days Following High Demand

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:15:00 GMT

Conformal Coating Day Speakers

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has successfully concluded its inaugural 2025 User Day, which was extended to two days due to overwhelming demand for the conformal coating process and inspection solutions event. Both sessions at the company's Redditch headquarters reached full capacity within a week of registration opening.

The event brought together industry suppliers and manufacturers to showcase the latest developments in conformal coating technologies and address the growing interest in bringing these processes in-house. Live demonstrations and expert presentations were provided by PVA, Koh Young, Actnano, Humiseal, Kolb, and Plasmatreat.

Attendees experienced hands-on demonstrations of key technologies including the PVA Delta 8 robotic system for selective conformal coating and dispensing, Neptune C+ from Koh Young for 3D in-line dispensing process inspection, and Kolb's PCBA cleaning solutions.

The strong response reflects increasing industry interest in conformal coating solutions, driven by various factors including increased military production requirements, rising outsourcing costs, and higher staffing expenses that are encouraging manufacturers to bring coating processes in-house.

This trend is reflected in Altus Group's business performance, with the company achieving record PVA system sales in 2024 and already on track to surpass those figures in the first half of 2025.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We are aiming to go beyond simply providing our customers with machines - we want to be the trusted industry partner able to deliver thoughtful pre-sales advice and comprehensive production solutions. It's about providing honest pros and cons with proof through real application work, rather than just sales chatter. Conformal coating is the perfect example of where our holistic and educational approach sets us apart, because bringing this technology in-house can have significant pitfalls if not properly managed.

“The event itself and having to put on an extra day due to demand has been terrific. The feedback from suppliers was excellent because of very engaged customers, and the feedback from customers because we covered so many angles has really made all the prep worth it. I am looking forward to the next event soon!"

The event attracted both companies new to conformal coating and those looking to upgrade their existing processes. Altus generated a lot of new leads and received positive feedback from attendees.

To receive news on upcoming events and industry developments, companies can sign up to the Altus newsletter at www.altusgroup.co.uk/news.

Altus Enhances Through-Hole Inspection at Kentec Electronics

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 06:15:00 GMT

Brand New 2D AOI

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics manufacturing industry, has partnered with Kentec Electronics Ltd., a UK-based OEM of life safety control panels, to deliver a new standard in through-hole inspection using Magic-ray Technology's advanced AOI solutions.

From its Dartford facility, Kentec designs and manufactures fire detection and extinguishant systems supplied to over 90 countries. While many electronics manufacturers focus on SMT automation, Kentec continues to invest in through-hole technology (THT), a critical element in its product designs. As part of its long-term production strategy, the company looked to enhance inspection capabilities and expand automated processes.

Dave Humphrey, Production Engineering Manager at Kentec said: "Through-hole components are still a significant part of our designs and by investing the way we have across these processes, we make our production much more resilient for the future.”

Following previous investments in conventional assembly, Kentec approached Altus for guidance on high-performance THT inspection. After extensive evaluation at Altus' Redditch demonstration facility which included programming, debugging, and real-time production testing, the Magic-ray V5300 was selected for its ability to provide accurate dual-sided inspection in a single pass.

The V5300 combines high-resolution cameras with Magic-ray's proprietary algorithms to identify defects such as bridging, blow holes, pin bending, and missing pins. With support for FOVs up to 40×40mm and resolutions down to 10μm, it delivers precise inspection even on odd-form components.

Altus also supported trials of other Magic-ray systems, including the V320 and V5200, to explore inspection before and after wave soldering. However, it was the post-reflow performance of the V5300 that offered the greatest operational advantage.

"We are delighted with the Magic-ray unit and it's great to see it now onsite and inspecting effectively," said Dave. "This was our first project with Altus and involved a brand-new process we hadn't used before, so we wanted to ensure we did thorough homework and pre-sales preparation. Altus was very accommodating in helping to build confidence that our first investment with them would be beneficial for both parties."

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "Kentec is a great example of a UK-based OEM with end-to-end control of its production. We're proud to support them and pleased to see another Magic-ray system in the field. Our aim is always to build long-term relationships, so detailed validation and open communication are essential from the outset."

This is the first Magic-ray system at Kentec and the start of what both companies expect to be a long-term working relationship.

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Robotic Soldering Integration by Altus Group Enhances Through-Hole Assembly for CEM

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:00:00 GMT

New Automation For THT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, are this month installing two PROMATION Quick 9544CJ PRO robotic soldering systems at Alan Anderson Manufacturing, a rapidly growing contract electronics manufacturer. This significant investment will optimise their through-hole soldering operations, increase production throughput and reducing operator risk in a traditionally labour-intensive process.

Alan Anderson Manufacturing has big ambitions and a focus on the possibilities of growth in the future, and this investment in new equipment marks the second tranche of recent process optimisation, after the investment in their brand-new Koh Young 3D AOI. This investment activity demonstrates their ongoing commitment to driving value for their customers, by making strategic process enhancements that elevate the production capabilities they can offer their end customers.

The PROMATION Quick 9544CJ PRO offers a large 500mm by 500mm gantry workspace, enabling efficient handling of a wide variety of assemblies and fixtures without the need for repositioning. Its nitrogen-ready 180-watt soldering iron delivers precise temperature control with rapid thermal recovery, which is critical for lead-free and heat-sensitive assemblies. To maintain consistent soldering quality, the system features dual solder tip cleaning stations that allow operators to choose between non-contact compressed air or nitrogen cleaning and a rotating brass brush system, optimising tip maintenance for different applications.

In addition, the system integrates an automated solder tip adjustment device, the QUICK 9036, which measures tip wear and automatically adjusts soldering offsets to maximise tip life and maintain uniform quality with minimal manual intervention. Safety and environmental considerations are addressed through localised fume extraction ports that effectively remove soldering fumes and can be connected to existing facility extraction systems. Quality control is further enhanced by an HD process viewing camera kit, which provides real-time, magnified video of the soldering process on a 9-inch LCD display.

Phil Bray, Managing Director at Alan Anderson Manufacturing, said: “The units will enable us to take a significant step forward in modernising our approach to THT soldering and assembly, allowing us to produce larger quantities at the highest standards while mitigating some of the inherent risks associated with manual labour. I am very excited to see them on site and operational soon!”

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, added, “Robotic soldering is increasingly recognised as a critical solution for manufacturers responding to rising production demands and quality expectations. Our collaboration with Alan Anderson highlights how the integration of advanced automation can deliver tangible improvements in efficiency and process reliability.”

With installation and operator training underway, Alan Anderson Manufacturing is positioned to benefit from enhanced throughput, process reliability, and streamlined operator involvement, reinforcing its status as a leading contract electronics manufacturer in the UK.

Altus Group Supports Scienscope Launch of AXC-830 X-ray Component Counter

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:15:00 GMT

New Counter In The Range

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland, is supporting Scienscope in the launch of its latest AXC-830 X-ray component counter, building on years of accelerating success in component management solutions. Together, Scienscope and Altus have established themselves as the UK market leader in X-ray component counting, combining Scienscope's strong technological capability and ongoing investment in innovation with Altus Group's reliable after-sales support and customer service.

The most popular unit in Scienscope's range has been the AXC-800 III, a batch-loaded system now in its third generation. Units supporting semi-automation and full inline automation have also seen increasing adoption across their customer base. Listening closely to customer feedback, Scienscope has developed the AXC-830, taking another step forward in their portfolio based on direct input from users in the field.

The AXC-830 is a manually loaded unit that utilises all of the core technology of the AXC-800 III range, including software and the bulk of the hardware. However, it now integrates an automatic drawer instead of a manual one. This automatic drawer allows operators to open and close it simply by pressing two buttons on the front of the unit, with the drawer completing each stage of the process automatically. Sensors within the drawer enable automatic label printing for one to four reels as they are removed, a feature that has proven highly valuable for existing adopters of Scienscope technology. The response to the new unit has been immediate, with Altus already receiving orders for the AXC-830 and first installations scheduled shortly after the summer.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "Our partnership with Scienscope has made us the market leader in the UK for X-ray component counting solutions. Scienscope continues to be a very proactive supplier, quickly adapting and iterating their products based on market feedback.

“The AXC-830 builds on the strong foundations of the AXC-800 III, adding automation that improves efficiency while maintaining the accuracy and reliability our customers expect. This allows us to offer solutions for a wide range of throughputs and budgets, from low-volume manual operations to high-volume inline systems. We're looking forward to seeing the first AXC-830 units installed in UK facilities soon."

For more information on the AXC-830 and other Scienscope solutions, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

New Engineer Joins Altus Continuing Multi-Generational Tradition

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:56:39 GMT

Increasing Support Capacity

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has appointed Sam Todd as Junior Application and Service Engineer, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the third son to follow in his father's footsteps within the company.

Sam joins his father Mike Todd, Senior Operations and Planning Manager at the company, continuing a proud tradition at Altus Group of bringing the next generation into the business. He now joins CEO Joe Booth, whose father Richard Booth is founder and chairman of Altus Group, and Sales Engineer Steve Leake, whose father Tony Leake was a Service Engineer for many years, both of whom have worked their way up through the business to senior positions.

Sam joins the After Sales team, bringing fresh perspective from his previous experience in another sector. His appointment reflects Altus Group's strategic approach of investing in emerging talent while maintaining their reputation for having some of the most experienced engineers in the industry to deliver the highest quality support.

Joe Booth, CEO at Altus Group, said: "I am delighted for Sam to get the opportunity to join Altus and I hope, just like his father, he has a very bright and long career with the company. It's particularly meaningful to see this generational tradition continue - we now have three sons following in their fathers' footsteps, which speaks to the culture and values we've built here. In what we do, and especially on the support side of the business, mindset and values are critical-technical experience can be learned. Sam is eager to learn and take this opportunity with both hands. I really look forward to seeing how he develops and watching him in the field taking on customer challenges."

Based in Redditch, Sam is ideally positioned to support Altus' expanding installation base across the Midlands and South. He is currently undergoing extensive training, including internal courses, supplier accreditation and shadowing experienced team members, with field deployment anticipated soon.

The appointment demonstrates Altus Group's commitment to establishing themselves as the partner for the future by investing in it. By combining seasoned expertise with emerging talent, the company continues to strengthen their position as leaders in support excellence while supporting the industry's long-term development.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group Strengthens Support Capabilities Through Continued Investment in Team Training

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 06:30:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has reinforced its commitment to support excellence by investing extensively in training and upskilling its engineering team.

Central to Altus’ strategy is delivering value-added support across the full electronics assembly process not just at the point of sale. By maintaining the largest technical team in the region, Altus ensures customers benefit from accessible, responsive, and knowledgeable service. This year, the company has invested significant time and resources into enhancing the team’s technical capabilities through a wide-ranging training programme.

Engineers recently completed refreshed IPC training delivered by Advanced Rework Technology (ART), ensuring alignment with the latest industry standards. This builds on ongoing internal cross-training, supplier-accredited sessions, and application-based development. Additional training in areas such as conformal coating and oven profiling further supports Altus’ ability to deliver deep process knowledge and robust technical insight to customers.

Mike Todd, Senior Operations and Planning at Altus Group, said: “We’ve dedicated a substantial portion of the past year to upskilling our team, and it’s something we’re extremely proud of. It’s a significant investment, but the benefits are clear, both for our engineers, who gain greater job satisfaction and personal development opportunities, and for our customers, who work with a more capable and knowledgeable support team. This broader understanding of manufacturing processes helps us improve new installations, resolve breakdowns more quickly, and ultimately enhance customer satisfaction.”

Investing in professional development allows Altus to provide customers with more than just equipment it also enables value-added support across the full electronics assembly process, delivered by engineers with practical, up-to-date knowledge.

For more information, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Supports Phoenix Systems in Advancing THT Assembly with Robotic Soldering

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 06:15:00 GMT

New customer to Altus and Promation now using a 9544CJ Pro

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has successfully supported Phoenix Systems UK Ltd in its investment in robotic soldering technology to further enhance its through-hole technology (THT) assembly processes.

Phoenix Systems, a Contract Electronics Manufacturer (CEM) based in Fareham, Hampshire, delivers electronic manufacturing services across several high-reliability industries including aerospace, defence, and industrial. With a commitment to serving both low and high-volume production requirements, Phoenix Systems identified THT assembly as a key area for automation to increase production output and at the same time improve efficiency.

Following extensive evaluation, Phoenix Systems selected the Promation 9544CJ Pro Robotic Soldering system, partnering with Altus for its implementation. The advanced system features a robust hot iron soldering setup with a closed-loop temperature sensor, ensuring precise and stable tip temperature control. With a large 400 x 400 mm working area, the system provides flexibility for evolving manufacturing needs.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: “Robotic soldering was one of our most popular processes in 2024 as many sites are struggling with the same issues around this traditionally highly manual process. This project moved quickly, including air shipment into production, so getting Phoenix up and running was our top priority at the start of the year.”

Promation 9544CJ features a heated nitrogen soldering kit for lead-free applications, an automatic solder feeder, and a dual-tip cleaning station. Its advanced solder wire feeding mechanism reduces defects like solder ball and flux splatter, ensuring consistent quality. Localised fume extraction and precision control via Colour CCD ‘Witness Cameras’ further enhance efficiency.

“With any new customer, ensuring smooth implementation is key,” said Joe. “The Phoenix team’s technical expertise and preparation made the process seamless.”

Since installation, Phoenix Systems has seen significant improvements in THT soldering. “It’s exciting to integrate this technology into our facility. The unit enhances consistency and quality while reducing the skill level required for operation,” said Mark.

With Altus’ support, Phoenix Systems has strengthened its manufacturing capabilities even further and enhanced long-term efficiency with the Promation robotic soldering system.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus and Danutek Expand Partnership with LPKF to Offer Laser Plastic Welding Solutions

Thu, 29 May 2025 06:30:00 GMT

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The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment and service support for the electronics manufacturing sector in the UK and Ireland, and its sister company Danutek, which serves Central and Eastern Europe, are expanding their technology offering through an enhanced partnership with LPKF, a specialist in laser-based manufacturing solutions. Following the success of their collaboration on depaneling systems, the companies will now support LPKF’s high-precision laser plastic welding technology across their respective regions.

LPKF's laser plastic welding technology is a highly precise and environmentally friendly solution for joining plastic components, offering a clean, repeatable process that does not involve solvents, chemicals, or mechanical stress. It works by passing a laser beam through a laser-transparent upper plastic layer that is then absorbed by a lower layer, creating a controlled weld. The technology creates joints as strong as the material itself with clean finishes and completely sealed, precise weld seams.

The partnership expansion comes when the market is seeing an increased adoption of laser-based technologies across manufacturing sectors. LPKF's continued technological advancements have positioned them as pioneers, offering cutting-edge solutions that address growing industry demands for precision, reliability, and sustainability.

Richard Booth, Founder and Chairman of Altus Group and Danutek said: "LPKF is a high-quality supplier, and we have been very impressed with their support and infrastructure for PCB laser depaneling. This has enabled our team to achieve early success in identifying and implementing projects across our region and to build significant confidence in our partnership.

“Expanding our relationship into another exciting business unit is a natural progression. With laser plastic welding, LPKF already has established connections with many of our existing customers and many references we can build upon. We anticipate the same success with this product line as we've experienced with their depaneling solutions."

The technology is compatible with a wide range of thermoplastic materials, making it versatile for various applications. LPKF offers several system configurations, from standalone workstations to fully integrated production solutions, allowing manufacturers to select the ideal setup for their specific requirements.

A key advantage of LPKF's systems is their integrated online process monitoring capability, ensuring continuous quality assurance throughout production. This flexibility and monitoring capability give manufacturers greater control over their joining processes while maintaining consistent quality.

As part of this expanded offering, Altus and Danutek will provide local service support, building on their successful track record of assisting customers with LPKF's laser depaneling products. The teams will be equipped with the necessary training and expertise to offer first-line support, pre-sales activities, and raise awareness of the benefits of laser plastic welding technology.

Boban Stepanovic, Sales Director at LPKF, said: "This is an exciting step forward for LPKF. We have developed remarkable technology for the market, and partnering with companies like Altus Group and Danutek will give us additional bandwidth to share our innovations with a wider audience. We are strongly aligned in our commitment to high-quality pre-sales support and customer education, which helps mitigate customer risk and ensures long-term success. Having partners so focused on aftersales support can only enhance our reputation going forward."

By adding LPKF's laser plastic welding technology to their portfolio, Altus and Danutek continue to expand their ability to meet diverse manufacturing needs across the UK, Ireland, and Central and Eastern Europe.

For more information, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Promotion Enhances Altus Group’s Support Across the North

Thu, 22 May 2025 06:30:00 GMT

Steve Leake Promoted to Sales Engineer

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has promoted Steve Leake to Sales Engineer, strengthening the company's technical sales capabilities across north England.

The new role builds on Steve’s four years of experience with Altus as an Application and Service Engineer. During this time, he has worked closely with customers post-installation, delivering training, conducting maintenance, and providing on-site technical support. He has also played a significant role in pre-sales activity, carrying out equipment demonstrations and sample validations to help identify the right solutions for customer applications.

Steve recently completed a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the Open University, adding to his strong technical foundations. In his new role, he will combine account management with dedicated pre-sales support, offering a technically informed approach that aligns with Altus’ commitment to support excellence.

Joe Booth, CEO at Altus Group, said: "I am delighted for Steve to move into this new role and one in which I think he will have great success. Steve has a great communication style with customers, leveraging presentation and coaching skills from his background in teaching. He is also a fast learner with a strong real-life understanding of the solutions we support from his experience working with them in the field. Our sales approach is technical and consideration-based, and our customers appreciate having a trusted technical soundboard in their projects, which is something Steve might do better than many in the industry, given his background and technical knowledge. I'm looking forward to Steve getting underway and celebrating his first successful implementation."

Steve will serve as a key point of contact for new and existing customers in the north, ensuring a consistent and high-quality pre-sales experience, from consultation to application validation.

Steve Leake said: "I am excited about this new role and step in my career. I am under no illusion that it won't come with its own learning curve, but I have a great team around me to learn from and support in developing my skills. I believe we have the best range of suppliers and processes of any of our peers. The largest and most knowledgeable after-sales team in the market, and both of these aspects speak for themselves when our customers are looking for partners. Hopefully, my enthusiasm and energy can help us spread the word and will result in even more new and returning customers."

With his strong technical background and customer-focused approach, Steve's move into sales engineering aligns perfectly with Altus Group's 'Focused on support excellence' mantra, which guides every customer interaction from first contact to after-sales support.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Helps FermionX Enhance Production with 3D AOI

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Thu, 08 May 2025 06:00:00 GMT

New Koh Young User of fully 3D Metrology

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has supported Contract Electronics Manufacturer (CEM) FermionX in upgrading its Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) system to meet the increasing demand for enhanced precision and faster production cycles.

As FermionX expanded its operations, the company recognised that its legacy 2D AOI system, while effective, had limitations including extended programming times and frequent false calls. With high quality production being core to their values, FermionX identified the need for a more advanced solution that would offer enhanced accuracy, streamline production, and support their growth trajectory.

After discussing options with Altus, FermionX selected the Koh Young Alpha HS+, a state-of-the-art True 3D Automated Optical Inspection system. This solution leverages advanced light metrology and artificial intelligence to deliver superior performance with highly accurate 3D measurements and high-speed inspection capabilities. The system also integrates Koh Young's KSMART platform, providing real-time data insights for process optimisation and continuous improvement.

Will Patrick, Managing Director of FermionX, said: “We are pleased to secure this latest investment from Altus, which takes our inspection capabilities to the next level. This system ensures we are not only producing the highest-quality PCBAs for our customers but also harnessing the power of data to enhance our process improvement decisions through the system’s advanced software and Statistical Process Control functionality.”

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “Having spent time with Will and his team throughout this project and its implementation, it’s clear to see their passion and determination to take FermionX to the next level. We are delighted to secure our first project with FermionX using Koh Young, undoubtedly our strongest supplier, and I look forward to many more opportunities to work together in the future.”

Since implementation, FermionX has seen impressive improvements in production efficiency and inspection accuracy. The new system has enabled them to optimise production lines and enhance overall manufacturing processes, driving increased customer satisfaction and positioning the company for continued growth.

Altus Supports Garner Osborne in Enhancing Component Management with Scienscope X-Ray Component Counter

Thu, 01 May 2025 06:45:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has supported Contract Electronics Manufacturer, Garner Osborne Circuits to further strengthen its component management capabilities with the installation of the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-ray Component Counter, strengthening the company’s inventory control capabilities.

Having maintained a strong partnership with Altus for many years, Garner Osborne consulted with the company to identify the optimal solution for enhancing their component management system. As a specialist in high-mix, low-medium volume manufacturing, the CEM identified specific operational challenge to address including unexpected stock level discrepancies, time-intensive manual counting processes, and the need for more accurate vendor component verification.

Altus facilitated an on-site trial of the Scienscope AXC-800 III, allowing the Garner Osborne team to evaluate its performance under real production conditions. Steve Honeybun, CEM Operations Director at Garner Osborne, said: “It was invaluable to have Altus provide a unit for on-site testing. This hands-on experience gave us confidence that we were selecting the best system for our needs. Given our long-standing relationship with Altus, we knew their support would be a major advantage compared to lower-cost alternatives.”

The Scienscope AXC-800 III offers rapid counting of up to four reels in less than 25 seconds, automated label reading and printing via an integrated smart camera, and exceptional accuracy for counting strips and partial reels. With a pre-installed database covering a vast range of components, the system ensures consistency and reliability in inventory tracking. Its advanced X-ray technology and AI-driven algorithms enable an exceptional accuracy rate of 99.99%, even for the smallest components.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “Scienscope had a record year in the UK, and we were delighted to support Garner Osborne in this investment. The AXC-800 III has the largest component library available, and seeing it deliver results in a high-mix production environment reaffirms its value. Garner Osborne has made a series of smart investments, and it’s been rewarding to support them in optimising their processes.”

Following a successful trial, Garner Osborne invested in the Scienscope AXC-800 III. The implementation has already delivered tangible benefits, including improved inventory accuracy, reduced line stoppages, and a more streamlined counting process, strengthening their position as a leader in the UK electronics manufacturing sector.

Altus Honours Scienscope with ‘Fastest Growing and Most Dynamic Supplier’ Award

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 07:15:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has awarded Scienscope, a global provider of high-quality inspection equipment, with the ‘Fastest Growing and Most Dynamic Supplier’ recognition, celebrating their dynamic growth and innovative approach to electronics manufacturing solutions.

