Flexibility outpaces the need for speed

Wilson Process Systems selected its latest component placement system for its ability to thrive in high mix productionDue for delivery in May, Wilson Process Systems has purchased a FuzionXC2-37 SMT line from Universal Instruments. Joint managing director, TimWilson, commented: “Traditionally, SMT production lines have been built around cycle-time metrics. This approach, however, falls short in today’s higher-mix environments, where overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) rates of less than 30 per cent and extremely low utilisation rates are typical. The XC2 can provide a dramatic improvement, having the highest feeder capacity on the market while maximising productivity and ultimately reducing costs to the customer. “The XC2 also benefits from new, easy-loading Ion feeders, with improved ergonomics, said to be 30 per cent smaller and 25 per cent lighter than previous generations. It also features a superior top-loading design that helps to reduce replenishment and change over times by 50 per cent, making these machines particularly well suited for NPI to medium volume production.” Investing in this equipment will allow Wilson Process to quote on any job in an increasingly uncertain environment with them minimum of set-up time.This versatile platform combines high-speed chip placement with the ability to handle extreme odd-form parts— from 01005 passive components up to 150mm connectors— with 5kg placement force and parts up to 25mm tall, all on the same platform. Big is Beautiful FuzionXC2-37 also accommodates large boards up to 1,300 by 610mm, 272-off 8mm feeder lanes, and a range of input types including strip, tape, tube, odd-form and tray from the additional direct tray feeder. Tim added: “With a placement capacity now totalling 150k at optimum performance, the FuzionXC2-37 will run along side our current two AC30s and AC72. Apart from increasing our placement capacity by another 25k per hour, one of the key benefits will be our ability to place over a large area normally associated with LED display, tiles and signage. The XC2 is claimed to surpass nearly all other lines currently available in Europe for board placement area and gives lighting designers and manufacturers the opportunity to think about single board solutions. “Backed by this investment, which adds to our capacity and capability, we are confident we can continue to exceed our customers’ expectations well into the future, while offering new customers and markets the opportunity to discover the competitive service, for which we are renowned.”