Selective soldering inline or offline?

An offline system works as a standalone cell with separate loading and unloading. An inline system is integrated into the production material flow. The better choice depends on the assembly, process time and available line infrastructure.

Start with the format

Record the actual outside dimensions of the PCB and any carrier. Also consider component heights and accessibility of the solder joints. Only then can the models’ format specifications be compared meaningfully.

Offline for standalone process steps

The Star-1, Ultra-i1 and Ultra-i2 are offline selective-soldering systems. Such a cell may make sense for changing assemblies or a separate process step. Loading, unloading and supplying the system must be included in the total process time.

Inline for the line’s material flow

The Ultra-i2/2, Ultra-i2/41, Ultra-i2/52 and Ultra-i4 models are inline systems. Conveyor direction, height, interfaces to adjacent machines and available preheating time must be matched to existing production. A suitable machine format alone does not guarantee the required line cycle time.

Solder pots and process profile

One or more solder pots can perform different tasks. Preheating may be particularly important for thick PCBs or large copper areas. A trial with a representative assembly and defined quality target will show whether a larger system offers an advantage.

Frequently asked questions

What information is needed for an initial recommendation?

PCB format, THT hole pattern, component spacing, desired throughput, and line conveyor direction and height.

Are more pumps automatically better?

More pumps enable additional process configurations. Whether they improve a particular application depends on the joints, paths and cycle time.