The award was presented by Richard Booth, Chairman and Founder of Altus Group and Danutek Group Companies, to Eddy Linn and Jean Wu of Scienscope at the recent IPC APEX EXPO 2025.

Altus and Scienscope partnered in 2018 to introduce 2D X-ray and X-ray counter technology into the European market. At the time, Scienscope was launching its first generation AXC-800 X-ray Counter, marking the start of a partnership that has grown rapidly over the years.

By 2025, Scienscope has established its European headquarters in Romania, developed a range of 2D X-ray solutions, and expanded into component management technologies, including goods-in scanning, smart storage, in batch as well and automated versions.

Richard Booth, Founder and Chairman of Altus and Danutek Group Companies said: "Looking back at how our partnership has developed, it’s something we’re really proud of. We always aim for success in every partnership we start, but it takes two partners who are aligned and share the same ambitions for that to happen. Ultimately, it’s about a supplier who consistently invests in development, enabling us to find new ways to support their growth and customer acquisition. For me, the shift towards developing a suite of component management solutions and becoming a market leader in that space has been critical to their success. Given that this area is still under-invested across our markets, it will continue to drive our success in the years to come as the technology becomes more widely adopted."

Today, Altus and Danutek sell nearly $2 million worth of Scienscope products annually, reflecting the strength of the partnership built on Scienscope's focused R&D efforts and Altus Group's robust sales and marketing support. This collaboration has played a key role in the companies’ mutual success.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Enhances Traceability for Leading CEM

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Brand new YLM user

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has helped Active PCB Solutions, a UK-based Contract Electronics Manufacturer, enhance its traceability with the installation of the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker. This investment supports the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality products to demanding sectors.

Active PCB sought to enhance productivity further by moving away from a manual, resource-intensive labelling process to enhance its traceability system. After evaluating several options, the company selected the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker from Altus Group due to its advanced features and seamless integration into their production process.

Jason Hancock, Head of Engineering at Active PCB Solutions, said: “With traceability and process improvements being key to delivering the highest quality to our customers, it was important to move away from a manual high-cost process. The YJ Link laser marker, supported by Altus, has provided an efficient and reliable solution.”

The YJ Link YLM Laser Marker stood out for its capability to automate the repetitive labelling process, increasing productivity and allowing staff to focus on more complex tasks. Its internal flip functionality enables double-sided PCB marking without manual intervention, streamlining workflow and reducing handling time. The system’s large working area accommodates a wide range of board sizes, enhancing production flexibility. Equipped with a high-quality Keyence laser head, the YLM delivers precise, high-contrast markings, ensuring accurate traceability throughout the product lifecycle.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “Active PCB’s investment in the YJ Link Laser Marker highlights their commitment to operational efficiency and quality. We’re pleased to provide a solution that enhances productivity and offers exceptional value.”

Since its installation, the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker has optimised Active PCB’s production workflow and delivered cost savings by automating the labelling process. The precise and durable laser markings ensure consistent traceability, supporting Active PCB’s high-quality standards.

For more information, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Supplies Dual Lane Reflow Oven to Triple CEM’s Production Capacity

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Brand new 1707MK7

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has partnered with Garner Osborne Circuits, a UK-based Contract Electronics Manufacturer, to implement a Dual Lane Heller 1707 MK7 reflow oven. This strategic investment will enhance the company’s production capabilities, allowing them to triple their reflow capacity and meet growing customer demands following recent company acquisition and expansion.

The well-established relationship between Altus and Garner Osborne influenced the selection of the Heller 1707 MK7, which offers proven reliability with over 250 units installed across the UK. The system's advanced thermal profiling, energy efficiency, and dual-lane configuration with independent conveyor speeds enable simultaneous processing of multiple PCBs, optimising production throughput.

Steve Honeybun, Operations Director at Garner Osborne, said: "We are really happy to have a new Heller Dual Lane oven on the way! Our business has been growing for many years, and this new reflow oven will allow us to add much-needed capacity and future-proof our production capabilities for the further growth we anticipate under our new leadership.

“After completing our research on the available solutions, it was clear that Heller has a great brand name and reputation for convection reflow, and the MK7 has some significant energy-saving advantages. We know Altus well, and we have built up a lot of trust in our partnership and the support they offer us when it is needed, so choosing to partner with them was easy, as always."

Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO, said: "It has been an exciting time for Garner Osborne under new management, and it's been a pleasure to see them grow for as long as we have been working with them. This new oven is an important investment, as being dual lane effectively triples their reflow capacity and removes a potential bottleneck, helping to boost production. With this additional capacity, they can support their growing customer base or bring in new orders. I'm looking forward to seeing the oven's increased utilisation. The Heller team was excellent throughout the sales process, particularly with the energy-saving audit, and it's great to see another new MK7 in the field!"

The installation of the Heller 1707 MK7 is part of Garner Osborne's broader strategy to enhance its manufacturing capabilities following its recent acquisition. This investment further strengthens the company's capacity to deliver high-quality electronics manufacturing services while expanding production throughput to meet increasing market demand.

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus to Host Exclusive User Day Showcasing Best-in-Class Conformal Coating Process and Inspection Solutions

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:33:54 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce its first 2025 User Day. This exclusive event, focused on the latest innovations and best practice in SMT conformal coating process and inspection technologies, will take place on 21st May at Altus HQ in Redditch.

Bringing together industry experts, suppliers, and manufacturers, the Altus User Day will provide attendees with in-depth insights into advanced conformal coating techniques, material solutions, and precision inspection processes that enhance product reliability and performance.

Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations of innovative equipment, including the PVA Delta 8 robotic system for selective conformal coating and dispensing applications, Neptune C+ from Koh Young, the company’s latest inspection technology for 3D in-line dispensing process inspection, and Kolb’s innovative PCBA cleaning solutions which can all be implemented to optimise coating performance.

Actnano will showcase its surface protection technologies for superior environmental resilience, while Humiseal will present cutting-edge materials for UV and acrylic-based conformal coatings. MP Dry Cabinet, known for its high-tech humidity and temperature controlled storage solutions, will also be featured, demonstrating advanced systems designed to optimise the long term curing process associated with conformal coating.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "Conformal coating is a complex process and what makes our User Day truly valuable is the chance for manufacturers to get hands-on with these technologies in one location, and learn about many key parts of a process and how they impact overall performance. Rather than reading spec sheets, attendees can see these systems working in real-time and ask questions directly to the experts who know them best. After years in this industry, I've consistently seen how these interactive demonstrations help companies make more informed decisions about their production processes."

The event agenda will include expert-led presentations, covering key challenges and solutions across the peripheral and core aspects of conformal coating, including describing the considered gold standard approx. Attendees will gain valuable insights into best practices and technological advancements, while also having the opportunity to network with industry professionals and discuss tailored solutions for their manufacturing needs.

With limited capacity, early registration is recommended. To enquire about available spaces, contact sales@altusgroup.co.uk

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

2024: A Year of Backend, THT Assembly, and Component Management Automation

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 07:30:00 GMT

The rise in post-SMT automation has been building since Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, and 2024 saw further acceleration. Socio-economic pressures, including inflation-driven pay rises and competition for available operators, have intensified the challenges of heavily manual processes. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting automation solutions to address inefficiencies in THT assembly and backend electronics production.

The ongoing challenges of securing skilled labor and managing rising operational costs have further fueled the shift towards automation. As a result, suppliers in these areas have experienced exceptional growth in the UK and Ireland, reaching record highs. For example, Promotion USA has delivered advanced robotic soldering solutions, PVA continues to lead in dispensing and conformal coating technology, Scienscope provides innovative component management and X-ray systems, and Kolb specializes in cleaning PCBAs, stencils, and tooling.

Looking ahead to 2025, we anticipate continued investment in automating peripheral processes that create production bottlenecks. Additionally, the establishment of new production facilities across the UK and Ireland is expected, driven by stable economic conditions and strengthened ties with the U.S.A. These developments position the region for growth in electronics manufacturing.

At Altus, we are uniquely positioned to support this evolution by offering complete solutions for outfitting electronic production facilities. With our comprehensive portfolio, we are ready to act as a turn-key provider for manufacturers navigating the next wave of automation.

Altus Group Launches New X-ray Inspection Services for Electronics Manufacturers

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 07:00:00 GMT

A cost effective way to support your customers before making an investment

Altus Group, a leading distributor of production equipment and consumables for the electronics manufacturing sector in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce the launch of its new X-ray inspection services. This addition is designed to help manufacturers optimise their production processes and maintain the highest standards of quality through non-destructive testing solutions where owning a unit outright themselves may be difficult to justify.

Known for its complete turnkey solutions across SMT and THT assembly, back-end processes, and component management, Altus now offers advanced X-ray inspection services using the Xspection 3000 system from Scienscope. This state-of-the-art 2D X-ray machine features a high-power microfocus sealed X-ray tube, spot sizes as small as 5µm, and a wide range of inspection capabilities for PCBA and final assembly needs. The service supports customers with rapid, high-quality inspections, from initial process validation during NPI to field failure analysis.

Mike Todd, Senior Operations and Planning Manager at Altus Group, said: "We are always evaluating ways to add more value for our customers, and the introduction of X-ray inspection services is an exciting step forward.

“The significant investment required for in-house X-ray systems can be a barrier for many manufacturers, particularly for those who need it only for specific applications. Our new service provides a flexible solution, allowing customers to leverage our technology when they need it, without the capital expenditure. This is just one example of how we plan to continue expanding our service offerings to address customer challenges and solidify our position as the ideal partner for manufacturers. We plan to go further and develop more services across 2025, all with the aim of creating value in existing customer needs.”

Altus’ X-ray services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers. Whether supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) and initial process validation, conducting ongoing production inspections, or providing failure analysis for field issues, the company is positioned to help manufacturers achieve the highest quality control and process optimisation levels.

The service is especially beneficial for contract electronics manufacturers (CEMs) who require X-ray inspection as part of customer contracts but do not justify purchasing their own system. It’s also ideal for manufacturers looking to verify the quality of high-value components, such as BGAs, or analysing products that have encountered issues in the field. In addition to its state-of-the-art technology, Altus offers a team of highly skilled industry experts, certified in X-ray systems and IPC standards, ensuring reliable results and comprehensive support for all customers.

The new service offering is part of Altus' broader strategy to operate as a one-stop shop, providing customers with flexible, high-quality solutions that can help streamline their operations and improve their products. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation, Altus plans to introduce additional services in 2025 to support manufacturers across the UK and Ireland further.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus to Highlight Key Manufacturing Solutions and Trends at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2025 Stand J80

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:45:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of advanced electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, will showcase a selection of cutting-edge solutions at Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2025 from 4-6 February at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. Visitors can learn about innovative technologies tailored to meet the evolving demands of the electronics industry at the stand, and gain valuable insights into industry trends and strategies for modernising operations during a seminar hosted by the company.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, will present a session on Tuesday 4 February, titled ‘Every Challenge is an Opportunity with the Right Vision.’ The presentation will cover key trends of 2024, offering strategies for manufacturers to modernise and automate operations in order to remain competitive in a shifting market. Joe will also share insights on adapting to industry challenges and future-proofing manufacturing processes.

‘’I can’t wait for this years’ Southern Manufacturing event!” said Joe. "As a one-stop shop for electronics production, selecting what to showcase from our full range of solutions is always a challenge. However, we’ve carefully chosen four of our best-performing suppliers and processes from 2024, which address key industry challenges that the market is actively exploring.

“At the event, we’ll be demonstrating these solutions in action. We’ll also be unveiling our brand-new product brochure, featuring the latest innovations from our suppliers. But more importantly, we’re eager to hear directly from our customers about their pain points for 2025 and how we can help solve them. Last year, the event generated the most leads and meetings we’ve ever had, and we’re looking forward to achieving the same success this time around."

Altus will showcase a selection of advanced equipment including the Koh Young Alpha HS+ 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) System. This cutting-edge system uses AI-powered precision to inspect pcbs with unmatched accuracy, reducing the need for manual inspection and improving process yields. The Alpha HS+ is designed to help manufacturers maintain the highest quality standards while driving production efficiency.

Another highlight will be the PVA Delta 8 Conformal Coating and Dispensing System, a versatile solution for coating, potting, and dispensing applications. Known for its reliability and precision, the Delta 8 is ideal for high-mix production environments where consistency and flexibility are key.

Altus will also feature the Essemtec Fox ‘All in One’ System, a modular pick-and-place system that offers scalability for manufacturers working with high-mix, low-volume production. The Fox system’s small footprint and expandable design make it a perfect fit for space-constrained production lines.

Finally, the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-ray Component Counter will be on display. With an accuracy rate of 99.99%, this system helps manufacturers streamline inventory management by providing fast and precise component counting, reducing downtime and enhancing overall efficiency.

For 2025, Altus Group will also introduce a brand-new stand design, offering an updated experience for visitors to learn more about the innovative solutions on display. Visit Altus Group at the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics Show 2025, stand J80, from 4-6 February 2025 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

Altus Assists CEM to Optimise Efficiency with X-Ray Component Counting

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 08:10:02 GMT

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Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has successfully helped G&B Electronic Designs Ltd., a prominent contract electronics manufacturer, address a key operational challenge by supplying the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-Ray Component Counter. This strategic investment enables the company to further enhance and optimise production efficiency.

G&B Electronic Designs, with over 40 years of experience in delivering high-quality electronics assembly services, was facing inefficiencies due to its manual component counting process. The company’s high-mix, low-to-medium volume production environment, combined with frequent production changeovers, made it critical to find a solution that could streamline operations and improve traceability.

Recognising these challenges, Altus worked closely with G&B to identify the Scienscope AXC-800 III as the ideal solution. The system offers advanced X-ray technology capable of counting up to four small reels in less than 30 seconds, helping to increase G&B’s component handling and improving accuracy.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We recognised that G&B needed a solution to eliminate the bottlenecks caused by manual component counting and reduce the risk of shortages. By working together, we were able to identify the Scienscope AXC-800 III as the perfect fit for their needs. The system has not only sped up the component counting process but also enhanced traceability, offering them a robust tool to manage their inventory more efficiently."

The AXC-800 III’s features, including real-time barcode scanning, automated label printing, and seamless integration with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), provide G&B with enhanced control over their stock and eliminate risks associated with manual processes.

Darren Bills, Purchasing and Materials Manager at G&B Electronic Designs, said: "G&B is always evaluating ways to improve its processes, not just in assembly but across the entire business, so that we are always moving forward and developing. We have been focusing on internal efficiencies, including our factory layout, process flow, component storage area, and now our automatic component counter. These changes have been paying dividends in terms of increased productivity and reduced errors.”

Since installing the Scienscope AXC-800 III, G&B has seen immediate improvements in its production cycle. The automated system has significantly reduced component counting times, allowing the company to quickly check kits and book stock back in from production, minimising downtime and the risk of line shortages.

This is the second major project between Altus and G&B in 2024, highlighting their strong working relationship. By consistently finding innovative solutions, Altus has helped G&B remain competitive in the electronics manufacturing sector, meeting today’s demands while preparing for future growth.

Altus Highlights Heller Industries Advances in Void Reduction Under 1% Using Multi-Stage Controlled Vacuum

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 08:30:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, emphasises the importance of reducing voids in reflow soldering to improve manufacturing efficiency and product reliability. As one of their key suppliers, Heller Industries, a global provider of electronic manufacturing reflow solutions, has developed multi-stage controlled vacuum technology that reduces void rates to below 1%. This technology is especially beneficial for industries like semiconductor and surface-mount technology (SMT) assembly, where maintaining high-quality solder joints is crucial.

With the increasing demand for high-performance electronics, reducing voids in solder joints is essential for ensuring long-term reliability. Heller’s vacuum-assisted reflow soldering process has proven to significantly reduce void rates by up to 99% while addressing substrate and wafer warpage, critical challenges for the electronics manufacturing industry.

Heller’s vacuum technology creates a controlled vacuum environment during the reflow process, allowing gas bubbles to escape, reducing void formation. This results in improved heat dissipation, better product stability, and enhanced performance, particularly in high-

frequency applications. Additionally, the technology helps eliminate solder splatter and prevents solder bridging, further improving manufacturing efficiency.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "We are lucky to have suppliers that are dedicated to developing solutions that make a real difference for our customers and voiding is top of mind for many globally. Heller's multi-stage controlled vacuum technology advancements are a perfect example of a supplier addressing a trend, offering manufacturers a way to improve solder joint quality and eliminate issues like voiding whilst mitigating warpage. By helping customers optimise their reflow soldering processes, we’re enabling them to achieve higher quality products and more efficient operations.”

Heller’s vacuum-assisted reflow technology, now widely implemented across customer installations in production, offers manufacturers a cost-effective solution with high efficiency and low unit per hour (UPH) rates, making it ideal for optimising production without compromising quality.

Altus in partnership with Heller are a significant force in the electronics manufacturing industry, helping manufacturers address key convection reflow process related challenges. Through its ongoing collaboration with Heller Industries, Altus is supporting over 200 manufacturing sites in the UK using Heller to improve process reliability, product quality, and operational efficiency, further reinforcing its role as a trusted industry partner.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group Strengthens Support Capabilities with Return of Experienced Service Professional

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has announced the return of Gareth Cuthbert as Application & Service Engineer to its team, reinforcing the company's commitment to supporting excellence and customer service.

Gareth previously worked with Altus for nearly six years, during which he gained an understanding of the company’s processes, platforms, and customer needs. Since then, he has expanded his skillset as a service engineer for a world-leading filtration provider, gaining valuable insight into delivering exceptional on-site solutions.

Mike Todd, Altus Senior Operations and Planning Manager said: "We are really pleased to welcome Gareth back to the Altus team. His familiarity with our systems and customers will significantly reduce the onboarding time and allow him to contribute quickly. His expanded experience working closely with customers in his previous role aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing outstanding support. Bringing Gareth back enhances our technical expertise on inspection products and strengthens our presence in the North, a region where we see sustained growth opportunities.”

Altus Group has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, almost tripling its customer base over the last five years by consistently acquiring new clients. With a steadfast focus on aftersales excellence and ongoing customer care, the company is investing in its service capabilities to meet growing demand. Gareth’s reappointment represents another strategic step in ensuring customers receive unparalleled support.

Based in Barnsley, Gareth will undergo an intensive training and accreditation programme to ensure he is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Customers in the North can expect to see Gareth actively supporting maintenance and breakdown services starting in January 2025.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Showcases Cutting-Edge Equipment at the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2025

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:15:00 GMT

Altus Group, a prominent distributor of advanced equipment for electronics assembly in the UK and Ireland, has announced its participation in the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics show, held from 4-6 February 2025 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. This event brings together industry leaders and innovators, offering an ideal platform for Altus to present a range of technologies designed to meet the increasing demands of electronics manufacturing.

Among the advanced solutions on display will be the Koh Young Alpha HS+ 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) System, known for its whole-board foreign material inspection, high precision, and AI-powered functionality. The Alpha HS+ streamlines setup and operation, ensures no escapes, and ultimately allows its users to drive up their production yields, making it an invaluable resource for the best in PCBA manufacturing.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “We are pleased to once again exhibit at the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics Show, a key event for the industry. We are uniquely placed as a one stop shop provider for almost every process in PCBA manufacturing, so the to show gives us a great opportunity to speak with prospective customers, who we tend to have one solution or an entire process that is relevant. For me the show offers a brilliant opportunity for the market to come together, for us to understand the needs of both our customers and prospects, and for us to demonstrate what are the most popular process upgrade opportunities and why.”

Altus will also showcase the Promation 9544CJ Pro Robotic Soldering Unit after a record year of sales in 2024. Built for precision, this system features a high-stability hot iron soldering capability. With an innovative design that improves flux core outgassing and minimises solder defects, the 9544CJ Pro enhances reliability in high-volume production environments.

The PVA Delta 8 Conformal Coating/Dispensing System will also be demonstrated at the event. Engineered for selective coating, potting, and dispensing, Delta 8 is ideal for various complex assembly processes. Its robust overhead three-axis motion platform and closed-loop process control provide consistent and precise operation, setting a high standard for precision in manufacturing.

Also on display will be the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-ray Component Counter after another big year of installations regionally. This third-generation system offers an innovative approach to component inventory management, delivering accurate counts in seconds with an impressive 99.99% accuracy rate. Its integrated optical barcode scanner accelerates data capture, making it an essential tool for fast-paced production lines.

Visit Altus Group at the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics Show 2025, stand J80, from 4-6 February 2025 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Sees Growing Interest for Laser Depanelling Solutions

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:30:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has seen an increasing interest in laser depaneling systems from LPKF in 2024. Laser depaneling is an advanced method for separating PCBs from their panels using precise laser cutting technology. This innovative process offers significant benefits in efficiency and versatility, making it increasingly relevant across various manufacturing sectors.

Laser depaneling has emerged as a superior alternative to conventional separation methods. It allows for stress-free, non-contact separation, enabling cuts to be made close to mounted components without damaging them. The precision cutting with narrow channels, combined with the flexibility to process various materials—both rigid and flexible—makes it a highly efficient solution for electronics manufacturers. Especially those that are looking for cost saving on their bill of materials, as using a laser can significantly reduce the amount of PCB needed for break out areas providing material and immediate ROI. This digital, software-based and laser beam guided method accommodates complex geometries while eliminating tool wear, significantly reducing maintenance and changeover costs.

Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO, said: "We've seen growing interest in LPKF laser depaneling solutions, particularly the CuttingMaster 3000 series with Tensor technology. Manufacturers are increasingly recognising the benefits of this advanced approach to PCB separation. The precision, flexibility, and efficiency offered by these systems allows our customers to stay competitive in demanding industries such as automotive, medical technology, and consumer electronics where accuracy is key."

The LPKF CuttingMaster 3000 series is recognised as one of the most flexible and precise laser depaneling systems on the market. Equipped with linear drives, these systems ensure exceptional positioning accuracy and high-quality results with a large working range.

These systems can integrate a wide variety of laser sources with different wavelengths and pulse widths in the nano or picosecond range. Many of the models also feature LPKF's advanced Tensor technology, making them suitable for a diverse range of applications and materials. This ultrafast beam deflection technology offers up to a 70% reduction in cycle times when combined with LPKF CleanCut. It significantly increases performance potential while maintaining maximum transmission and high robustness for excellent reliability, improving cost efficiency.

As the complexity of electronic devices continues to increase, Altus sees laser depaneling as an important technology for manufacturers looking to enhance their production capabilities.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Partners with G&B Electronic Designs to Enhance Inspection Capabilities

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland, has supported G&B Electronic Designs Ltd., a prominent EMS in the UK, in enhancing its inspection processes through the installation of the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+. This advanced True 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) system has strengthened G&B’s already strong commitment to maintaining high-quality standards in PCB assembly.

G&B Electronic Designs faced challenges with its previous 2D inspection system, which resulted in difficulties inspecting reflective and increasing complex components. In search of a more effective solution, they partnered with Altus and chose the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+. The system addressed these challenges by utilising advanced fully 3D light metrology and proprietary artificial intelligence algorithms to provide precise inspections tailored for modern PCB designs.

The system features whole-board foreign material inspection, ensuring contaminants do not compromise assembly integrity, and can inspect components up to 25mm in height. Additionally, its AI-Powered Auto Programming (KAP) streamlines setup processes, reducing programming time and minimising human error.

Steve Tumber, Head of Operations at G&B Electronic Designs, said: “Koh Young's reputation for market-leading technology was well-known. After conducting thorough evaluations of key industry players, it became evident that the combination of Koh Young's technology, quality of testing data and Altus's support was the superior choice for our needs.”

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “We are pleased to assist G&B Electronic Designs in improving their inspection capabilities. This installation reflects their commitment to quality and continuous improvement, and we believe the features of the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ will provide them with a competitive advantage.”

With the integration of the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+, G&B Electronic Designs is now equipped to enhance product quality and streamline operations, allowing them to remain competitive in the ever-evolving electronics manufacturing sector.

Will AI Really Steal My Electronics Manufacturing Job? ... We Just Think It Will Make You Look Better!

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a major buzzword across industries, yet its true potential and applications are often misunderstood. While AI technologies differ in capabilities, their impact on various sectors is undeniable. The ongoing advancements in AI will likely continue to reshape industries, but how is AI affecting electronics manufacturing today? And what does the future hold?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly integral to electronics manufacturing, particularly in the transition toward autonomous smart factories within the framework of Industry 4.0. AI technologies are driving significant advancements, transforming the industry and bringing it closer to the vision of smart manufacturing. While certain aspects of this transformation are realised, achieving a fully autonomous "lights-out" factory may still be a distant goal. Nevertheless, AI continues to expand the boundaries of what is possible in this field.

The Vision of the Smart Factory

The concept of the smart factory has been evolving over the years. While we are seeing tremendous progress, achieving 100% automation remains challenging. In my view, factories will always require some level of human involvement, particularly in the final stages of automation. The first 90% of automation delivers the most value, but the last 10%—the phase that seeks to eliminate all human intervention—will be the hardest to achieve.

Despite these challenges, the next 10-15 years will likely see a dramatic transformation in manufacturing, driven by AI tools. These tools already address long-standing pain poi nts and enable process improvements that once seemed impossible.

The Smart Manufacturing Vision Pyramid

We can look at the 2022 Smart Manufacturing Vision Pyramid to better understand the progress toward the smart factory. This framework highlights the different stages of smart factory development, from basic automation to full autonomy.

Many companies have achieved aspects of Smart 2.0, while the technologies associated with Smart 1.0 have become standard practice. The pyramid’s stages are built on key technological advancements, each of which plays a critical role in moving toward full autonomy:

1. Data Acquisition: This foundational stage involves collecting high-quality, accurate, and repeatable data from various sources across the manufacturing environment. Robust data acquisition lays the groundwork for all subsequent stages of smart manufacturing.

2. Insights: Once data is collected, it must be analysed. Statistical analysis and AI-driven insights allow manufacturers to understand their operations better and identify areas for improvement.

3. Digital Twin and Simulation: The next stage involves creating a digital twin—a virtual model of the physical production environment. This simulation can be used to experiment with different variables, such as staffing levels, machine placement, production volumes, and process flow. By optimising these factors in the digital realm, manufacturers can make more informed decisions before implementing changes in the real world.

4. Prediction: AI can predict future outcomes by leveraging both real and simulated data. For example, AI can forecast maintenance needs, enabling predictive maintenance that reduces downtime and minimises the risk of equipment failure. This predictive capability is essential for optimising production and reducing costs.

5. Autonomy: The final stage of the pyramid is autonomy, where machines communicate with each other, make real-time adjustments, and correct errors without human intervention. Examples include autonomous process tuning, automatic calibration, and machine-to-machine communication for seamless production flow.

While full autonomy remains a goal, many of these capabilities are already in use today, thanks to pioneers in AI for Surface Mount Technology (SMT) manufacturing.

Real-World AI Applications in SMT Manufacturing

A leading example of AI in SMT manufacturing comes from Koh Young, a company at the forefront of measurement-based inspection processes. Koh Young’s solutions generate vast amounts of data on products built in SMT lines, which can be leveraged to enhance production quality and efficiency.

While valuable on its own, data becomes exponentially more powerful when combined with AI tools like machine learning. For instance, inspection systems rely on test programs with set tolerances to ensure product quality. However, creating these programs can be challenging, especially when limited data is available, as is often the case during New Product Introductions (NPI). Insufficient data can result in weak inspection programs that either fail to catch defects or generate too many false alarms.

To overcome this, AI can generate additional data using technologies like Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). These AI-driven techniques can simulate thousands of products, effectively "training" the inspection system to perform better, even with limited initial data. The result is a more robust inspection process that reduces the likelihood of defects and minimises the burden of false positives on engineers.

Another example of AI in action is the optimisation of the interaction between screen printers and Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) machines. Traditionally, SPI systems would inspect solder paste deposits and flag issues for engineers to address manually. However, this process was time-consuming and relied heavily on the engineer’s experience.

Today, AI allows SPI systems and printers to communicate directly. The SPI system identifies issues and makes real-time adjustments to printer parameters, such as printing speed and pressure, ensuring optimal performance. This automated feedback loop reduces the need for manual intervention and enhances the overall efficiency of the production line.

The Future of AI in Electronics Manufacturing

Looking ahead, one AI-driven capability that has the potential to revolutionise production is mounter diagnosis. However, this technology may initially be limited to manufacturers with pre-reflow Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems, which require a significant investment. Despite the cost, the benefits are substantial.

Mounter diagnosis uses AI to analyse real-time production data and pinpoint the root causes of issues within the mounter, such as problems with the nozzle, head, feeder, reel, or component. By identifying the exact source of a problem, AI enables engineers to address issues quickly, reducing downtime and improving production quality. This capability is particularly valuable in high-volume manufacturing environments, where even minor disruptions can significantly impact overall efficiency.

These examples demonstrate that AI is not just a buzzword in electronics manufacturing—it is already delivering tangible benefits. From improving inspection accuracy to optimising machine interactions and diagnosing equipment issues, AI is helping manufacturers move closer to the vision of a smart factory.

The Future AI in Manufacturing

While the concept of a fully autonomous, "lights-out" factory may remain a distant goal, the advancements we are seeing in AI today are transforming the manufacturing landscape. AI is not something to be feared; rather, it should be embraced for its unprecedented opportunities.

Much like we wouldn’t revert to using an abacus instead of a calculator or drawing by hand instead of CAD software, AI is poised to replace many manual, time-consuming tasks. By alleviating the burden of repetitive, labour-intensive work, AI allows skilled workers to focus on higher-level challenges, ultimately driving innovation and efficiency in manufacturing.

As AI continues to evolve, the possibilities for its application in electronics manufacturing will only grow. The smart factory of the future may not be completely autonomous, but with the help of AI, it will be smarter, more efficient, and more capable than ever before.

Altus Welcomes a New Operations and Planning Assistant

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 07:15:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ella Gwilliam as their new Operations and Planning Assistant. She will play a key role in further strengthening the company’s capacity to support customers through improved project management and breakdown recovery.

Ella brings a wealth of experience to Altus, having previously worked in resource planning within the technology sector. Her background includes close collaboration with customers to assess issues and coordinating with engineering teams to deliver effective solutions. This experience will be invaluable as Altus continues its rapid growth and expands its network of partnerships.

Altus has seen sustained growth, with the number of machines supported by the company increasing year on year. The company is adding over 100 new machines annually, servicing both existing and new customers. Ella’s addition to the team is part of Altus’s broader strategy to bolster their operations and planning capabilities, ensuring they maintain high standards of support as their business evolves.

“Ella’s arrival marks an important step forward for our Aftersales and Engineering Support teams,” said Mike Todd, Operations and Planning Manager at Altus. “We’re pleased to have her on board, and I’m confident she will make a significant impact on the support side of our business.

“At Altus, we set the highest standards for customer service, and efficient operations and planning are vital to ensuring satisfaction, successful project delivery, and quick recovery from breakdowns. With the addition of Ella to the team, we are better equipped to handle the increasing demands as we continue to take on larger, more complex projects with a growing customer base. This is a strong move for our future!”

Ella’s ongoing onboarding process will equip her with a thorough understanding of Altus’ processes, so that she is ready to hit the ground running. Her addition represents just one of many new hires aimed at supporting Altus’s continued modernization and growth.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Danutek Expands its Technical Expertise

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 07:30:00 GMT

New Engineering Fire Power in Hungary

Danutek Hungary Kft., a leading supplier of capital equipment and service support to the European electronics manufacturing sector, has expanded its technical team to meet the increasing demand for advanced manufacturing solutions. With over a decade of industry experience, Zoltán Dávid joins the team to enhance service capabilities in the fast-evolving areas of coating, dispensing, and X-ray technologies.

This expansion aligns with Danutek Hungary's continued growth, particularly in dispensing technologies, supported by its strong partnership with Axxon Mycronic, a leading global supplier of dispense and conformal coating systems. As this partnership strengthens, more systems are being installed across the region.

Roland Losonczi, Technical Support Manager at Danutek Hungary Kft., said: “Finding the right person to join our team is critical for Danutek, as we hold ourselves to high standards. Technical knowledge is essential, but equally important are cultural fit and work ethic. While we are proud of our exceptional brands, the way we support our customers throughout the lifecycle of their machines is vital for securing repeat business. Zoltán has already proven to be a valuable addition, and I look forward to seeing how he continues to grow within our team, enhancing our ability to support end users.”

Zoltán’s addition comes in response to key industry trends, including the rising adoption of advanced dispensing systems across various electronics manufacturing sectors. At the same time, the demand for high-precision X-ray inspection solutions—such as X-ray counters, Batch 2D X-ray, Inline AXI X-ray, and CT X-ray units—has significantly increased. These developments have created a need for specialised technical support in implementing and maintaining these innovative technologies.

Danutek Hungary Kft. is at the forefront of advancements in the electronics industry. By expanding its technical team, the company demonstrates its commitment to providing effective solutions and exceptional support throughout the entire lifecycle of its equipment.

Altus Hosts Record-Breaking 'Factory of the Future' Event

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:30:00 GMT

The biggest and most engaged event we have ever hosted!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, in partnership with Fuji Corp., recently held its second ‘Factory of the Future’ event at the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Centre (AMTC) in Coventry. The two-day symposium marked a significant milestone as the largest event ever organised by Altus, showcasing the latest advancements in electronics manufacturing.

Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2022, this year's ‘Factory of the Future’ attracted over 200 participants and featured nearly 30 suppliers, offering hands-on experiences with nearly 40 unique processes. This expanded scale allowed attendees to explore a comprehensive range of technologies essential for SMT, NPI, and through-hole production lines, as well as component management and peripheral production.

The event introduced several innovations to the UK market for the first time, including the Scienscope Xspection 3000 Batch Xray, the Inertec Cube 460 selective soldering unit, the Koh Young Neptune Conformal Coating Inspection System, actnano's disruptive coating materials, and the YJ Link vision inspection buffer.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “What an incredible few days! Organising an event of this scale is a monumental effort, and the Altus team truly outdid themselves this time. The positive feedback from our customers and partners has been exceptional, and having over 200 participants is a clear indicator of our growing presence in the UK and Ireland. We’re excited to build on this momentum and turn the interest from the event into successful projects in the months ahead.”

Artur Tobolski, Fuji Regional Account Manager, said: “The Factory of the Future event was a tremendous success, bringing together top industry leaders and showcasing the latest innovations. It gave UK manufacturers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technology and gain insights into future trends. Fuji is proud to have partnered with Altus for this landmark event and looks forward to continuing our collaboration with the industry.”

The comprehensive program included 16 presentations from industry leaders, addressing several topics, including the future of electronics manufacturing and current industry trends and challenges. The timing of the event was particularly opportune, coinciding with a notable increase in capital equipment investment following the new government's election, which has contributed to enhanced stability and growing manufacturing demand.

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Group Introduces Innovative BGA Reballing Solution to Meet Growing Sustainability Demands

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 10:00:12 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has introduced an advanced BGA re-balling solution to address the electronics industry's growing focus on sustainability and cost-efficiency. Developed by their pre-eminent supplier, Essemtec, this innovative process offers manufacturers a new approach to component recovery and reuse, aligning with increasing market demands for environmentally conscious practices.

Building on their expertise in adaptive SMT equipment, Essemtec has designed a cutting-edge BGA re-balling process that consolidates flux deposition, ball placement, and soldering into a single streamlined solution. This all-in-one approach is particularly advantageous for high-volume OEMs and companies in sectors such as military, aerospace, computing, and communication, providing a cost-effective and sustainable method for component recovery and reuse.

Jiri Kucera, Operations Director at Altus Group, said: "Reworking BGAs, recovery of expensive parts, and re-use is becoming a highly discussed topic across the electronics industry as consumers become more interested in sustainability. This is another example of Essemtec developing a process to meet the needs of the market."

The new robotic process offers several advantages over traditional manual methods:

1. Increased precision and reliability.

2. Support for various ball sizes (250 µm to 1 mm+) and materials.

3. Improved success rates compared to manual stencil techniques.

4. Cost-effective reuse of expensive BGA components.

Jiri added, "Companies are already using the Essemtec jetting unit for BGA re-balling across a range of pitched components, giving partners the power to bring some of the recovery processes back in-house rather than outsource to partners at a higher cost."

This solution is particularly relevant for organisations prioritising environmental impact and sustainability. By extending the lifecycle of electronic components, the process contributes to waste reduction and promotes a more circular economy in electronics manufacturing.

Altus sees this technology as a significant step in meeting the electronic industry's evolving needs. As sustainability continues to gain importance, solutions like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of electronics manufacturing and repair.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Matt Fitzpatrick Joins the Sales Team

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 07:15:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading capital equipment distributor for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce the addition of a Senior Sales Manager to its growing team. With this appointment, Altus strengthens its sales force, now comprising of a six-person strong Sales Team.

Matthew Fitzpatrick, who will cover the north of the UK, brings a wealth of experience in account management and new business development, having successfully managed large-scale, technical projects in adjacent sectors. His expertise will be instrumental in enhancing Altus’ account management capabilities and expanding partnerships across the Northern region, where the electronics manufacturing sector is thriving.

“I am very pleased that we can bring someone of Matt's calibre into our organisation,” said Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group. “Matt has a proven track record of adding value to customer experiences and exceeding performance targets makes him a valuable addition to the team.

“With the North of the UK being a critical hub for electronics manufacturing, Matt’s expertise will be instrumental in supporting our suppliers and customers in the region. As he transitions into his role, I am confident that Matt will continue our momentum in driving growth, while also ensuring that our existing partners receive the exceptional service they have come to expect from Altus.”

The addition of Matthew reflects Altus’ commitment to providing the highest quality pre-sales and after-sales care. The company's partner list has grown exponentially over the past five years, and with increased capacity in pre-sales and account management, Altus ensures that customers receive exceptional project support, which is a significant reason for the growth they have witnessed.

Matthew added: “I’m excited to join Altus and eager to get started. The company’s clear mission to set new benchmarks in customer service is both inspiring and contagious. Altus already supports an impressive range of customers and works with industry-leading suppliers, which makes this role all the more appealing. I’m eager to dive into the technology and see how I can contribute to Altus' continued success.”

Matthew will undergo an extensive on-boarding process over the coming months, preparing him to support key accounts. Customers and suppliers will have the opportunity to meet him in person at Altus’ upcoming Factory of The Future taking place in September.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Strengthens its Partnership with Active-PCB Solutions Through Further Investment in Koh Young Technology

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 07:15:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics manufacturing industry in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce the successful installation of a second Koh Young Zenith 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) system at Active-PCB Solutions. This latest investment highlights Altus’ commitment to providing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and quality in the Electronics Manufacturing Services sector.

Active-PCB Solutions, a leading contract electronics manufacturer, previously invested in the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ AOI two years ago, achieving outstanding results with the initial system. Pleased with its performance, the company has now expanded its capabilities by adding a second unit. This new investment will further enhance their inspection processes, enabling comprehensive 3D inspection and meeting the demanding standards of modern electronics manufacturing.

Luke Minnis, Manufacturing Product and Process Engineer at Active-PCB, said: "I have been a Koh Young and Altus partner for many years now, and we are really happy to keep building on our partnership and to bring in another 3D AOI. This investment is a clear sign of our ambitions for the future and our desire to implement the best-in-class processes at our facility."

Anthony Oh, Technical Applications Manager at Altus Group, said: "It is always gratifying to receive repeat orders from our partners. This ultimately means the machine is generating the expected return on investment they had planned. Active-PCB is a significant player in the UK CEM space, so to have their continued trust and investment is something we are very proud of. We look forward to continuing to support them as they leverage the AOI platform to drive further improvements in their manufacturing processes."

The Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ is known for its high-speed, AI-driven 3D measurement capabilities. With a 4-projector setup using Digital Light Processing (DLP) technology, the system offers 15-micron resolution and full 3D metrology up to 25mm in height. These advanced features ensure precise and reliable inspection of complex assemblies, meeting rigorous quality standards.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus and Danutek Announce Strategic New Partnership with actnano

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:30:00 GMT

Altus Group and its sister company Danutek, renowned suppliers of capital equipment and service support to the electronics manufacturing sector, are pleased to announce their new partnership with actnano, a global leader in surface protection technologies. This collaboration aims to bring actnano’s cutting-edge Advanced NanoGUARD (ANG) coatings and other functional materials including permanent anti-fog, lubricants, and sealants to a broader audience across Europe.

actnano is at the forefront of coatings technology, providing fluorine-free, thin-film coatings that offer exceptional protection against water damage and harsh environmental conditions. Their innovative solutions, which require no masking or curing ovens, significantly reduce the capital expenditure, floor space, and energy consumption associated with traditional coating methods.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "actnano exemplifies the ideal partner for Altus and Danutek in our regions. Their approach, deep market understanding, and clear value proposition are truly impressive. Their unique product addresses critical pain points with a quantifiable ROI, making it highly attractive to customers. actnano's proven track record of securing business with major global brands and their strong references speak volumes. Initially, the concept of no masking and no curing ovens seemed almost too good to be true. However, their Munich lab, designed to support customers through technical validation, quickly demonstrated that this technology is just as ground-breaking in practice as it is in theory. actnano's innovation is not just exciting; it's revolutionising the industry."

"actnano is proud to work with Altus and Danutek, whose team has consistently earned customer trust by introducing cutting-edge technologies like Koh Young’s 3D AOI and LPKF’s laser depaneling to the European market. Their expertise in this area will make them a valued partner as we continue to expand across the region," said Sruti Balasubramanian, VP of Product Development at actnano.

Nic Johansen, actnano Director of Sales, commented, “Altus and Danutek excel in the regions they operate in, including their support for leading dispensing processes like PVA and Mycronic—making them a great match for us. This partnership accelerates our ongoing efforts across Europe with OEMs and manufacturers, and extends our reach and local support, especially in the UK and Eastern Europe, key areas for nearshoring and reshoring. Together, we're dedicated to driving the industry forward with innovative solutions, expert guidance, and a primary focus on customer success. The best is yet to come.”

actnano’s technology is particularly noteworthy due to its ability to simplify the application process by eliminating the need for masking and curing ovens. This innovation helps avoid common issues such as cracking and bubbling, which are prevalent with traditional methods. Furthermore, by reducing the need for extensive machine investment and floor space, and decreasing energy consumption over the product lifecycle, actnano provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for electronics manufacturers.

Their high protection standards offer up to IPx8 protection levels, applicable to full PCBA including connectors, antennas, LEDs, and high-heat generating components, while ensuring environmental safety with fluorine-free coatings.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group Strengthens Support Excellence with New Team Member

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce the addition of Michael Bowden to their team as a Service and Applications Engineer. This appointment aligns with Altus’ commitment to continuous improvement and exceptional customer service.

Michael Bowden joins Altus with a wealth of industry experience, having worked extensively in aftersales support for electronics manufacturers since 2006. His previous roles have equipped him with valuable skills and insights that will greatly benefit Altus’ growing installation base. Michael’s track record includes a comprehensive understanding of processes and extensive knowledge on pick-and-place systems, making him an important addition to the team.

Mike Todd, Operations and Planning Manager at Altus, said: “Adding someone of Michael’s calibre is really important as we continue to build out our team to support our customers for the next decade and beyond. Michael has a proven and trusted history within our niche industry. I am personally excited to see how he can contribute to our team and enhance our aftersales support capabilities.”

Michael will primarily support sites across the North of the UK from his base in Oldham, reflecting Altus’ vision for more localised and dedicated engineering support. His role will involve guiding customers through the entire lifecycle of their projects, from validation and implementation to ongoing usage.

This new hire underlines Altus’ dedication to being ‘Focused on Support Excellence’ and ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of industry developments. Over the past three years, Altus has expanded its partner network by over 100 sites. In response to this growth, the company is committed to enhancing its support team to maintain the high-quality service its customers expect.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Highlights Success of Essemtec's I2S in the UK and Ireland Market

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Brining Inspection capability to their All-In-One Machine!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to highlight the success of Essemtec's Integrated Inspection System (I2S). Since adding the I2S to its line-up at the end of 2023, they have seen significant positive feedback from customers in the sector.

Essemtec's I2S integrates 2D Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) and 2D Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI) within Surface Mount Technology (SMT) production machines. This system offers a streamlined approach to quality assurance, providing flexibility, improved productivity, and reliability. By incorporating inspection capabilities into their all-in-one solutions, Essemtec aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce floor space requirements.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "This is an option that the market for Essemtec machines has been calling out for. Many of our partners are accustomed to using inspection options in screen printers followed by a pre-reflow AOI for basic checks of solder presence and component presence, as well as polarity after placement. This functionality allows our MFC customers to solder jet, inspect solder, place components, and then inspect components in a single unit. It unlocks a greater level of both traceability and statistical process control that our customers need prior to adopting a higher technology standalone process like 3D SPI and AOI later in their production journey."

The I2S system uses advanced optical technology to inspect dispensed materials and placed components, allowing for automatic re-dispensing and re-inspection if defects are detected. This early detection helps increase yield and reduce scrap.

The I2S system logs data on failed cases and error interactions, enabling comprehensive analysis and continuous process improvement. The software interfaces are designed for easy setup and configuration, making it suitable for high-mix production environments. Existing Essemtec machines can be upgraded to include the I2S system, ensuring that current users can benefit from this innovative technology.

The I2S system enhances the quality of PCB assembly processes and leads to long-term cost savings by reducing defects, minimising rework, and preventing faulty products from reaching customers.

For more information about Essemtec's Integrated Inspection System (I2S), visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

The Importance of Top-Quality Distribution Partners in Achieving Manufacturing Excellence

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 07:00:00 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

The role of distributors in the electronics manufacturing industry is multifaceted and crucial. They serve as a vital link between manufacturers and cutting-edge technology, offering a range of services that go far beyond simple product distribution. By leveraging their expertise and resources, capital equipment distributors play a pivotal role in evaluating and selecting the best-in-class technology. This process involves rigorous pre-sales validation, ensuring that the technologies they recommend are not only innovative but also practical and effective for their client's specific needs. Furthermore, these distributors facilitate technology adoption, providing manufacturers with the support and guidance necessary to seamlessly integrate new systems and processes into their operations.

The Importance of Local Distributor Relationships

The relationship between electronics manufacturers and their local distributors is key to ensuring positive production outcomes and maintaining cutting-edge production facilities. Selecting and nurturing a relationship with local distribution partners is crucial for sites looking to manufacture to the highest standards. This comprehensive approach helps companies stay ahead in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving industry, enabling them to maintain a technological edge without the need to independently navigate the complex world of innovative equipment selection and implementation.

The Difference Between a Distributor and an Agent?

In the interest of full disclosure, the organisation I lead is regarded as one of, if not the largest, distributor of electronic manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland. To better understand the landscape, let's start by defining the difference between a distributor and an agent. A sales agent is an individual or company authorised to act on behalf of a manufacturer or supplier to sell products or services. They typically earn a commission on sales they generate. Sales agents do not usually take ownership of the products they sell. Instead, they facilitate transactions between the manufacturer and the end customer.

A distributor is a business entity that purchases products from manufacturers or suppliers and resells them to other businesses or end consumers. Distributors take ownership of the products, manage inventory, and handle logistics such as warehousing, shipping, and delivery. They often provide value-added services, including marketing, sales support, and technical assistance.

Global Supplier Dynamics and the Role of Local Distributors

In the case of electronics manufacturing, suppliers of processes utilised in electronic manufacturing come from across the world, with primary suppliers in the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Most of these suppliers have strategic and non-strategic markets. Strategic markets could be locations where they sell and support directly. For example, a Korean supplier may support the Korean market directly due to proximity, cultural similarity, time zone, and many other factors. Strategic markets are those with significant potential or that generate substantial revenue.

Because of its market potential, the UK is not always deemed strategic or generating enough revenue to support direct operations. Hence, there is a rise in local distributors who often support a range of suppliers, splitting the cost of sales and support against revenue generation potential across multiple suppliers. This results in capturing sales in the region for the supplier without the direct cost of doing business. It also offers the distributors a profitable business due to the reduced relative cost of generating revenue per supplier across their range.

The Comprehensive Role of Distributors

Moving forward, I will assume that a distributor is like Altus, one with a large team of industry experts to guide and support customers through pre-sales validation, implementation, and ongoing support of their processes. The distributor also offers value-added professional services to the market. Of course, not all distributors are created equal, and some will excel in different areas, but that is another topic.

A key benefit of distributors is their local presence, availability, cultural alignment, and use of the local language to communicate. This may seem mundane; however, not all suppliers have local partners. If you have purchased a machine made in China without a local partner, this point will resonate with you if you have ever had to fix a broken process with only a Chinese manual and an office open through the night local time. For serious manufacturers aiming for high uptime, a machine could be technologically head and shoulders above its peers but off the cards for investment if support is unavailable in their manufacturing country.

A significant value aspect is the support distributors can offer to de-risk a manufacturer's decision-making, offering pre-sales samples and process validation. They will offer not just a quote but a full project scope, guiding decision-makers through the considerations and pitfalls of the process, not just theoretically from a datasheet but from their real-life experience. They will also take real-world samples, run sample and process validation on their technology, offer hands-on live demonstrations, and support onsite process validations. A good distributor will have a showroom filled with technology and market knowledge. They will not rush for a purchase but rather explain the considerations and limitations so that the investment has as low a risk as possible for their manufacturing partner.

In addition to pre-sales value, there is also significant value in implementing the selected process into manufacturing. This could involve pre-preparation of the facility for the arrival of the process in terms of health and safety, logistics, services, and peripheral process impact. The distributor's role is to ensure that the process is implemented as easily and quickly as possible, including installation, training multiple stakeholders, programming, and an on-boarding plan. The better the distributor, the smoother the process and the quicker the manufacturer begins to see their return on investment.

Support for the ongoing process is vital. Local spares, available engineers for breakdown services, and routine preventative maintenance are crucial, especially when the machine's lifetime at your facility can range from 8 to 25+ years. High-quality support and aftercare determine the time a machine will perform optimally, so a thorough understanding of the machine and experience in maintaining the process is critical. This can be the difference between a machine barely returning on its investment and one that drives profitability into a site for decades.

Proactive Technology Promotion

Finally, the most significant value a distributor brings to keeping sites 'cutting edge' is proactively identifying the latest and greatest technology available globally and actively promoting it in their region and network. A distributor is only as good as their range of suppliers, so identifying the next market-disrupting process is paramount. The 'best' distributors will be approached by new technology suppliers or hunt out the best in the market, ensuring you hear about the latest technology before your competitors. These new processes might push manufacturing boundaries or offer huge cost savings, both of which can give a competitive advantage to the user. Distributors around the world are all looking for the next Koh Young, and given that suppliers impact on our business over the last decade, I can’t blame them ��

Altus Group Introduces Scienscope Smart Rack for Feeders to Enhance SMT Production Efficiency

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:55:41 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has expanded its portfolio with the addition of Scienscope's Smart Rack for Feeders. This innovative system is designed to revolutionise SMT material management by addressing key challenges in the electronics manufacturing industry.

Building on the success of their user-friendly Smart Rack for Reels and the fully traceable Smart Rack for Stencils, Scienscope continues to deliver advanced solutions that address everyday challenges in the electronics industry. The Smart Rack for Feeders aims to streamline production lines and support operators with its range of benefits.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "We are pleased to incorporate the Scienscope Smart Rack for Feeders into our portfolio. This system demonstrates the type of continuous innovation we aim to provide to our customers. It offers practical benefits such as improved workflow and reduced operator workload, while also equipping management with traceability data to enhance decision-making. We believe this addition will greatly benefit our customers’ operations and set a new standard in SMT material management.”

The Smart Rack for Feeders optimises workflows, ensuring smoother production processes and minimises downtime through changeovers. By automating routine tasks and increasing traceability, the system significantly reduces the time taken and risk for operators, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks and enhancing overall productivity. Additionally, the comprehensive information provided by the system enables management teams to make informed, data-driven decisions, leading to improved performance and efficiency.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Enhances Sustainability with Kolb’s Recyclable Packaging

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:40:43 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce that its pre-eminent supplier, kolb Cleaning Technology, has transitioned to fully recyclable packaging for several of their cleaning products. This change aligns with Altus' commitment to providing sustainable solutions in the electronics manufacturing industry.

kolb has introduced recyclable packaging for their ContraFlux® and MultiEx® cleaners, as well as most of their special cleaners. These products will now be delivered in grey canisters made from 100% recycled material, replacing the previous blue containers.

This initiative represents a step forward in reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility. The recyclable canisters can be easily processed locally after use, contributing to resource conservation.

??? Altus said: "At Altus, we strive to offer our customers high-quality products that meet their diverse needs. We're pleased to support kolb's transition to recyclable packaging for their some of their cleaning products. This change allows us to better serve our customers who are increasingly looking for more sustainable options in their manufacturing processes, without compromising on performance or quality."

Altus' commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by their recent addition of kolb's award-winning WPCL-EU module to their product portfolio. This innovative 'zero discharge' rinse water treatment module enhances Altus' ability to offer cutting-edge, environmentally friendly solutions to their customers.

By offering kolb's products with recyclable packaging and sustainable cleaning technologies, Altus continues to provide environmentally responsible options for the electronics manufacturing sector.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Introduces Robotic Conformal Coating/Dispensing System to Enhance Manufacturing Efficiency

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of production equipment in the UK and Ireland, addresses the need for increased efficiency and reduced labour in electronics manufacturing with the introduction of the Delta 6 robotic conformal coating/dispensing system from PVA.

Electronics manufacturers facing highly labour-intensive processes such as masking components and hand spraying conformal coatings can address that burden with an automated solution. It is clear that manufacturers in the UK & Ireland are grappling with a shortage of available highly skilled labour to support these processes, and sees the PVA Delta 6 a great solution to assist in streamlining processes and improving efficiency.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "Many manufacturers rely on traditional manual methods that are extremely labour-intensive and can lead to inconsistencies. The Delta 6 provides an automated alternative, allowing these critical coating and dispensing processes to be brought in-house with minimal labour while ensuring high repeatability."

The PVA Delta 6 features a three-axis motion platform with servo-controlled motion featuring valve tilt and rotate. Designed for selective coating, potting, bead dispensing, and meter-mix dispensing in both inline and batch production environments, it offers high accuracy, consistent process control across the gantry system, and the ability to handle multiple applications or materials.

"For manufacturers looking to improve efficiency and cut costs, automating labour-intensive processes is crucial," said Joe. "The Delta 6's flexibility, small footprint, robust construction, and versatile programming make it an ideal solution to reduce labour demands."

Engineered to excel in selective conformal coating and dispensing tasks within moderate to high volume manufacturing settings, the PVA Delta 6 offers enhanced accuracy and repeatability. To find out more about PVA Delta 6 and other labour-saving equipment visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Danutek Celebrates its 20 Anniversary

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Danutek, a leading supplier of capital equipment and service support to the electronics manufacturing sector in Europe, proudly marks its 20th anniversary this year. To commemorate this significant milestone, members of the Danutek team attended the InnoElectro event in Budapest, Hungary, one of the region's most prominent gatherings for the electronics manufacturing industry.

Over the past two decades, Danutek has established a strong presence in 10 countries, becoming a trusted partner for over 300 customers and successfully installing more than 3,000 machines. This impressive growth is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and exceptional customer service.

At InnoElectro 2024, Danutek Kft. showcased a comprehensive range of equipment for the electronics industry. Highlights included Scienscope smart racks and goods-in scanning tables, Techvalley X-ray component counters, Koh Young's SPI, AOI, and conformal coating inspection systems, and the Axonn Mycronic conformal coating unit. These cutting-edge technologies reflect Danutek’s dedication to providing advanced solutions to its customers.

Richard Booth, CEO of Danutek, said: "It really is amazing to step back and look at the progression of Danutek and our organisation. I am incredibly proud of the local team and what they have been able to achieve.

“Danutek is one of the most successful organisations in their respective regions, and we have supported a terrific number of customers and successful projects over those years. I would like to think we've made a very positive impact on electronics manufacturing in the region with our support and dedication. Here's to another 20 years of success and innovations!"

As Danutek looks ahead, the company remains steadfast in its mission to support and contribute to the growth of the electronics manufacturing industry in Europe.

Altus Equips SSTL with Advanced Cleaning Technology for Electronics that are Out of this World

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:46:35 GMT

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics manufacturing industry, has announced the successful installation of an advanced PCBA cleaning system at Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL). The Kolb PSE LH5 will optimise SSTL's critical cleaning processes for their sophisticated electronics applications.

SSTL is renowned for delivering complete mission solutions and is at the forefront of space innovation. Their customised systems for earth observation, science, communications, navigation, in-orbit debris removal and servicing, requires electronics of the highest quality and reliability. As a result, SSTL's production processes must meet exceedingly stringent standards, which includes their electronics cleaning processes.

Altus has a long-standing partnership with SSTL, having previously supplied them with cleaning equipment. As SSTL sought to modernise and optimise its PCBA cleaning process for its critical space and satellite applications, they selected Kolb's industry-leading PSE LH5 system as the ideal solution.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We have seen a number of Kolb cleaning projects come through in 2023 and even the start of 2024, but being able to secure a partnership with a world-class company like SSTL is particularly significant. SSTL is truly a jewel of UK electronics manufacturing. The nature of their products demands production quality at the highest possible level, so being selected by them to enhance their production process shows the confidence and technical value they place in Kolb's cleaning solutions and in Altus as a trusted supplier."

The Kolb PSE LH5 boasts unique features and advanced engineering, setting it apart as a top-tier solution for precision cleaning in electronics manufacturing. Manufactured entirely in Germany, Kolb's expertise spans chemistry and cleaning systems, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the cleaning process. The PSE LH5 offers a highly capable cleaning process tailored for products with smaller board sizes, making it an ideal choice for SSTL's exacting requirements.

Adam Chudziak from SSTL said: "The quality and reliability of our satellite electronics are absolutely critical to mission success. After a comprehensive evaluation, the Kolb PSE LH5 system supplied by Altus Group was the clear choice to modernise our PCBA cleaning capabilities. We have full confidence it will enable us to uphold and enhance our meticulous cleaning processes moving forward."

This fully automatic economy batch cleaner is designed to deliver exceptional cleaning performance for assembled PCBs. With a high-capacity cleaning cycle, the PSE LH5 thoroughly removes misprints from reflow flux residues, resin, copper, oxide, and soldering support substances. Its innovative features, including a two-tank system with triple-circuit function, automatic monitoring of ionic residues, and high-resolution display for software control, guarantee efficient and reliable cleaning processes.

www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus and Fuji Bring 'Factory of the Future' Vision to Life With Technology Event

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Tue, 28 May 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, together with Fuji Corp., principal manufacturer of SMT and assembly machines and tools, have announced they will once again host the ‘Factory of the Future’ technolog y event. The two-day symposium on 11-12 September at the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Centre (AMTC) in Co ventry will showcase emerging trends and the latest innovations transforming the electronics manufacturing industry .

Building on the success of the 2022 inaugural Factory of the Future , which welcomed over 125 industry professionals, this year's event agenda will feature 16 expert-led sessions spanning the full range of electronics production processes and technologies. Attendees will gain insights from over 25 leading suppliers like Koh Young, PVA , Heller Industries, Essemtec, and Asscon , who will present their cutting-edge products and solutions through hands-on demonstrations.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "It is our mission to be the best at what we do for the customers we serve, and I believe that we can offer a huge amount of value to our partners outsi de of our day to day operations by hosting and investing in events like this one .

“Our customers are always interested in best practices or what is new, and these events allow them to network, learn, understand future roadmaps, and leave with many ideas they can apply to their facility. Hugely popular in our first year and exceeding our expectations, we have increased the capacity to 250 guests if needed, so I can't wait to make it a couple of days to remember."

Artur Tobolski, Fuji Regional Account Manager added: "The last Factory of the Future event in 2022 seems like only yesterday, but I can't wait for it to return in 2024. The event is jam-packed for those who attend, and the line-up is as good as you will see at any European exhibition.

"Having all those industry leaders in Coventry for two full days, with their latest and greatest equipment, giving keynotes is brilliant for UK manufacturers looking to level up their production facilities. Fuji will be there in full force with Altus, and it is going to be a great chance to connect with current partners, showcase your latest technology, learn about industry trends, and have a good time doing it." 

With over 25 exhibitors and limited capacity, manufacturing professionals are encouraged to register early for the Factory of the Future event. The full agenda will be released in the coming weeks. For more information, visit www. altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Equips SSTL with Advanced Cleaning Technology for Electronics that are Out of this World

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Fri, 17 May 2024 08:38:48 GMT

New Kolb for SSTL

www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Adds PVA's Game Changing PathMaster X Software to Portfolio

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Fri, 17 May 2024 08:07:04 GMT

A New Era of Coating Programming

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has announced the addition of PVA's new PathMaster X software to its product port folio. PathMaster X transforms programming for PVA's conformal coating and dispensing systems with an intuitive, game-like controller interface.

PathMaster X is the next generation of Windows-based programming software from PVA, a leading manufacturer of conformal coating and dispensing systems. It provides greater control, advanced programming, and a fully configurable platform tailored to individual production needs .

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We're excited to offer the new PVA PathMaster X. This innovative software delivers an unparalleled user experience by combining advanced programming capabilities with gaming-inspired controls. Our customers will find PathMaster X in credibly easy to use for optimis ing their co ating and dispensing processes.

"Altus Group customers now have access to PVA's innovative PathMaster X for simplifying their coa ting and dispensing operations. This software meets the high standards of innovation and performance our customers have come to expect."

The PVA X-Pad controller and touchscreen monitor allow machine operation, programming, and monitoring through an intui tive interface. Users can utilis e the gaming controller-style interface with custom virtual buttons for an engaging programming experience akin to playing a video game .

PathMaster X offers a configurable workspace for conformal coating, dispensing, and custom applications. Its advanced online/offline programming enables users to program from anywhere. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface, custom overlays for valve size/pattern width, and other intelligent features streamline programming workflow.

www. altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group Helps BitBox Unlock Productivity and Efficiency Gains with New Convection Reflow Oven

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:20:38 GMT

New Heller, New User!

Altus Group, a leading provider of capital equipment, has recently assisted BitBox, a UK-based electronics design, engineering and manufacturing company with over 25 years’ experience in upgrading its operations with the implementation of a new reflow oven from Heller Industries. The advanced system promises to further enhance BitBox's production capabilities by optimising throughput, refining process control, and increase energy efficiency.

With over 25 years in product design and manufacturing services, BitBox has consistently prioritised meeting the evolving needs of its customers. Recognising the importance of enhancing its Surface Mount Technology (SMT) reflow oven capabilities to align with growing demand, BitBox conducted a thorough evaluation process. Subsequently, with the help of Altus Group, the Heller 1826 MK7 was chosen as the ideal choice.

"The Heller 1826 MK7 delivers superior reflow oven performance through its extended heated tunnel, additional zones, faster throughput, and precise process controls," said Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group. "We are pleased to provide this solution to support BitBox's manufacturing expansion."

The Heller 1826 MK7 is engineered to maximize process efficiency and control. Its advanced low Delta T design achieves industry-leading thermal uniformity across 8 heated zones, enabling enhanced product quality while supporting precise profiling within strict process controls. The innovative flux management system incorporates a proprietary flux collection design, trapping residue for safe removal without shutting down the oven.

"We are delighted to have made this investment in upgrading and enhancing our convection reflow capabilities at BitBox," said Jonathan Green, Manufacturing Manager at BitBox. "Heller's reputation as a provider in the industry is outstanding, and we've tailored the system to maximize future-proofing options and deliver significant value to our customer base."

BitBox's investment in the Heller 1826 MK7 addresses key operational challenges and positions the company for continued growth. With increased throughput capacity, optimised uptime, energy efficiency gains, and data-driven quality focus, BitBox can scale up production volumes, maintain stringent quality standards, and realise cost savings through optimised energy efficiency.

"It's been a pleasure to support BitBox every step of the way," added Joe Booth. "Their dedication has been commendable, and I eagerly anticipate the exciting projects ahead with the BitBox team."

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Adds MagicRay Through-Hole Inspection to Product Line-Up

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 07:21:27 GMT

V320 pre-reflow THT AOI

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has added to their product line-up with MagicRay’s latest innovation in inspection, the V320 THT Pre-Reflow AOI system. The V320 is specifically designed for through-hole technology (THT) assembly processes and will enable comprehensive inspection capabilities for electronics manufacturers utilising THT components on their printed circuit boards.

Many UK companies still rely significantly on through-hole assembly, with skilled operators manually placing components before wave, selective or robotic soldering. This process risks human errors like component defects and solder faults. The MagicRay V320 THT AOI system addresses these quality challenges with intelligent pre-reflow optical inspection.

The V320 features a large field-of-view to efficiently inspect assemblies. Its dual-sided inspection capability allows it to examine both the top and bottom sides of boards for any defects. The system leverages AI-based programming and big data learning algorithms to accurately identify component polarity and automatically classify component types for detecting missing, incorrectly oriented, or misplaced parts as well as solder defects like bridging or insufficient joint formation with their other post reflow solutions.

"I'm really excited to offer the MagicRay V320 to our customers to increase quality and traceability for their through-hole assembly," said Jiri Kucera, Operations Director at Altus Group. "Many companies still populate a significant number of through-hole components manually, which increases the risk of human errors and defects. Whether customers need to detect polarity issues, missing components, or just want to increase traceability, the V320 provides a specialised solution to support quality for THT assembly."

With fast programming and automated capabilities, the V320 supports high-mix production and rapid changeovers inspection up to 10 applications simultaneously. It provides full traceability through integrated barcode scanning. The high-speed, non-stop inspection capability ensures quality while maximising throughput.

"We've already seen strong demand for this specialised THT inspection solution in the UK market. With the V320, our customers can leverage comprehensive AOI to control quality and reduce costs for their through-hole assembly processes," said Jiri.

The MagicRay V320 THT AOI system is available now from Altus Group. For more information, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Record Interest Fuels Successful Show for Altus

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:36:35 GMT

Southern Show Excitement

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics production equipment, has returned from the highly anticipated 2024 Southern Manufacturing & Electronics exhibition, held in Farnborough, with notable success. Building upon last year's achievements, Altus expanded its presence, showcasing eight key processes and the latest innovations in electronics manufacturing.

The highlighted technologies included the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ AOI inspection solution for automated optical inspection. Altus also displayed the versatile KSMART software for collecting, analysing and optimising PCBA processes to improve quality and efficiency.

Additional advanced systems covered critical electronics production processes - from soldering, dispensing and inspection to board handling and assembly. Notable equipment on Altus’ stand included the Asscon vapour phase reflow soldering unit for lead-free soldering, the PVA precision dispensing technology making its Altus debut, the Quins inspection system for high-resolution image capture, and the YJ Link automated board handling system.

Essemtec’s Fox 2 multi-function SMT Assembly machine for high-mix, low-volume production lines and Promation’s modular robotic soldering solutions also drew great interest from visitors.

“We were pleased to showcase our expanded range of innovations in electronics production equipment at this year’s Southern Manufacturing exhibition,” said Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group. “The exceptional engagement we received shows the increasing demand for advanced solutions as electronics manufacturers seek to improve quality, efficiency and automation in their production processes. The UK is a very optimistic place to manufacture electronics currently. The team look forward to many productive customer conversations and potential new partnerships moving through the rest of the year.”

With Altus achieving record UK and Ireland sales in 2023, they are poised for further growth from the connections made and sales initiated at the 2024 Southern Manufacturing & Electronics exhibition.

For further information visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus is Ready to “Take-Off” at MicroTech 2024

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 09:24:26 GMT

Altus will be exhibiting in early April at the Semicon focused event

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry will be exhibiting at the iMAPS -UK MicroTech 2024 conference on April 10th at the Aerospace Bristol Museum. The event, titled "Is Advanced Packaging Ready for Take Off? ” will provide a platform for Altus to highlight its cutting-edge solutions for advanced packaging processes and technology within the region's electronics sector.

As both Altus Group and its suppliers closely follow developments in microelectronics and semiconductor packaging, the company is well-positioned to support the growing demand for these technologies in the UK and Ireland. Through its diverse portfolio of equipment and consumables, Altus enables manufacturers to streamline processes such as dispensing, reflow, and inspection – key aspects of the packaging process . This enhances efficiency and ensures quality standards are maintained .

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We are excited to participate in MicroTech 2024 for the first time . This event aligns perfectly with our goal of supporting the advancement of semiconductor capabilities in the region. We look forward to showcasing the latest products from our suppliers and engaging with industry leaders shaping the future of this vital sector."

At the event, Altus Group will exhibit solutions from its prominent global partn ers, including advanced 3D and x -ray inspection systems, efficient component management, soldering solutions, and consumables for streamlined production. Visitors can explore the company's comprehensive equipment portfolio, tailored to meet the diverse requirements of electronic manufacturing processes.

"The whole world is paying attention to the word 'semiconductor' these days, and the advancements in the semiconductor space regionally have been very interesting to watch," said Joe . "The making of semiconductors has a vast array of processes, but specifically semiconductor packaging processes are a real sweet spot for Altus and our suppliers.

"Our suppliers are actively developing solutions to address manufacturers' needs, while many of our current customers transitioning into Microelectronics are expanding their capabilities to leverage the growing tren d of increasing local capacity. I am delighted to contribute to this event, engage with industry stakeholders, and network with key players to gain insights into their challenges. It's essential for us to explore how we can support bringing more opportunities to our shores."

To find out more about Altus’ portfolio of products designed to support advanced packaging processes and technology visit the team at iMAPS -UK MicroTech 2024 conference on April 10th at the Aerospace Bristol Museum.

For further information visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Celebrates Sales Success with ASSCON

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:25:18 GMT

UK & Irish Top International Market

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, is pleased to announce notable sales achievements in partnership with ASSCON. Since joining forces in 2021 to bring ASSCON’s vapour phase technology to the UK and Ireland, their collaboration has led to significant market penetration and unprecedented year-over-year growth. Driven by increasing demand across key segments, they have seen record-breaking unit sales in 2023.

Altus’ decision to further enhance their reflow offerings with ASSCON's market-leading vapour phase technology has proven to be a strategic move. ASSCON's continuous innovation and commitment to technological advancement have resulted in a surge in demand for their products.

Last year, the UK and Ireland emerged as the top export market for ASSCON globally, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Altus Group team. Sales were predominantly driven by the popularity of ASSCON's flagship products such as the VP510 and VP800, alongside advanced systems including the VP6000 and the recently introduced inline VP2100-100, which thanks to its space-saving design, can be easily integrated into any assembly line.

The increasing demand for vapour phase technology stems from its ability to deliver exceptional results, particularly in applications requiring very low voiding and accommodating complex board designs with significant component thermal mass variance. This trend has been particularly pronounced in the Contract Electronics Manufacturing (CEM) market, where companies are looking to mitigate risks associated with future proofing for unknowns and voiding.

"It has been a breakthrough year for adopting vapour phase technology," said Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO. "Considering we only partnered with ASSCON in 2021, with no real expertise in process knowledge but a strong install base, it's incredible that through dedicated collaboration, we are now their number one global export market.

“We see Asscon as long-time industry partners, and we share pride in pioneering this technology locally and bringing its benefits to manufacturers across the UK and Ireland. With the current momentum, we are poised for an even stronger 2024.

Tobias Tuffentsammer, ASSCON Head of Global Sales, added: "Wow, what a year for ASSCON vapour phase sales in the UK and Ireland. We had high hopes given Altus' strong reputation before partnering, but 2023 really exceeded our expectations.

“We are extremely happy with our product portfolio and the investments we have made into R&D including the recently launched VP810 with its new options functionality and the VP2100-100 inline unit which has sold very well. By leveraging Altus' strong regional presence, our reach has expanded tremendously - allowing so many more manufacturers to benefit from ASSCON systems. This collaboration, enhanced by Altus' exceptional customer support resources, has proven to be a winning formula."

Kolb Cleaning & Altus Form a New Partnership with Leading Manufacturer Active-PCB Solutions

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:17:54 GMT

Taking PCBA Cleaning to The Next Level

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce a new partnership for Kolb Cleaning in the UK and first order with Reading-based contract manufacturer Active-PCB Solutions Ltd. After a thorough evaluation process of several customer variants, the company has invested in a Kolb cleaning system to enhance its cleaning processes further.

The partnership originated from discussions between Altus Group and Active-PCB Solutions at the 2023 Southern Manufacturing and Electronics exhibition. As an established leader in the EMS market offering responsive, fast-turn solutions for small to medium-batch, high-complexity assemblies, Active-PCB Solutions were looking to add to their PCBA cleaning capabilities.

Active-PCB Solutions conducted an extensive review of options to ensure quality and reliability in its production cleaning processes. After careful consideration, the company selected the innovative Kolb PSE LH7, known for its impressive cleaning finish and technical performance. The decision was guided by the machine's capability to integrate both cutting-edge cleaning systems and chemistry, the detailed pre-sales communication, and extensive support provided by Altus Group, making the Kolb PSE LH7 the ideal choice for advancing their cleaning procedures.

“I am really pleased for Active-PCB Solutions and their team on this latest investment with us,” said Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group. “They took a well-planned, thorough approach to selecting the right supplier and system. Kolb is an exemplary supplier that goes to great depths to explain not just the systems and chemistries they offer, but also the considerations and pitfalls of PCBA cleaning. This service makes a huge difference to our customers.

“We eagerly anticipate the installation of the new Kolb AQUBE® LH7, contributing to Active-PCB's ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing product quality.”

Luke Minnis, Manufacturing Product and Process Engineer at Active-PCB, added: "We are very happy to begin this partnership with Altus Group and invest in new cleaning technology. Throughout the project, Altus and Kolb have been great to work with. We’re looking forward to the new system enhancing our production and delivering great results. Based on the validation tests, and through our relationship with Altus, we feel confident in the ongoing support."

Kolb PSE LH7 is a fully automatic, high-volume cleaning system selected for its next-generation PCB cleaning capabilities. The two-tank, triple-circuit function configuration with ClosedLoop water reprocessing, ensures short cycle times and makes this system the perfect economical choice for the precision cleaning of assembled PCBs.

With a large capacity and quick cycle time, it will enable Active PCB to deliver finished products of the highest quality efficiently.

A Case for Positivity in the Future of UK and Irish Electronics Manufacturing

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 11:02:25 GMT

It strikes me that negative news and thoughts that turn the sky grey are more powerful; they hit more headlines, travel further, and linger longer than optimistic ones and turn the sky blue. I guess that is something about our mind set and evolution that I am not best placed to answer, however I am keen to share some of the positive news we see from the coalface of electronics manufacturing in the UK and Ireland.

I say in the coal face because Altus Group Ltd and Altus Electronics Ireland are in that position. Supplying electronics manufacturers with capital equipment and pre and post sales support services means our business is strongly tied to macro-economic trends. When the economy and demand is up, companies buy capital equipment to make the electronics in demand. When the economy is down, they don’t. This means we have a finger on the pulse of economic momentum far before it hits the headlines.

While there is a valid case for scepticism, I aim to demonstrate in the following paragraphs why there is ample cause for optimism. To provide some context, it’s worth noting that 2023 marked a historic milestone as our revenue reached an all-time high in the history of Altus Group in the UK and Ireland, with the preceding year having already set a record. This indicates that the market for investing in electronics equipment is thriving making a compelling case for our optimistic outlook.

This year has been a standout year for many reasons, but the most important factor for the success has been the re-shoring of production to our region. While the pandemic, de-globalisation, fuel price increases, and escalating global tensions are inherently contentious and challenging subjects, there is undeniable evidence of their significant impact in fostering the growth of manufacturing in the UK.

There has been re-shoring to local Contract Electronics Manufacturers (CEMs), of which there are many in the UK and Ireland, and investment in in-house capabilities by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Last year many new manufacturing facilities were established with more planned for 2024. This trend is significant as it not only benefits new staff and local community of the manufacturer, but also positively impacts the entire supply chain for the foreseeable future. The establishment of a single Surface Mount Technology (SMT) line and the construction of a new building at an OEM includes many economic activities, encompassing various trades; building materials, staffing needs, software development, legal services, accounting requirements, capital equipment procurement, component parts acquisition, consumables, contracted sub-assemblies, support for local businesses and a myriad of other interconnected elements.

The shortage of skilled labour exasperated by workers departing the UK for EU post-Brexit and amid the challenges of covid has meant that companies have made strategic investments in automation. This proactive approach aims to address gaps in availability of staff effectively. While capital equipment may carry the perception of being costly, it often represents a smart investment into automation enhancing production speed, improving quality, and reducing risk. It also frequently yields a quicker ROI than expected. Consequently, this makes the service more appealing to potential applications, paving the way for increased business from local, regional, or international markets in the future.

This amplifies the impact of re-shoring efforts as the price delta between local and the eastern manufacturing reduces. The investment in automation not only streamlines processes but also generates opportunities for higher-skilled roles which require more training and education, accompanied by higher salaries, making the manufacturing industry more attractive to a younger demographic.

Moreover, there is an influx of young skilled people entering and leaving the education system making their mark in our industry. From diverse backgrounds including software development, electro-mechanical, mechanical, and entrepreneurial background, are acknowledging the ubiquitous presence of electronics in our daily lives.

The government has also taken long overdue steps to make our investment environment more competitive supporting capital equipment investments, further helping ROI, with the aim of increasing the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP. The introduction of the super deduction to support capital equipment investments, together with ongoing tax relief schemes has enhanced the attractiveness of investing in capital equipment.

Many investment projects are benchmarked around a specific ROI duration. Undoubtedly, these incentives are playing a crucial role in reducing the timeline for achieving that return. There are also significant grants available in almost every region to fund projects, and some of my partners have been incredibly successful securing as much as 50% funding of investments. This level of financial support is particularly invaluable for small, privately owned CEMs, empowering them to augment their capabilities and better serve their end customers.

While it’s not always talked about, a pivotal contributor to recent successes in the regional electronics industry is our robust military manufacturing capabilities. It is an unfortunate reality that around the world, there is a consistent deployment of weaponry. Given the increased tensions and the rhetoric signalling a ‘war footing’, we are seeing unprecedented investments into military equipment to replenish what is being used, but also to stockpile in anticipation of escalating tensions.

Locally, industry giants like MBDA, BAE, Plexus, Ultra, and Thales are at the forefront of military manufacturing. Their high-tech products are in global demand and these OEMs strategically leverage in-house production and collaborate with high-end CEMs. The resulting contracts, known for their high value and long term nature, boost many manufacturing organisations in their supply chain. Although I would of course prefer more peaceful times globally, it is clear that this increase in military spending will have a profound impact on electronics manufacturing locally for a long time to come.

As I said from the start, there are certainly grounds for scepticism, and I acknowledge that the reality often lies somewhere in between the optimistic and pessimistic perspectives. However, I hope that the insights shared above offer a glimpse into some compelling reasons to be optimistic about the future of electronics, coming from a company actively engaged in the industry across Europe. We remain hopeful that the momentum in the local electronics manufacturing market continues to build and 2024 will mark another record breaking year.

Danutek Opens State-of-the-Art Facility in Romania

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:25:16 GMT

New Infrastructure to Support More Value

Danutek Balkans Srl , a leading distributor and service provider in the electronics PCBA manufacturing industry is pleased to announce the inauguration of their new purpose-built headquarters and demonstration centre in Timisoara, Romania. The opening of this facility represents a significant strategic investment into Danutek’s future, enabling the company to deliver enhanced services to customers and suppliers .

The state-of-the-art facility boasts cutting-edge technology, enabling interactive equipment demonstrations, hands-on sample testing, and training sessions – all away from the pressure of the production floor. This innovative approach promises to transform the pre-sales and post-sales experience, streamlining decision-making and fostering deeper customer-supplier relationships.

"I am really pleased with our new headquarters and the renewed energy it has brought to the Danutek Team ,” said Marian Gavrilia , General Manager of Danutek .

“ This facility is something to be proud of, offering an outstanding venue to showcase our solutions to partners and enhance the overall pre and post-sales e xperience . I eagerly anticipate the opportunities this space offers to host customers for equipment demonstrations, not to mention provide best-in-class sample testing and hands-on product experiences away from the production line."

The new headquarters represents a key milestone for Danutek Balkans Srl as the company looks to solidify its leadership in Romania's electronics manufacturing sector. The facility will allow Danutek to further develop relationships across the electronics manufacturing community. As Danutek's capabilities and reach expand from this new centre , the company is strategically positioned to deliver best-in-class service and accelerate growth throughout Romania and the broader Balkans region.

www.danutek.com

Altus Expands its Presence at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics to Showcase Advanced Technologies Stand J80

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:59:50 GMT

Come meet with our team!

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, is pleased to announce their return to the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics exhibition from 6th - 8th February 2024 at Farnborough , booth J80, with an even bigger presence. After exceptional interest and record sales in 2023, Altus has expanded its stand to showcase eight key processes and the latest technology innovations.

One highlighted technology is the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ AOI, a true 3D AOI solution powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning. The Zenith Alpha has proven to deliver outstanding performance leveraging true 3D measurement technology, making it a crucial component for ultra-fine pitch and solder joint interreflection challenges. Additionally, Altus will showcase the KSMART software, an innovative solution for data collection, analysis, and PCBA process optimisation.

"We were completely overwhelmed by the interest at last year's show and knew we had to come back bigger and better," said Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO. "This year, we've doubled our stand size so even more customers can get hands-on with the latest equipment transforming electronics production."

“Our expanded floor space will showcase a broader spectrum of advanced equipment, including technologies like Koh Young AOI, Essemtec SMT Assembly, and Asscon Vapour Phase. We are especially excited about introducing PVA, our newest supplier, at the exhibition. The entire sales team will be on hand to provide in-depth insights into our showcased processes, fostering valuable interactions with both partners and potential prospects. We look forward to seeing you there! “

Among the featured technologies will be the versatile Asscon VP510 top-loaded vapour phase system. This system was particularly attractive and purchased in 2023, with its compact design and optional integrable cooling system, it is ready to use anywhere and suitable for a variety of soldering processes.

Making its debut on the Altus stand is the PVA Dispensing Unit, a flexible dispensing solution ideal for selective conformal coating, potting, and precision dispensing. Its advanced technology ensures consistent, high-quality conformal coating for superior circuit board protection.

Altus will also exhibit the Quins Inspection System, which simplifies inspections with high-resolution images and an intuitive optical inspection environment. The system is designed for quick and easy setup, ensuring efficient inspections.

With its advanced features, the YJ Link Board Handling system will be on display, highlighting its essential role in controlling the flow of PCBs in an automatic assembly line. Its incorporation into the process ensures consistent and efficient operations, achieving the highest possible throughput.

Essemtec Fox 2 (MFC) Multifunctional Standalone Modules will also be on the stand. After a strong performance in 2023, with Altus achieving the largest sales quarter in the UK and Ireland, this smart-sized modular pick-and-place machine is dedicated to high-mix, low-volume production, meeting the flexible requirements of customers.

Promation Robotic Soldering solutions will also be exhibited, offering various modular robots and fully automated lines for various applications. The technology provides advanced solutions for precise and efficient soldering processes.

To find out more about Altus’ newest equipment additions, visit stand during the Southern Manufacturing and Electronics exhibition, Farnborough from 6th to 8th February 2024.

For further information visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Announces Distribution Agreement with PVA in the UK and Ireland

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 08:38:46 GMT

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has partnered with PVA, a global provider of automated dispensing solutions. This new distribution agreement will enable Altus to supply PVA's innovative products to manufacturers across the UK and Ireland.

PVA offers flexible robotic solutions ideal for selective coating, potting, and precision dispensing. Their advanced technology ensures consistent, high-quality conformal coating for superior circuit board protection.

"We are pleased to be partnering with Altus and entering this new chapter together,” said Pieter Van Der Vorst, Europe Regional Sales Manager, PVA.

“Altus has been investing heavily in the region and due to their esteemed range of suppliers and reputation for aftercare, they are a company that has a lot of momentum and customer growth compared to other companies. We believe that the combination of PVA and Altus, offers significant value to existing and potential partners in the market for our processes in the UK and Ireland."

This partnership aligns with Altus Group's recent expansion in Ireland with a new facility in Cork to support rapid growth and better serve customers in the Irish region, as well as their addition of new talent to the UK aftercare Engineering Team to support their growing business throughout the UK.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We are delighted to collaborate with an innovative company like PVA to bring their leading-edge dispensing and coating solutions to our customers in the UK and Ireland.

“Culturally PVA are a great fit for us given that they have a history of being flexible for customers and focusing on support of their partners above all else. I am really looking forward to expanding their installation base and a long partnership with PVA and their team. This partnership reinforces our commitment to supplying the best technologies and support to electronics manufacturers across the regions."

This agreement allows Altus Group to further expand its offerings and enables electronic manufacturers to access PVA's exceptional conformal coating and dispensing equipment through Altus Group's distribution network.

To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Adds Award-Winning Sustainable Cleaning Technology from Kolb

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:52:08 GMT

A partner striving for sustainability

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics assembly industry, is pleased to announce the addition of the new award-winning kolb WPCL-EU to its portfolio. This innovative ‘Zerodischarge’ rinse water treatment module, recognised with the Global SMT Technology Award at the Productronica 2023, reinforces Altus’ commitment to delivering cutting-edge, environmentally sustainable solutions for the electronics manufacturing sector.

Free from the need for external power, compressed air, or water connection, the stand-alone design of the WPCL-EU cleaning module simplifies integration into cleaning processes. Importantly, WPCL-EU uses kolb’s innovative CrossLoop® technology, a circuit process with ZeroDischarge quadruple filtration, enabling the recovery and recycling of rinse water. This significantly increases the conservation of water resources, reducing the need for fresh water to near-zero during the entire cleaner service life. This minimises the associated costs of water supply, but also addresses the expense of disposing of contaminated wastewater.

"Environmental sustainability is a key decision-making variable for customers in our region as manufacturers of electronic products lean into producing their products as sustainably as possible,” said Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO.

“This is the latest release by kolb that shows that they are listening not just to their customers but to global trends. The recent Global SMT Technology Award received by Kolb at Productronica is a testament to that.

“WPCL-EU is another great example of kolb’s innovative ethos. This follows the release of biodegradable chemistry containers and of course, utilising a fundamentally low energy cleaning process (aqueous), making kolb a true ‘green’ provider. “

Christian Ortmann, CEO of kolb Cleaning Technology, added: "Receiving the Global SMT Technology Award for this external water treatment module not only make us proud, but confirms that we are on the right path with our efforts to create a resource-saving cleaning process."

The compact and fully enclosed ClosedLoop® technology WPCL EU module easily integrates with kolb's AQUBE® and PSE MH/MV, as well as PSE 300 two-tank systems. This innovative module eliminates the usual inlets and outlets for rinse water connections, streamlining the cleaning process and enhancing overall system efficiency.

Altus Group can now provide electronics manufacturers with kolb’s award-winning sustainable cleaning systems featuring the new WPCL-EU module. The innovative technology aligns with the growing demand for more environmentally friendly production solutions.

www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Strengthens its Inspection Team to Better Support Customers

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:43:55 GMT

Nick Hurrell Joins The Team

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce a significant addition to their team with the appointment of a new Applications Engineer. This strategic move underscores Altus's commitment to providing exceptional customer support in the UK.

Nick Hurrell has joined the Inspection Team and brings a wealth of experience and an understanding of electronics production and the industry landscape. His professional journey is marked by an impressive track record in the production environment, encompassing all aspects of electronics production, including Surface Mount Technology, Through-Hole Technology, and testing procedures. He has previously held roles that entailed machine selection, implementation, and process improvement, showcasing his proficiency in optimising production processes for maximum efficiency.

Nick has already built a strong relationship with Altus, working with the company on past projects. He is also well-versed in the diverse range of brands within the Altus portfolio, such as Koh Young, Kolb, YJ Link, and Heller. This knowledge positions him as an ideal addition to the team due to his comprehensive understanding of customer pain points, industry dynamics, and the unique pressures of those operating in the field.

Jiri Kucera, Altus Operations Director, said: "We have been very strategic and fortunate with our recent recruiting efforts, bringing on talented individuals who deliver immediate impact and share our vision for the future.

"Nick is precisely the high-calibre engineer we seek - someone with the experience, mind-set, and drive to provide complete solutions, not just support equipment. His in-depth knowledge of the full production environment will allow us to focus on the big picture and truly add value for our customers. I'm eager to see the contributions he'll make to our team."

Nick Hurrell added: "With years of experience collaborating with Altus from the customer perspective, I'm pleased to join the team to take on this exciting new challenge.

"It's clear Altus has an ambitious vision and a stellar reputation that keeps growing. The extensive portfolio of best-in-class products and processes is very impressive. I'm eager to leverage my knowledge of these solutions to further enhance the company's standing and continue elevating our support to customers."

As Application Engineer, Nick will work closely with Anthony Oh, Operations Manager - Inspection Products at Altus Group. His appointment significantly bolsters Altus's Inspection Team, which is paramount in ensuring comprehensive support for customers across the southern region of the UK.

Altus Group Celebrates Essemtec Fast and Furious Award for Top Sales

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:43:28 GMT

Altus Group, a leading supplier and service provider of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has been recognised with Essemtec’s prestigious ‘Fast and Furious Award’ for ‘Top Sales in One Quarter’. This accolade celebrates the company’s accomplishment in successfully implementing and installing Essemtec units for new users, facilitating their transition from existing platforms or establishing brand new OEM accounts.

In 2021, Altus began working with Essemtec, an industry leader in adaptive SMT pick-and-place equipment and intelligent production storage and logistic systems. This partnership was established to address the requirements of electronics companies, specifically low-volume, high-mix manufacturers, providing them with the most flexible technology and exceptional pre-and post-sales support.

Altus has now installed 12 units in the field, with a growing pipeline of interested parties drawn to the all-in-one solution provided alongside an industry-leading aftercare team. This prestigious award recognises Altus as the top suppliers of Essemtec units in Europe in a single quarter, reflecting the strong demand for Essemtec technology in the UK and Ireland.

“It’s a great accolade to win for the team and a huge boost to see how our efforts are paying off,” said Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO. “We knew from the outset that Essemtec had a unique and special technology, and our objective was to raise awareness and support as we always strive to do. The performance achieved to date has surpassed our initial expectations. It is truly rewarding to witness a continuous stream of new customers selecting Essemtec and Altus as their preferred suppliers for high-mix, low-volume, and high-volume dispensing-focused applications. We are confident this is just the beginning, and we look forward to many more successful implementations in the months and years.”

Rob Murphy, Area Sales Manager for Essemtec, added: “Essemtec and Altus have a really strong chemistry, and the partnership has only gone from strength to strength. The technical understanding of our offering has grown within the Altus team, and the awareness of our unique offering has filtered through the market. It’s been particularly exciting to see the number of brand new SMT manufacturers choosing our platforms, giving us the opportunity to implement our all-in-one systems and grow with them as they succeed. Altus is a thoroughly deserved winner of this accolade, and I believe it’s the first of many.”

The award was presented to Altus Group at the Productronica trade fair in Germany, reinforcing Altus’ position as a leading distributor of electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland.

Q4 Newsletter Available

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 19:39:05 GMT

��Our news and developments feel like they are coming thick and fast this year and I’m loving the �� we are on! This edition of our newsletter is packed full again of optimistic developments for our customers, our team and our suppliers.

�� This newsletter features Skalarki, a brilliant OEM investing in UK manufacturing, who implemented a new Essemtec Fox to support their SMT production environment, and some words of wisdom from Marcin Kapera about why they did and how that investment has taken them to the next level.

☘️ It also celebrates some great internal milestones, such as the investment in our new ‘Little Island’ Ireland HQ and demo facility, and the welcome additional to Nick Hurrell who joins Altus and bolsters our AS team with his vast experience working in electronic production.

��️ We also have further news on our product portfolio, having been selected by SMT thermal industries to distribute their brilliant range of reflow soldering solutions and thermal technology in the Irish region, adding further firepower to our already well-established supplier brands and processes.

Watch out for some news next week, about a new partnership formed to advance our conformal coating and dispensing offering across our region .... it's big!

Thanks to all of those that have reached out to learn more and got in touch, those who have already partnered with Altus this year and those that are about to before the year is out ��

Altus Group Adds Solderstar's Reflow Shuttle O2 Measurement Module in Its Product Portfolio

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 08:43:12 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland,has announced a significant enhancement to its product offerings with the introduction of Solderstar's cutting-edge technology, the Reflow Shuttle O2 measurement module.

This innovative module represents the first repeatable verification tool that combines O2 ppm, vibration levels in 3-axes, vacuum, temperature profiles, and conveyor speed on a single robust platform. This gives manufacturers real-time insight into their reflow soldering processes, marking a significant advancement in the industry.

The Reflow Shuttle O2 measurement module, to be unveiled by Solderstar at Productronica 2023 in Munich, enables the detection of nitrogen leaks and precise pinpointing of oxygen fluctuations throughout oven zones. Manufacturers can leverage the module's real-time oxygen level data to optimise nitrogen usage, prevent flux build-up, and make informed decisions to enhance operations. Importantly, by precisely monitoring and controlling O2 levels, the module allows manufacturers to ensure consistent product quality with strong, reliable solder joints free of defects and weaknesses caused by oxidation.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "We are pleased to introduce Solderstar's Reflow Shuttle O2 measurement module to our product portfolio. This innovative technology aligns perfectly with our mission to provide cutting-edge solutions to our customers. It offers a real-time window into reflow soldering processes, facilitating informed decision-making and operational optimisation, ultimately ensuring superior product quality.

“We look forward to introducing our customers to this innovative product at the Solderstar stand during Productronica, allowing them to get a close look at the module’s capabilities for optimising reflow soldering processes.”

The Reflow Shuttle’s versatile design allows seamless integration into fully operational reflow ovens, eliminating the need for downtime during verification. Manufacturers can initiate data collection with a simple button press, obtaining a comprehensive pass-through graph of the entire oven. This overview enables early detection of any anomalies, allowing manufacturers to promptly make adjustments when needed.

Altus invites its customers to explore the Reflow Shuttle O2 measurement module and its benefits at Productronica 2023, from November 14th to 17th in Munich, Germany. To arrange an appointment for in-depth insights, live demonstrations, and answers to technical inquiries, please contact Altus.

www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Provides Precision Inspection for Advanced Semiconductor Packaging

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 10:32:22 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland, is enabling manufacturers to adopt advanced semiconductor packaging techniques with Koh Young's Meister D automated optical inspection (AOI) systems.

As electronics devices demand increasingly sophisticated functionality, they rely on advanced packaging methods such as System-in-Package (SiP), Fan-out wafer-level packaging (FOWLP), and 3D stacking to integrate components in less space while increasing density. However, these innovative configurations also create new inspection challenges. Traditional 2D AOI systems struggle to reliably detect microscopic defects on miniaturised parts.

The Meister D series from Koh Young delivers unprecedented production-speed 3D inspection capabilities tailored for these challenges. This advanced AOI system combines high-resolution 3D measurement with AI-powered defect analysis for precision results. With 25-megapixel camera and 3.5m-micron resolution, it can accurately inspect tiny components down to 0201 metrics, highly reflective and shiny die surfaces, and gaps down to 50 μm to identify micro cracks, chipping and foreign material.

Anthony Oh, Technical Applications Manager at Altus Group, said: "In an era where electronics devices demand increasingly sophisticated functionality and miniaturisation is the norm, the Meister D exceptional true 3D inspection capabilities provide our customers with the precision they need for advanced semiconductor packages. By adopting this cutting-edge AOI, manufacturers gain the process control to confidently implement new techniques that not only enhance their products but also help make devices smarter and more compact."

The Meister D eight-projector inspection probe provides images from different angles to build a complete 3D profile, overcoming issues like shadowing and compensating for reflective surfaces. The 3D data also enables height and tilt measurement for components, critical for inspection. All these capabilities deliver repeatable, autonomous defect identification, providing significant advantages over traditional 2D AOI.

In addition to the Meister D, Altus also offers the Meister D+ with extra optics innovations designed for highly reflective components. By providing the full Meister series, Altus Group ensures that manufacturers in the UK and Irland have access to world-class inspection tools tailored for the latest assembly advances.

For more information about the Meister D series and its pioneering capabilities in semiconductor packaging inspection, please visit www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Laser Marking Vs Manual Labelling: What is the right choice for you?

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 11:09:16 GMT

Moving Beyond Manual Methods: Laser Labelling in Electronics Manufacturing

The UK is home to a substantial portion of the world's contract electronics manufacturing (CEM) sector, producing high volumes of critical, high-value electronics like medical devices, automotive and telecom equipment. The complex, high-mix production prevalent in the region has driven a focus on quality control and traceability which is essential for highly automated and digitised manufacturers embracing Industry 4.0 practices. In these production environments, many questions come from manufacturers on how to improve the product identification process, where customers feel that manual product labelling used to identify and monitor parts is proving to be inadequate to meet the stringent demands.

Labour shortages in the UK mean that CEMs are looking to automate many repetitive, manual processes. This has exacerbated traceability challenges further. In response, a growing number of manufacturers are transitioning to automated laser marking systems for product labelling to address these traceability gaps.

Manual Labelling- the Good and the Bad

Manual labelling has previously served as a reasonably simple and inexpensive option for basic product identification. Workers could quickly apply pre-printed stickers by hand or add markings with stencils or ink pens to designate logos, serial numbers and barcodes. This made manual labelling an appealing starting point when production volumes were smaller and products less complex. However, as manufacturing has scaled exponentially and products have become more sophisticated with exacting specifications and traceability requirements, manual methods have proven to be limited in meeting the demands of electronics fabrication. However, it does have its place; for prototyping and early development, manual labelling could be a good option.

The low cost and flexibility of a ‘simple sticker’ allow workers to rapidly apply and modify labels on prototypes as designs evolve. This adaptable label placement enables quick iteration without specialised equipment. However, as production volumes have increased exponentially, products have become more sophisticated, and technical specifications have grown more exacting, manual labelling has proven limited in meeting the complex requirements of cutting-edge electronics manufacturing.

There are several drawbacks when using manual labelling methods:

Human Error and Inconsistency

Manual label application depends on the individual workers, with the most skilled operator making occasional mistakes which are increased across long production runs. Different operators also apply labels differently. Such inconsistencies and inaccuracies in component identification can lead to defective products, recalls, and traceability problems.

Time-Consuming Process

Manually adding individual labels onto components is a slow process, especially with small electronic components. Even for an experienced worker, manually handling and positioning each tiny label is time consuming. The more labels required per product, the greater the time involved. This manual process becomes highly labour intensive and a bottleneck for production flows, significantly decreasing manufacturing throughput and efficiency.

Lack of Adaptability

Pre-printed labels used in manual labelling have minimal flexibility when design changes are required. Companies using manual labels must discard obsolete label stocks and order new pre-printed labels whenever they want to adjust label content or position. This wastes inventory and requires production downtime during changeovers. Pre-printed labels also cannot generate unique serialised numbers, enable customisation, or easily mark variable data like date codes. If labels are printed on the fly, this reduces the impact of limited adaptability.

Questionable Reliability

The adhesives used in manual stick-on labels can begin to fail over time when exposed to repeated humidity, high temperatures, abrasion or chemicals. Labels can peel, fall off, become illegible or disappear completely - resulting in products with missing or incorrect identification. This makes ongoing traceability and warranty tracking difficult.

Restricted Options

Manual labels can only be applied on accessible surfaces with enough area for adhesion. Odd shapes, small sizes, and hidden areas restrict where labels can be placed. The labels are limited in what materials can be used and must meet size requirements for human handling. These constraints limit options for product design and labelling locations.

Additionally, manual labelling cannot provide the permanent marks mandated by certain regulatory requirements like unique device identification (UDI). Overall, the many limitations and disadvantages inherent with manual labelling make it unsustainable for smooth, high-quality electronics production.

Laser Labelling Addresses Limitations of Manual Methods

Automated and precise, modern laser marking systems surpass the limitations of manual labelling by offering permanent marking capabilities. One argument that manufacturers may say is a disadvantage is the initial outlay of the equipment, however, it has numerous advantages that far outweigh the investment cost.

These systems have become integral to the production line, prompting CEMs to opt for laser marking technology.

Permanent Markings for Lifelong Traceability

Lasers create marks by altering the surface structure of materials through ablation, oxidation, melting or other photochemical processes. This means labels become integral, permanent parts of the product itself - not just stuck on. Laser marked identification withstands wear, abrasion, temperature extremes and chemical exposure. Electronics OEMs can trace labelled products across their entire lifecycles.

Precision Marking and Legibility

Lasers can mark intricate details and small font sizes down to micron levels. Complex machine-readable codes like barcodes are imprinted with perfect precision and accuracy. This prevents errors in component identification - especially critical for complex miniature electronics parts. Lasers easily mark unusual shapes and designs, including curved, angled or hidden surfaces unavailable to manual methods.

Non-contact

Laser marking is a non-contact process. It does not require physical contact with the PCB surface, unlike ink printing or mechanical engraving methods. The laser imprints marks by directing focused light energy onto the material to alter its structure without touching it. This non-contact process eliminates any risk of causing damage, distortion, or stress to delicate electronic components during marking. This enables safe, clean, and damage-free identification of even the most sensitive, densely-packed PCB designs. It can also be used on various surfaces, from metals and ceramics to laminates and plastics, making it ideal for modern high-mix electronic components.

Fast and Integratable

Laser marking seamlessly integrates with fully automated production lines and material handling systems. Parts can be precision marked quickly with no manual intervention. Programmable laser systems also enable rapid changeovers between label formats and data variables. This allows for high-throughput production runs without delays.

Adaptability

Laser systems excel at on-demand marking of labels with variable information like dates, times, and serial numbers. Programming is fast and flexible - allowing for quick customer-specific customisation.

Regulatory Conformance

Stringent government traceability regulations like UDI require permanent product labels that remain intact over long periods and harsh conditions. Laser marking satisfies labelling permanence regulations that manual methods can’t.

Product demonstration: here

Laser Labelling - The Clear Choice for Advanced Electronics

After considering the advantages and disadvantages of manual and laser labelling, it becomes evident that laser technology is the best option for today’s electronics manufacturing. The many drawbacks and bottlenecks inherent in manual methods now hinder quality, throughput, and responsiveness. Laser labelling addresses these shortfalls and enables state-of-the-art production.

Laser systems fulfil the rigorous demands of high-precision Industry 4.0 electronics production environments, enabling immediate and flexible product identification, intricate coding, automated workflows, and guaranteed label permanence.

As electronics manufacturing progresses into smart factories with data-driven production strategies, laser labelling integrates seamlessly into these advanced concepts. Laser systems interface directly with central automation controls, production databases, enterprise resource planning systems and machine learning platforms. This integration enables laser-marked labels to become essential components of advanced PCBA manufacturing practices.

Electronics producers looking to maximise efficiency, quality and reliability will gain a competitive advantage from using laser labelling. Laser labelling emerges as an enabling technology for CEMs looking to meet accelerated time-to-market schedules while still satisfying customer requirements, trade regulations, and traceability requirements.

Altus Group to Support Key Suppliers at Productronica 2023

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 13:23:05 GMT

We are looking forward to a busy show in Munich!

Altus Group, a leading UK and Ireland distributor of electronics assembly equipment, will be supporting key suppliers at Productronica 2023 in Munich, Germany from 14-17th November. Altus aims to maximize engagement opportunities with partners and customers, connecting attendees with new product launches and live equipment demonstrations from their suppliers.

Productronica is anticipated to attract a considerable audience, positioning itself as one of the most highly-attended industry events in recent years. Altus is strategically leveraging their entire sales team's presence at the exhibition to accommodate a high volume of supplier and customer meetings and ensure their clients can view the latest equipment innovations.

Altus CEO Joe Booth said: "It's exciting to have Productronica back on the calendar, with attendance levels reminiscent of pre-pandemic times.

“We've spoken with many of our UK and Irish partners, and they are planning to send sizable delegations, eager to catch up with the industry's latest technologies from around the world. What's particularly exciting for us is that several of our suppliers are set to unveil and demonstrate new technologies for the first time at the event. This means we will have brand new processes to bring our local partners into 2024, with new features and enhanced value’’

At Productronica 2023, Altus will host its customers at their suppliers' booths, facilitating hands-on product demonstrations and meetings. If wish to engage with industry-leading suppliers and discover the latest advancements in electronics assembly equipment, contact Altus Group- www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Group Strengthens Customer Support in Ireland with the Appointment of a New After Sales Support Engineer

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:29:07 GMT

Welcome Andras Fekete!

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Andras Fekete as their new After Sales Support Engineer for Ireland. This strategic move comes as the company experiences significant growth in its business and an expanding customer base in the region, necessitating dedicated support for customers during both pre and post-sales stages.

Andras Fekete brings a wealth of experience in Surface Mount Technology, having previously worked with Altus before relocating to Europe to be closer to his family. During his time in Europe, he contributed his expertise as a valued member of Stäubli, a global industrial and mechatronic solution provider. With changing circumstances now allowing him to live further away, Andras has welcomed the opportunity to open a new chapter in Ireland and re-join the Altus team.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "I am delighted to bring Andras back into the Altus fold and to see how his experience and enthusiasm can support lifting our Irish operations to new heights. Andras is a proven, knowledgeable, and dedicated engineer who will help Altus to provide the level of support our partners expect as we increase our install base and services further in the future."

Having previously supported Altus in the UK, Andras is ready to hit the ground running in his new role and provide immediate value to customers. His advanced skills and experience in both operating and servicing the extensive Altus range of equipment make him an ideal fit for the position.

Based in Cork, Ireland, Andras will be strategically located to support existing Altus customers in the southern region, while collaborating with Senior Applications Engineer Michal Ostrykiewicz and Sales Manager Gareth Fenton to further enhance Altus' support offerings and expand the user base in Ireland.

To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Announce New Facility in Ireland to Support Growing Customer Base

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:56:25 GMT

Altus Has a New Home in Ireland

Altus Group has recently opened a new facility in Cork, southwest Ireland, to accommodate rapid growth in the country and support its customers within the region.

The new premises supports the company’s growth strategy and strengthens their presence in the region. The facility will be equipped with spare parts, consumables, and equipment to ensure customers in Ireland receive faster deliveries and enhanced support. It will also house an area where off site training and demonstrations of the most innovative hardware and software will take place to enhance pre-sales opportunities.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO said: “After a great 2022 for our business in Ireland with several significant orders and a continuation of that performance in 2023, we have committed to our long-term plans for the region by moving our operations to a dedicated facility.

“With the portfolio we have, and the infrastructure we are building, our aim is to be the number one partner for electronics manufacturing not just in the UK, but in Ireland too. This latest step is helping to achieve those goals.”

Heading up the facility will be Gareth Fenton (Sales Manager), Michal Ostrykiewicz (Senior Applications Engineer) & new joiner Andras Fekete (Applications Engineer), who as a team have built on existing relationships and nurtured new ones to establish Altus Ireland as a front runner in its field. The new premises will open more possibilities to reach customers and increase business in this territory.

“It has been a joy to watch the journey of our new entity firstly in being established, and now striving as we show commitment to the region, our existing partners and new customers who trust us to fulfil their projects,” said Joe.

“The response to our efforts has been far better than even we were expecting. Our principle has always been to be ‘focused on support excellence’. We believe by making these investments in the region, we are living up to that promise. You only need to look at the industry-leading brands in our portfolio to see why we have been successful in the past. With the team and infrastructure in place in Ireland, the sky is the limit for our future.”

www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Skalarki Invests in Essemtec & Altus Group

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 14:19:48 GMT

New Essemtec User in the UK

Elevates Quality and Efficiency with Essemtec Equipment Investment

“Quality improvements is our main goal while enhancing the speed of our processes. I am sure we will reach both objectives very quickly with the Essemtec equipment.” Marcin Kapera

Background

SKALARKI electronics Ltd, a leading company specialising in flight simulator design and manufacturing, began as a one-person, small business in 2010, converting to a partnership a year later with a vision to create innovative I/O boards for flight simulators. Over the years, fuelled by their passion and dedication, SKALARKI has experienced remarkable growth. They quickly recognised the market need for Airbus A320 home simulators and started developing various products to meet this demand. They are committed to excellence and integrated in-house developed I/O solutions and THT-based PCBs into their offerings. In 2014, SKALARKI transformed into a limited company, marking a significant milestone in its journey.

SKALARKI expanded its operations and invested in high-end CNC machines to further enhance its product quality. This move allowed them to deliver products comparable to the best in the market. As its growth continued, SKALARKI acquired larger industrial units and expanded its workforce, solidifying its position as a key player in the industry. In 2022, SKALARKI moved to its own state-of-the-art 900m² facility, providing a solid foundation for its ongoing growth.

Essemtec Equipment

Recognising the importance of continued SMD manufacturing improvement and quality, SKALARKI consulted with Altus Group to add to their assembly technology. The company invested in equipment from Essemtec, industry leaders in SMT pick-and-place equipment and intelligent production storage and reflow systems.

“Manual assembly has its limitations. As we expand to a commercial market, our products face advanced requirements and must meet higher expectations. Implementing automated assembly processes will allow us to meet quality standards quickly and efficiently,” said Marcin Kapera

The acquisition of Essemtec equipment, including the Fox SMT Pick and Place unit and Convection Reflow Oven, was driven by their commitment to delivering exceptional products and increasing production efficiency of more complex microcontroller-based designs which include BGA chips and SOM modules.

The Essemtec Fox stands out with its remarkable versatility. It can be expanded in any direction and process, providing SKALARKI with the flexibility to adapt and grow their manufacturing capabilities as needed. Despite its powerful capabilities, the system occupies only 1m² of floor space, making it an ideal choice for production environments.

With up to 180 lanes on a single standalone system (120 lanes with inline), the Fox offers an extensive range of possibilities for SKALARKI’ s high-mix production requirements. The machine's multi flexible feeder and multi-lane cassette options further enhance its adaptability, ensuring smooth handling of various components and assemblies.

Configurable heads allow for jetting, dispensing, or placement, to ensure broad versatility in handling different production tasks. With a high-resolution digital vision system and full operator support, SKALARKI can achieve precise and accurate placement of components, resulting in high-quality end products and achieve superior results.

Enhancing SMD Manufacturing

The Essemtec equipment has already begun transforming SKALARKI’ s production of PCBAs and perfectly aligns with SKALARKI’ s requirements. “The Fox is the ideal pick and place machine for our SMD line,” said Marcin. “With 400 different PCBs produced using the same set of components, the system’s compact size, quick job change capabilities, large feeder count and advanced features has only confirmed our choice.

“Quality improvements is our main goal while enhancing the speed of our processes. I am sure we will reach both objectives very quickly with the Essemtec equipment.” Said Marcin

SKALARKI aims to significantly improve product quality and efficiency by automating the assembly process. With Altus' support, SKALARKI is confident in integrating the new technology and maximising its potential seamlessly.

The Future

SKALARKI plans to maximise its investment in Essemtec equipment over the next 18 months. Their primary objective is to maximise the utilisation of the machines, ensuring a seamless transition into full-scale production.

The next phase will focus on optimising production and capitalising on the flexibility and capabilities of their new equipment. Joe Booth, Altus CEO, concluded: "Collaborating with SKALARKI on their investment in Essemtec's high-tech solutions and building a relationship with them has been a pleasure. Their dedication to delivering top-quality flight simulators and their drive to continuously improve their manufacturing processes has been inspiring. We are proud to support SKALARKI every step of the way, providing guidance and advice when they need it.” Tony Sweetman, Sales Manager, Altus Group Ltd.

Altus Achieves Record Installations in the UK and Ireland with Heller's Innovative MK7 Convection Reflow System

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 09:34:07 GMT

Altus Group, a leading supplier and service provider of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has revealed that since partnering with Heller Industries, they have seen unprecedented installations throughout the UK particularly following the launch of the new MK7 convection reflow system thanks to its ground-breaking design and features.

The new MK7 line of reflow ovens have been hailed as the most economical systems ever released. Building upon the remarkable success of the MK5 oven, the MK7 brings significant advancements in various aspects of reflow technology.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "The response to the Heller MK7 reflow ovens in the UK have been extremely positive. The innovative improvements in energy efficiency have been especially important but there are also advances in thermal management, ease of operation and maintenance which have caught the attention of electronics manufacturers and resulted in record numbers of installations.

"Our commitment to delivering industry-leading solutions that maximise productivity, minimise costs, and increase performance are integral to Altus. Heller Industries' innovative solutions perfectly align with these objectives."

One of the key highlights of the high-throughput MK7 is the redesigned thermal heating zone, which effectively reduces thermal mass and brings the fans closer to the product. This update includes an enhanced low height heater module providing the lowest Delta Ts for superior thermal uniformity and improved air flow. MK7’s clever design and Industry 4.0 compatibility ensures its seamless integration into existing production setups for those already using Heller’s systems.

Energy consumption of the MK7 has been reduced by at least 25% compared to the MK5 which was a market leading system when launched, with the Uniform Gas Management system eliminating ‘net flow’ which results in nitrogen consumption reductions of up to 40%. The energy required for start-up has also been significantly reduced, improving the speed of initialisation. Additionally, the reduced thermal mass in the heating zone, coupled with new software-based energy reduction capabilities, further enhance the efficiency of the oven when idle.

Heller’s state-of-the-art reflow oven offers unparalleled advantages and continues to be one of Altus’ most sought-after options in the UK and Ireland. To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Continues to Build on its Strong Relationship with Scienscope with the Introduction of their Latest X-Ray Inspection Solution

Fri, 26 May 2023 08:37:43 GMT

Xspection 3000 Now Available!

Since adding Scienscope’s range of inspection solutions to its portfolio, Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has seen increasing interest in their technology. With the launch of Xspection 3000 this year, the success story is set to continue.

The new Xspection 3000 X-ray machine is a flexible high-resolution system designed for circuit board defect detection and quality insurance. In addition, it offers batch inspection capabilities providing valuable statistics for SMT line process improvements.

Originating from the Scienscope X-scope 3000, the Xspection 3000 was developed following years of experience, the latest AI software, and customer input. The software's foundations remain unchanged and include automatic void calculation, automatic reporting and measurement capabilities. The system has been updated with added functionality at a competitive price and uses innovative technology to inspect many applications, including multilayer PCBs, voids, semiconductors, THT, and Li batteries.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO said: “The Scienscope range has been a perfect fit for the UK and Ireland markets because of its price-to-image quality and performance ratio. Together with the Altus Group support team, it has resulted in a massive increase in the number of installations and new customers over the last 36 months in the CEM space.

“X-rays are perceived as a ‘luxury’ piece of equipment because of their cost, but Scienscope has been able to break that mould with a very capable closed tube system that meets customer needs and makes having an X-ray onsite a reality.

“Xspection 3000 is a great new addition to their portfolio as it standardises the platforms to help with equipment cost. With the range of options available, we can still supply to customers who require the most advanced solution to cope with complex double-sided products, down to the simplest single-sided inspection. I’m looking forward to seeing many more new users utilising Scienscope in the future.”

Available in two main variants, the conventional 100kV version and the top-of-the-line 130kV version, the Xspection 3000 is the ideal solution for manufacturers looking to enhance their quality control processes. There are additional features that can be added including a 365 degree retrofit table rotating table, and up grading from the standard 45 degree oblique angle tilt to a 70 degree angle for the more complex double sided inspection.

To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Q2 Newsletter Available Now

Thu, 18 May 2023 16:15:45 GMT

What a 3 month stretch, February, March & April have been! Its amazing to see the optimism, project quantity and quality we have been working on as the UK & Ireland boost their investment to meet the higher levels of demand. I am pleased to share our latest quarterly newsletter which captures only a small aspect of the news and areas that we and our network have been focusing to level up.

This edition showcases our long-standing partnership with ZF sites in the UK and the importance of aftersales service, it highlights the considerations when choosing between robotic and selective soldering when automating conventional assembly, it celebrates the recent partnership in the UK & Irish territories with Solderstar, as well as the successful technology day in Romania of Danutek. We also celebrate another new joiner to our Sales team in Charles Lower to cap off a brilliant start of the year.

Download your copy here .

In the next edition we will announce even more exciting progress on several fronts for Altus as well as showcasing some of the great projects we will have implemented through Q2 for our growing list of customers.

ZF Group , Solderstar - Smart Profiling Solutions , Danutek Balkans , INERTEC Soldering Solutions , PROMATION USA , Charles Lower , Altus Group Ltd

Altus Appoints a New Sales Manager for the South West

Fri, 05 May 2023 07:03:43 GMT

Charles Lower Joins The Team

Having seen rapid growth and an increasing customer base over recent years Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for electronics assembly, has ambitious development plans, including continued expansion across the UK and Ireland. To facilitate this growth, the company has appointed Charles Lower as Sales Manager for the South West region.

Charles joins Altus after a successful career in the consumables space and most recently working at a senior level in customer-facing roles for a large UK manufacturers. His experience will help Altus pursue further growth and ensure both new and existing customers continue to receive the highest level of service and support.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO, said: ‘’It is essential for us to find the right people for our team who are hungry to succeed and buy into our ethos of being the best at what we do for the customers we serve. In Charles we have another great addition to our brilliant team.

“We want to be the go-to partner for all electronics manufacturers in the UK and Ireland and assist them with their process improvement projects. To do that we must ensure that we offer the very best purchasing experience from pre-sales to ongoing support. Investing in skilled staff is crucial to support that experience and provide market-leading support. I am delighted for Charles and can’t wait to see his successful projects start to come to fruition in Q3 and beyond.”

Charles Lower said: "I’m really pleased to join the Altus team and lead sales and support in the south west. I have known Altus for several years and have been impressed by the growth and development of the company. From the number of new customers choosing to work with Altus each year, it is clear that the business has lots of momentum with a great range of best-in-class suppliers and an aftersales team who ensure that high expectations are always delivered. I am looking forward to adding to that growth trajectory and getting underway with my own projects.’’

Charles’ appointment will enable Altus to increase its reach and support even more customers at a higher level ensuring the company has the bandwidth and knowledge to leverage the opportunities within the south west region and beyond.

VIEWPOINT 2023: Joe Booth, CEO, Altus

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:19:31 GMT

Circuitnet Interview

How was business in 2022 and what do you expect for the industry in 2023?

2022 was the best year that Altus has had on record and the most successful year to date as a group, with our sister company Danutek.

Last year every region installed more units than ever before. This is partly driven by the broader portfolio strength and the fantastic performance of many of our new top-tier suppliers.

In 2022 we focused on high quality pre-sales and post-sales support for customers, as they have a significant influence on customer's journey. We understand that investment in their growth makes a difference. This is why we appointed a number of skilled personnel for both the pre and post-sales teams to ensure customer success. This included appointing a new UK and Ireland Operations Director who has leveraged all of his prior knowledge and experience to offer the highest standards and oversee all after-sales operational elements of the business’s strategy to lead Altus on its impressive growth trajectory.

Another area that has put Altus on top is our ability to act as a sound board and support samples validation, demos and trials to establish which solution would best fit a company's needs and budget. This value add we provide, has not only assisted customers in their investment confidence, but has allowed us to certify our equipment in real-world terms.

By focusing on how much value we could deliver on every aspect of customer interaction, we have built higher customer satisfaction, trusted ongoing support and retention.

Seeing the progression of Ireland for Altus has been one our biggest success stories not just in 2022, but in the company’s history. It is an area that I am most proud, and we have only just begun.

Due to our determination and investment in the region, we have been rewarded with repeat business, and new projects from significant accounts that have never worked with us before and who needed that level of local support when choosing a partner.

I think the outlook for the electronics industry in 2023 is pretty healthy and market conditions will be more manageable. An influence of growth is the near-shoring and re-shoring of production to the UK. This has created regional supply chains and reduced the logistics burden.

Government policy to support manufacturing and Brexit have also had an effect, with many of our partners seeing this as a chance to grasp the opportunity that comes with the changes rather than be victim to them.

Due to the super deduction and tax relief for those investing in capital equipment, the UK Government is helping companies to increase manufacturing GDP and supporting sites to become more profitable with investment incentives.

Although supply chain issues are starting to improve, CEMs still need orders from their end customers further into the future to secure component parts for production. This in turn gives CEMs a clearer picture of future cash flows, meaning that they can finance more equipment now than when their order book was less determined.

Because of this change Altus supplied equipment in 2022 to alleviate traceability issues around supply chain issues. I predict that this will continue in 2023.

We are forecasting more of the same growth for Altus and continued impact from the above points, but are unsure if this will be reflective of the whole market regionally. There are many unknowns and different factors that will affect business, including finding a solution and end to the war in Ukraine to tensions China, the USA and Taiwan. All of which will have a direct impact on controlling inflation and the global economy.

Will you be launching new products or services in 2023?
This year we will consolidate on the equipment in our portfolio. Our portfolio is already incredibly strong, so we plan to become masters in all areas and maximize on the opportunities we are creating.

Our suppliers do release new products regularly and we are looking forward to Productronica, when many companies launch innovative equipment for the first time.

Are you able to hire enough qualified employees? What could the industry do to develop a larger pool of skilled workers?
People are the most important asset to a company. We have invested a considerable amount of time to vet new starters and have them vet us for alignment.

Because we have invested time in growing our team, we have been incredibly fortunate with our recent hires. They are all in close alignment with our company objectives. I am proud of every single hire we have made in the last several years and now all of them are significant assets to our organisation.

We feel that we contribute a lot of value to our staff in their career development by offering in-depth training and opportunities. We believe in developing the next generation of engineers with next generation skills. Being a millennial and understanding the gulf of talent lost during the outsourcing period to Asia and Europe. I see there is a huge opportunity for British and Irish youngsters that come into our industry and have hunger and determination to take up the space left by skilled workers leaving.

It would be great to see more funding for apprenticeships and further practical courses available as an alternative route to university so that we can create more bright minds in the future.

Almost everything we use today contains electronics. Creating the next technologies that will influence the world from the UK and Ireland should be a goal that all we should push to achieve.

Has your company travel returned to pre-pandemic levels or are you still limiting travel to customer sites or industry conferences in 2023?
My biggest learning throughout this period is that time is my most valuable asset and that is the same for many. Flexible hours, work life balance, hobbies, friends and family... all have time creation in common.

Yes, it has returned more or less. Our engineers didn't stop visiting sites, but now it is even more regular and we can work with customers’ in-person which is always a preference. This is particularly true for new clients as it is very important to be at a customer site to understand their production environment.

We have all learned that our pre-covid travel was probably extreme. We have discovered that a Team's call is more time effective, and we now have a good balance between face-to-face interactions, cost and time savings saving and meeting efficiencies.

Joe Booth , CEO
Altus

Altus Assists PCB Specialists to Add Best-in-Class Inspection to its Production Line

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:06:28 GMT

Garner Osborne Invests In 3D AOI

To ensure quality and efficiency are implemented at all times and compete as a best-in-class CEM, Garner Osborne Circuits liaised with capital equipment supplier and service provider Altus to further enhance their inspection processes through 3D AOI technology.

False calls and escapes are unavoidable when using 2D inspection techniques. When manufacturing complex miniaturised PCBs, this assessment method cannot meet the high standards critical to the success and performance of modern electronic devices. Identifying defects early in assembly and having data to support process improvement decisions is vital to ensure quality and optimise yield. Therefore, moving away from 2D inspection methods to 3D AOI technology is crucial.

To take their inspections processes to a new level Altus introduced Garner Osborne to Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+, the foremost true 3D AOI solution powered by AI enhanced high speed 3D measurement capabilities. The system incorporates KSMART technology which revolutionises data collection and analysis, and improves PCB process optimisation.

Steve Honeybun, CEM Operations Director, Garner Osborne, said: ‘’Garner Osborne has always had a philosophy of continuous improvement to consistently perform at the top end of electronic production services. Moving to a 3D light metrology process with Koh Young, who is widely regarded as the best inspection provider in the market, is a great reflection of that.

“We have worked with Altus for several years, and extending our partnership further, given the support they have always given us, made the decision easier. As a result, we now have fully 3D SPI and AOI to support improving our production yields, and we are delighted to get the unit up and running.’’

KSMART analysis collects all inspection and measurement data and helps advanced inspection systems evolve from “Pass/Fail” tools into highly intuitive, dynamic decision-making systems. Adept equipment supplies can then apply the data set to proprietary AI engines for continuous performance improvement. KSMART ensures the highest levels of transparency by showing all conditions of the lines, while providing the required documentation for changes to each job for traceability.

Anthony Oh, Altus Technical Applications Manager: ‘’This has been an excellent project for Altus, and we especially enjoy working with the team at Garner Osborne. Of course, we take each project as a standalone in its own right, and their team tested us, given that by upgrading to Koh Young, they moved away from an already trusted partner. I am pleased that we demonstrated our claims of providing the lowest levels of false calls available and showing the value of fully 3D light measurement data collection to improve yield. This aspect is where CEM customers can unlock value in their production environment and for their customers.’’

To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Extends the Reach of Essemtec to Ireland

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 08:12:13 GMT

Altus Appointed As Local Irish Representative

Following a successful partnership in the UK, Altus Group, a leading supplier and service provider of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has announced a distribution agreement with Essemtec in Ireland.

The distribution expansion with Essemtec, industry leader in adaptive SMT pick-and-place equipment and intelligent production storage and logistic systems, will enable Altus to provide its customers in Ireland with the most innovative solutions in the marketplace.

Gareth Fenton, Altus Sales Manager, Ireland, said: ‘We are delighted to be given the opportunity to expand on our success with Essemtec and now bring the equipment to reach our full territory across Ireland and the UK.”

The deal comes after a successful year in Ireland, with Altus developing new growth potential and building its customer base within the region following investment in a growing team of experts.

“We have been working hard to offer the best service possible for our customers and prospects locally from both a pre-sales and post-sales perspective,” said Gareth.

“It is gratifying to see that all of our hard work is paying off with successful projects and further opportunities. We have ambitions to be the ‘go-to’ partner in Ireland for production support and process improvement projects. With Essemtec we now can sell full turnkey solutions to customers across SMT, as well as conventional assembly. We believe that the future is bright for our collaboration with Essemtec, who have a top-quality machines with unique attributes for companies looking for ultimate flexibility from their production line.’’

The latest equipment released by Essemtec is considered technically exceptional. Its adaptive, highly flexible SMT pick-and-place, sophisticated dosing systems for high-speed and micro-dispensing, and intelligent storage and logistics for the production material will capitalise on re-shoring production lines.

To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Announced as Distributor of Solderstar’s Thermal Profiling Systems in the UK & Ireland

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 10:11:06 GMT

Solderstar, a technology leader in the design and manufacture of thermal profiling systems, has expanded its current partnership with Altus Group to include distribution and sales support of the company’s innovative thermal profiling systems in the UK and Ireland.

The two companies already have a strong working relationship, collaborating successfully to deliver Solderstar’s equipment in Eastern Europe through Altus’ sister company, Danutek.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO, said: “It is clear that Solderstar is a top-quality provider of profiling systems, and after partnering successfully in Eastern Europe, we are pleased to be offered the opportunity to proactively support Solderstar in the UK and Ireland.

“We are a big believer in Solderstar’s equipment capabilities and have used their profilers for some time to support our routine servicing of reflow processes. We know that the products are the best in the business having already used their technology to ensure ovens operate at optimum levels for customer’s applications.

“I am eager to see how many of our UK-based installations adopt the Solderstar technology. Every user of reflow should have external validation of their processes for auditing purposes, so the potential is huge. I look forward to building a successful future together.’’

Altus' full spectrum range of reflow solutions is an ideal fit for Solderstar because of its large install base of existing prospects and users. The team looks forward to introducing Solderstar’s innovative technology, including the newest equipment release, the intelligent SLX zero set-up profiler, which quickly and easily gains accurate parameters to make insightful decisions.

Chris Williams, Solderstar Business Development Manager, said: ‘’As many will already see, Altus has been on an exciting and transformative journey over the last years. Their complete range of reflow processes makes them a good fit for our technology.

“Working with reliable partners is crucial for our business, and the trust built thus far in our collaborations with Danutek and Altus provides a foundation for further strengthening our outstanding network of distributors in the UK and Ireland.

“We are expecting a very bright future for us both and look forward to accelerating the knowledge of our leading profiling hardware and software across the region.’’

To learn more about Solderstar’s advanced SLX system or the company’s extensive portfolio of products, contact Altus www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Continues to Increase its Presence in Ireland at The National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Exhibition

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:22:26 GMT

On the heels of the company’s strong sales growth in Ireland in 2022, Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for electronics assembly, will continue to increase its presence in the region when it exhibits at The National Manufacturing and Supply Chain in Dublin from 23-24th May 2023.

In the last two years, Altus has invested in new staff with the expertise and experience to offer unrivalled customer service and pre-sales validation of new processes for the region. Exhibitions are an important part of the company’s growth plan, with The National Manufacturing and Supply Chain an important date in the diary to expand its reach.

Gareth Fenton, Altus Sales Manager Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be back at RDS Simmonscourt and supporting a local show and our local sector. We had an excellent first year as a new team in 2022, with existing and new customers trusting us with significant projects. So we are really pleased to say that 2023 looks like it will be more of the same.

“During the exhibition, we will be presenting cutting-edge technologies that the market is calling out for. It’s a, excellent chance for visitors to get hands on with the latest equipment to assist with electronics manufacturing.

“Together with Michael Ostrykiewicz, Senior Applications Engineer, I will be available to discuss specific projects and show how Altus can support companies with innovative equipment from the world’s leading suppliers.”

Technology taking centre stage at the Altus stand includes the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ 3D AOI inspection platform. Combining the best hardware and 3D algorithm technologies and teamed with artificial intelligence, it delivers the first-class accuracy for any inspection application.

The team will also demonstrate the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker, which helps ensure manufacturers easily meet high production targets. Another machine earmarked to create interest at the exhibition is the Scienscope AXC-800 III Xray component counting unit, designed with smart camera technology and automatic label reading and printing, to offer uses automated and de-skilled abilities to count components in their facility. With an increases global focus on component supply, this solution is proving to be hugely popular in the Irish market already.

To learn more about Altus' range of equipment, visit stand J02 at The National Manufacturing and Supply Chain at RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, from 23-24th May 2023.

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Bright Sparks: An Interview With Our CEO Joe Booth

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 15:31:50 GMT

1. How Long have you been in the Electronics industry?

I have been in the electronics industry officially for about six years and a CEO of Altus for just over two years. That being said, when your father is a founder of a company, and you grow up alongside his activities, you could say that I have unofficially worked in the industry since I was a little boy overhearing conversations, meeting business partners from the industry and being invested in the success of the family firm.

Originally I was in the life science space with a degree in Human Biology. This draws many parallels to the engineering world, and it is focused on details, state-of-the-art technology and accurate project delivery. I have been blessed to work in industries that are working at the cutting edge of possibility and pushing the boundaries of what is known currently and what will be standard practice tomorrow. Seeing technology before anyone else and being involved in the challenges of commercialising a design into a market-ready product for the masses makes my work life a joy.

2. Tell us a bit about the company you work for.

Altus Group Ltd. is a distributor of electronic production equipment in the UK and Ireland. We specialise in specifying, implementing, and supporting production lines for electronics manufacturers. We are a second-generation family business focused on support excellence because our horizons are long, and we aim to be the trusted partner not just for today but for a generation. Our mission is to be the best at what we do for our customers. We achieve that by focusing on pre-sales and after-sales support, on-boarding top tier suppliers, and enabling value added opportunities for our partners.

3. What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy my role end to end. As a CEO of a small and dynamic organisation, like many leaders, I wear multiple hats depending on the priority at the time. As the old adage goes, ‘variety is the spice of life,’ and that is exactly what my roles gives me. The variety of areas I can add value to and work on is key for me. At Altus, you couldn’t be further away from a pigeonhole.

Of course, strategy is an element that I spend a good deal of my time working on. Working on the business and steering the ship is vital to meet our long-term objectives. However, as a people person, I feel most at home dealing with customers and learning about their requirements in sales and aftercare.

As a service business, our primary role is to add value through all our interactions with our partners. I feel that by being at the coal face of the business and learning about the needs of our partners and customers, we can quickly change practices or deploy and develop services at the start of a wave and be ahead of the market rather than when it is already formed.

4. How did you get into the industry?

I got into the industry after some persuading from my father, the founder of Altus, and after I had made something of myself and developed the skills needed to contribute to the existing team. It was a natural fit and always a likely path for me to take, however, it was important for me that it was earned and deserved. I couldn’t be more grateful for my time with Thomson Reuters in giving me that foundation and baking in the principles I still hold onto today.

In a family business, it is important to evolve and question why things are done in a certain way and if they can be modified and improved. My experience before Altus has allowed me to look at the organisation through a different lens. It has, in part, shaped that evolution and without that time out of industry, I would not have been able to do what I am doing today.

5. Tell us one thing you really like about the electronics industry

I love the fact that it is so critical to everything in the modern world. When you look around the room that you are in, it is difficult to find an item that doesn’t contain some form of electronics. I like that it is dynamic and ever changing and will continue to evolve over a lifetime. There are always bright minds thinking about the next disruptive electronics product that will change the way we live. I like to think that we can be involved with developing the manufacturing processes that supports future innovations.

6. What do you think the industry could do better?

The industry does many things very well, and of course, there are companies and individuals leading the charge for change creating a vacuum for others to follow. I think that the industry could do better in several ways. The first is to encourage diversity of thought and personalities. It’s the elephant in the room that there are a limited number of female industry leaders, and that needs to and will change over time. We could also do a significantly better job of training the next generation to work within the industry. For too long, we have relied on European talent to run our production facilities, and there is a gulf in home-grown young British and Irish engineers coming through.

7. What would your dream electronic innovation be?

This isn’t easy to answer! When I was growing up, all I wanted was a pair of hover boots. Ones with dinosaurs on, neon lights, and would let me walk the dog with minimal effort. I guess we are getting close to that wish.

Today the dream innovation would be those that help the disadvantaged. Whether that is technologies that advance the resolution to the climate crisis, food security, water sanitation, or energy security, the list goes on. One thing for sure is that those technologies are already bubbling away and an idea in someone’s head. I hope that the industry can provide enough assistance and opportunity to make them a reality.

8. Where do you see yourself in the future?

My short to medium term vision is to be a worthy custodian of Altus Group. I want to mould the company into one that serves our mission to be the best at what we do for our customers. Our ideal is to be the go-to partner for all electronics manufacturers because of the value we bring to their projects.

In the long term, it’s more difficult to say. With a broad brush, I would like to be known for what I brought to the industry and my impact on making it as powerful and attractive as possible for the next custodians. Whether that is by leading the way in terms of business practice standards, cultural change or development opportunity. I do know, however, that I aim to leave a positive legacy.

Leading CEM Invests in a High Performance Laser Depaneling System to Future-Proof Production

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 09:16:00 GMT

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own (or paste your own from a different Laser depaneling is one of the most advanced techniques for cutting and separating PCBs from the panel today and is changing how electronic components are manufactured. To ensure production is futureproofed, and products are manufactured to the highest quality, leading CEM, Sellectronics has invested in an innovative system from Altus Group to assist in the process.

The LPKF CuttingMaster 2240 system has the capability to laser depanel to the highest tolerances. It offers significant advantages compared to conventional mechanical separation methods thanks to its flexibility and stress-free methods.

Working closely with leading OEMs, Sellectroinics sees a wide range of PCB designs that require precise solutions. The LPKF CuttingMaster significantly improves depaneling efficiency with increased cutting speeds of up to 25% on all quality levels depending on the specific application.

Jason O’Connell, Sellectronics Technical Director, said: “Integrating the latest innovative technology and equipment into our operations is fundamental in ensuring we consistently manufacture the very best products and do not miss any business opportunities.

“Sellectronics continue to look at future trends and invest in our production line to help support our customers in the coming years. We are seeing more and more populated rigid and flexible PCBs , sensitive parts, and complex miniaturised assemblies in varying materials. By investing in the LPKF CuttingMaster we can effectively produce components of today and also have the capability to produce those of tomorrow, as the equipment gives us the flexibility and scalability to always stay ahead.”

Joe Booth, Altus CEO, added: “Sellectronics is an excellent example of a company looking to the future and investing their money wisely to offer short-term results but long-term risk mitigation and value to their customers. This investment has put them in a pool of a handful of CEMs in the UK and Ireland who have invested in a process that will give them a significant competitive edge, which is a considerable advantage within the electronics industry.”

The LPKF CuttingMaster 2240 is the first laser system with ultra-fast Tensor Technology which sets a new standard in laser processing. Tensor is a highly innovative beam deflection module developed to distribute pulses around the laser spot in a targeted manner. This enables significantly higher laser powers to be used effectively and meets the highest requirements. Importantly, Tensor increases the quality of the PCB as cooling times are no longer necessary due to an ultra-fast beam guidance system.

The system offers a very attractive price-performance ratio, and with the added Tensor the available power is optimally utilised leading to a significant increase in efficiency. This innovative technology enhances with increasing material thickness, particularly with technically clean cuts. LPKF CuttingMaster 2240 sets new standards in terms of performance, technical cleanliness, and efficiency of depaneling.

To find out more about the LPKF CuttingMaster, and other laser depaneling systems, contact Altus Group, www.altusgroup.co.uk

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Altus is Ready to Continue on its Growth Path in Ireland

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 12:07:26 GMT

Vacancy: Applications Engineer- Ireland

Since establishing a dedicated Irish business division less than two years ago, Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for electronics assembly, is continuing its growth path within the region. With strong sales predicated for the year and an increase in staff planned, progress within this region is expected to increase further in 2023.

Although Altus has always covered the UK and Ireland in its 21 year history, it wasn’t until 2021 that the company made specific investment in the Irish territory with a new facility and dedicated staff to cover the region. These business activities were important growth drivers and are classed as one of the company’s most significant achievements.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO explains: “Seeing the progression of Ireland for Altus has been one our biggest success stories and an area that I am most proud of. What makes it even more exciting is that we have only just begun this epic journey.

“We have made huge progress in Ireland, developed new growth potential and continue to build our customer base within the region. Our dedicated Irish team, which includes Sales Manager Gareth Fenton and Senior Applications Engineer Michal Ostrykiewicz have been instrumental in building on existing relationships and nurturing new ones to establish Altus Ireland as a front runner in its field.

“In Michal and Gareth, we have found great people with a close alignment with our mission and long term ambitions. Our success is due to their hard work and determination to be the best at what we do for the customers we serve. Because of their determination and wins, we are ahead of our business plan schedule, and we are looking to bolster our team with another engineering support expert this year.

“For Altus it is important that the service our customers receive does not diminish as we become more successful. By investing in new staff investment will mean that we can continue to be a high-quality provider but continue to grow to our organisations potential in this special region.”

Altus is pursuing its purposeful growth in Ireland with a clear strategic growth plan which ensures the company continues to be the ‘go to’ partner for capital equipment projects. They will achieve this by focusing on developing the sales and support infrastructure in the region to help maximise the tier one brands within the portfolio.

The first event of the year where Altus will meet its Irish customers en-masse is at the Manufacturing and Supply Chain exhibition in Dublin in May. The team will connect key stakeholders across the full spectrum of British manufacturing and present its innovative range of equipment. To find out more visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Circuitnet Viewpoint 2023- Review of Industry

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 08:08:54 GMT

A Question & Answer With Joe Booth

How was business in 2022 and what do you expect for the industry in 2023?

2022 was the best year that Altus has had on record and the most successful year to date as a group, with our sister company Danutek.

Last year every region installed more units than ever before. This is partly driven by the broader portfolio strength and the fantastic performance of many of our new top-tier suppliers.

In 2022 we focused on high quality pre-sales and post-sales support for customers, as they have a significant influence on customer’s journey. We understand that investment in their growth makes a difference. This is why we appointed a number of skilled personnel for both the pre and post-sales teams to ensure customer success. This included appointing a new UK and Ireland Operations Director who has leveraged all of his prior knowledge and experience to offer the highest standards and oversee all after-sales operational elements of the business’s strategy to lead Altus on its impressive growth trajectory.

Another area that has put Altus on top is our ability to act as a sound board and support samples validation, demos and trials to establish which solution would best fit a company’s needs and budget. This value add we provide, has not only assisted customers in their investment confidence, but has allowed us to certify our equipment in real-world terms.

By focusing on how much value we could deliver on every aspect of customer interaction, we have built higher customer satisfaction, trusted ongoing support and retention.

Seeing the progression of Ireland for Altus has been one our biggest success stories not just in 2022, but in the company’s history. It is an area that I am most proud, and we have only just begun.

Due to our determination and investment in the region, we have been rewarded with repeat business, and new projects from significant accounts that have never worked with us before and who needed that level of local support when choosing a partner.

I think the outlook for the electronics industry in 2023 is pretty healthy and market conditions will be more manageable. An influence of growth is the near-shoring and re-shoring of production to the UK. This has created regional supply chains and reduced the logistics burden.

Government policy to support manufacturing and Brexit have also had an effect, with many of our partners seeing this as a chance to grasp the opportunity that comes with the changes rather than be victim to them.

Due to the super deduction and tax relief for those investing in capital equipment, the UK Government is helping companies to increase manufacturing GDP and supporting sites to become more profitable with investment incentives.

Although supply chain issues are starting to improve, CEMs still need orders from their end customers further into the future to secure component parts for production. This in turn gives CEMs a clearer picture of future cash flows, meaning that they can finance more equipment now than when their order book was less determined.

Because of this change Altus supplied equipment in 2022 to alleviate traceability issues around supply chain issues. I predict that this will continue in 2023.

We are forecasting more of the same growth for Altus and continued impact from the above points, but are unsure if this will be reflective of the whole market regionally. There are many unknowns and different factors that will affect business, including finding a solution and end to the war in Ukraine to tensions China, the USA and Taiwan. All of which will have a direct impact on controlling inflation and the global economy.

Will you be launching new products or services in 2023?

This year we will consolidate on the equipment in our portfolio. Our portfolio is already incredibly strong, so we plan to become masters in all areas and maximize on the opportunities we are creating.

Our suppliers do release new products regularly and we are looking forward to Productronica, when many companies launch innovative equipment for the first time.

Are you able to hire enough qualified employees? What could the industry do to develop a larger pool of skilled workers?

People are the most important asset to a company. We have invested a considerable amount of time to vet new starters and have them vet us for alignment.

Because we have invested time in growing our team, we have been incredibly fortunate with our recent hires. They are all in close alignment with our company objectives. I am proud of every single hire we have made in the last several years and now all of them are significant assets to our organisation.

We feel that we contribute a lot of value to our staff in their career development by offering in-depth training and opportunities. We believe in developing the next generation of engineers with next generation skills. Being a millennial and understanding the gulf of talent lost during the outsourcing period to Asia and Europe. I see there is a huge opportunity for British and Irish youngsters that come into our industry and have hunger and determination to take up the space left by skilled workers leaving.

It would be great to see more funding for apprenticeships and further practical courses available as an alternative route to university so that we can create more bright minds in the future.

Almost everything we use today contains electronics. Creating the next technologies that will influence the world from the UK and Ireland should be a goal that all we should push to achieve.

Has your company travel returned to pre-pandemic levels or are you still limiting travel to customer sites or industry conferences in 2023?

My biggest learning throughout this period is that time is my most valuable asset and that is the same for many. Flexible hours, work life balance, hobbies, friends and family… all have time creation in common.

Yes, it has returned more or less. Our engineers didn’t stop visiting sites, but now it is even more regular and we can work with customers’ in-person which is always a preference. This is particularly true for new clients as it is very important to be at a customer site to understand their production environment.

We have all learned that our pre-covid travel was probably extreme. We have discovered that a Team’s call is more time effective, and we now have a good balance between face-to-face interactions, cost and time savings saving and meeting efficiencies.

www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Assists Customers in the Drive to Automate Labour-Intensive Processes

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:16:21 GMT

Lean manufacturing goals are still top of the agenda for companies producing electronic devices. Maximising productivity while minimising waste within a manufacturing operation is the main objective, and an important part of this principle is automation. Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment, is assisting its customers with assembly solutions, including platforms designed to improve and automate high volume, high mix placement processes.

Labour intensive THT (Through Hole Technology) is still used in the assembly of PCBAs. This process is not only expensive, but also requires highly-skilled operators with the added challenge of human-error reducing quality. To automate the process and improve productivity Altus advises using Cencorp odd-form solutions.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO said: “Odd-form process automation is an efficient way to improve profitability significantly by increasing the throughput and assembly quality. They come into their own with the most complex and varied components, with flexible and sometimes bespoke gripper fingers to meet the requirements of picking and placing conventional parts.

“It is the ideal solution when production control is a high priority. Cencorp's platforms include traceability software, increased assembly reliability, accuracy, labour savings, assembly yield improvements and even floor space savings. Cencorp’s odd-form range meets the demands of the toughest quality requirements and works in harmony with lean manufacturing and automation solution principles.”

To find out more about Cencorp odd-form solutions, or methods to improve automation within your facility contact Altus, www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Full Turnkey Solutions Included in New Altus Brochure

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 14:40:25 GMT

New Brochure Available Now!

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for electronics assembly in the UK and Ireland has announced the release of its new 2023 product brochure which includes full turnkey solutions for SMT, THT and component management.

The 32-page, full-colour document highlights Altus’ products and services including the industry’s most highly-advanced technology. With a mix of tier-one suppliers and equipment, the selection of systems and solutions will help to optimise processes, improve production through turnkey solutions, increase the level of quality and cut down overall costs for electronic manufacturers.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO said: “We are really proud of the range of equipment and class-leading suppliers we can utilise to support our customers. What’s more is that we can comfortably support individual system improvements and be a trusted partner to implement full turnkey lines. This includes solutions across SMT, conventional production, post production processes, and full component management.

“Our customers want a partner that understands production from end to end, offers solutions, and highlights the considerations to reduce their risk. That is the value we aim to bring to our discussions with them and in our support for their pre-sales and post sales lifecycle with Altus.”

As well as highlighting the most innovative equipment available to the electronics sector, the brochure underlines Altus’ unrivalled customer support. Joe said: “We appreciate that the selection of a provider is not just about buying the best technology available. What is just as important is working with a partner you can trust and this is why we focus on our support offering. With a team of experts in each area of electronic production, we also have the knowledge to offer sound advice which is important for manufacturers looking for the right solutions.”

New for the 2023 brochure are automatic optical inspection products from Magic Ray Technology. Featured in the brochure is the highly capable 2D THT AOI utilises 2D technology for post wave and post selective soldering applications.

Also featured for the first time is Lazipur high-speed pin insertion machines, including the all new INSERT H2 and INSERT H1 which have been developed with several benefits including being faster, more compact, modular in designed, adaptable, intuitive and user-friendly.

The new brochure also includes our long-standing pre-eminent suppliers including Koh Young, YJ Link, Heller Industries, and Cencorp Automation to name but a few.

To download your copy of the 2023 Altus brochure visit www.altusgroup.co.uk

New Faces at Danutek to Bolster Customer Support

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 09:21:51 GMT

Danutek Hungary Kft. is pleased to announce it has welcomed several new team members to accommodate rapid growth in the country and to support its customers within the region.

Zsigmond Krasznay has joined as Sales Manager. With an impressive career in senior roles and extensive knowledge of the electronics sector, he will transfer his experience into the new role to develop contact opportunities and drive sales.

Also joining the sales team is András Shanel. As the Junior Sales Manager he will support Krassznay to identify key decision makers, whilst developing and qualifying new business opportunities.

Ábel Boldizsár, Danutek Hungary Kft. Sales Director said: “Our strategy is to provide our customers with the most innovative capital equipment and the best customer service. To perfectly serve the increased customer needs and continue on this path to success, we felt it was important to expand our team in all areas of the company. As well has a boost to the sales team, we are investing in after sales with two new members of staff.”

As a new Application Engineer for Danutek, new comer András Szalczinger will play a significant role in selling, implementing and training of systems from the company’s pre-eminent suppliers. Finally, Vivien Fodor has joined as Purchasing Specialist. She will be responsible for researching and identifying prospective suppliers, and evaluate their offering against key business criteria.

Boldizsár concluded: “In our new colleagues we have found fresh, motivated individuals who have already made a great contribution to the Danutek Hungary team. As we continue to meet the demands of an ever-evolving market, our new hires’ expertise are vital to ensure we continue to be a leader in the field.

“Now is the perfect time to build on the company’s strong position and implement the next phase in our strategic plan, which will be the springboard for more growth and success.”

Danutek as a whole has made 4 new hires in 2022, bringing the total number of employees to 13. With staff being the most valuable asset an organisation has, investment in people will continue in 2023.

https://www.danutek.com/

Altus Presents Turnkey Solutions at Leading Manufacturing and Electronics Exhibition

183:735703129 (Joseph Booth) — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:32:26 GMT

Come See us at Stand J130!

As the first exhibition of 2023, Altus Group is looking forward to welcoming visitors to its stand at the Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2023, from 7 – 9th February 2023. The team will be available to discuss their range of innovative equipment and solutions to optimise electronic manufacturing processes and improve production through turnkey solutions.

Showcasing the latest technology, Altus will demonstrate a range of equipment including 3D AOI inspection solutions and robotic soldering platforms. Altus is also pleased to announce they will welcome a representative from Essemtec to the stand who will demonstrate the latest smart sized modular pick-and-place machine, the ‘Fox MFC’. Their high-tech SMT assembly solutions can be easily configured to a wide variety of application needs and is dedicated to high-mix production to meet customers’ flexible requirements.

Joe Booth, CEO at Altus said: “We are supporting many of our equipment manufacturers at the show including Koh Young, YJ Link, and Promation USA. As principle distributors in the UK and Ireland for these companies, the exhibition is the perfect opportunity for Altus to not only meet with our suppliers but also the customers who will be using this equipment.

“We have an impressive range of s across SMT, conventional production, post production processes, and full component management to help customers implement full turnkey lines. The Altus team are looking forward to demonstrating the best-in-class equipment and discussing how we can assist in end-to-end processes.

To view the most innovative technology for electronics production, and speak to our knowledgeable team, visit Altus on stand J130.

www.altusgroup.co.uk

Award Winning A.I. Technology is a Popular Option for Smart Facilities

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:20:34 GMT

KPO Wins Awards

As a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics assembly industry in the UK and Ireland, Altus ensures its portfolio is the most advanced, and includes the best solutions for Smart facilities. One of its most recent additions not only meets these criteria, but is also an award winner.

Koh Young KPO Printer technology has recently earned the Global Technology Award for Best Process Control Software, and it is easy to see why. Koh Young’s AI-based automatic printing process optimiser applies machine learning algorithms to real-time print process data and delivers the optimum printing parameters. As a result, KPO Printer allows customers to monitor print quality and optimise parameters in real-time to guarantee the best print quality without any intervention by an operator or process expert.

Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO, said: “Koh Young continues to lead the way in 3D measurement and inspection technology, and the KPO Printer is no exception. So I am not surprised it has been recognised for an industry award as it solves many process challenges.

“Product miniaturisation makes it more difficult for manufacturers to produce electronics components reliably. As the most critical stage in the SMT process, ensuring that printing is correct is crucial, particularly as over 70% of defects occur during this step. Maintaining suitable printer conditions is challenging and requires user expertise, therefore consistency and quality can be compromised.

“The Koh Young KPO can stop the unpredictability and improve the process with its AI engine. Using complex algorithms, it intuitively diagnoses issues, recommends parameters, and improves print quality. For the production of highly complex electronics and where there is no room for error, the award-winning KPO is a game changer. It makes print process optimisation simple and allows manufacturers to improve productivity.”

Encompassing advanced AI technology, KPO is helping companies to implement smart manufacturing practices by digitising their production facility and helping to connect devices, machinery and production systems.

www.altusgroup.co.uk .

Altus Finds the Answers in Batch X-Ray with Scienscope Systems

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 10:41:49 GMT

Five years ago, Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, embarked on a new partnership with batch Xray inspection solution provider Scienscope. Since then, the systems have gained momentum as electronics’ companies look for ways to increase traceability and improve quality of manufacturing as parts increase in cost, both to improve manufacturing processes and reduce any risk of error.

Scienscope’s presence in Europe has grown exponentially, with the American company working closely with Altus to take advantage of their industry knowledge. Together with Scienscope’s dedicated team in the region who support sales and aftercare, it has resulted in unified support offering to ensure customers’ needs are met.

Joe Booth Altus CEO said: “Scienscope has gone from strength to strength over the last years with the support of Adrian Radu, European Sales Manager. They have focused their attention on the real pain points experienced by our customers across X-ray and component management. They have developed tools that solve those problems better than most of the providers in the market and with a more palatable price point.”

Scienscope comes into their own is when price to performance is critical. This is particularly important to Contract Electronics Manufacturers (CEMs) who require top quality results, alongside efficient and cost-effective processes.

PCBA X-ray solutions are often seen as too expensive to implement, but Scienscope is working to change that by offering affordable solutions with closed tube technology without compromising on performance. The X-Scope 3000 is one of the most popular X-ray inspection systems in the portfolio. It offers many advantages to help inspect highly complex PCBAs including a larger working area, automatic volumetric checking and measuring features.

“Scienscope’s X-ray systems pack a lot of functionality and a lot of performance for their price point and that is why we are winning projects. When it comes to component management, it’s also a no brainier as Scienscope has become a one stop shop to create gold standard component management and traceability. There are new generation systems coming soon from Scienscope that will really take the competitive advantage to a new level, so watch this space!”

Altus Demonstrates Best-in-Class Equipment at the Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2023- Stand J130

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 09:14:24 GMT

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for electronics assembly in the UK and Ireland, will once again exhibit the most innovative machines available in the marketplace at the Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2023, taking place from 7 – 9th February 2023, at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

Highlights will include demonstrations of best-in-class equipment from leading suppliers in the industry. The team of experts from Altus will present emerging technology within the electronics sector and the processes that will help to improve production.

Joe Booth, Altus CEO said: “Southern Manufacturing and Electronics is an important date in our exhibition diary as it brings the electronics community together in one space. This gives Altus the ideal platform in which to introduce some of the world’s most innovative capital equipment.

“Following a year full of new partnerships and additions in 2022, we are looking forward to introducing visitors to the very best products including inspection systems, production equipment, component management solutions and consumables.

“We have also welcomed several new staff including Jiri Kucera, Altus’ new Operations Director. He is looking forward to meeting our current customers, and prospective clients at the show, and, together with our team of experts, will demonstrate the capabilities of the varied products in our portfolio.”

Highlights on the Altus stand will include equipment from Koh Young, including the Zenith Alpha HS+ 3D AOI inspection platform. Combining the best hardware and 3D algorithm technologies, and teamed with artificial intelligence, it delivers the first class accuracy for any inspection application.

Essemtec Fox smart sized modular pick-and-place machine will also be displayed which is dedicated to high-mix production. Another highlight will be Asscon Vapour Phase system. As the demand to produce complex PCBA technology grows, this market-leading flexible system includes adjustable temperature gradients to assure each product has the optimal, reproducible temperature profile.

With traceability and process control of the upmost importance in electronics production, Altus will also demonstrate Promation USA Robotic Soldering platform. Visitors can see first-hand how these systems can support their high-tech, high value production requirements. Building on the foundation of proven robotic soldering performance and know-how, and with the addition of an impressive suite of software functionality, this robotic soldering process fits seamlessly within Industry 4.0 ideals.

To view the most innovative technology for electronics production, and speak to our knowledgeable team, visit Altus on stand J130.