Hello Matthew

We have been using an automated dip machine from Glenro with good success.

We mask two connectors with a de-ammoniated latex masking and dip the boards
in an acrylic conformal coating from CONAP.

The Glenro machine includes infrared heaters so the boards come out cured.

We prefer dipping to spraying because there is no concern for shadowing and
the coating "seeks" to cover everything.

Cory Steeby
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----- Original Message -----
From: Matthew Lamkin <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, September 02, 1999 5:41 AM
Subject: [TN] Conformal coating machines etc ?


> Hi there everyone,
>
> THE SITUATION:
> We manufacture several different panels of Mixed/SMT PCB's, each with a
> couple of assembly variants.
> The general panel size is about 300mmx220mm
>
> We dip coat our boards for environmental protection.
> Our volumes are not in the millions, but can reach 10k panels per board
> P.A.
> We use QUAD P&P machines & a reflow oven.
>
> We currently have to mask both sides of the mounting holes for a lot as
> they are used as electrical connections too.
> This is done with manually applied peelable resist which has to cure
> for a few hours before use, and/or Kapton tape which
> is rather expensive.
>
> We have some boards with peelable resist screened on the non SMT side by
> our board FAB, providing that it does not interfere
> with the application of solder paste (I.E. panel remains level etc.).
>
> THE QUESTIONS:
>
> However, all the above does take a considerable amount of labor time etc
> to do, so what I would like to know is would
> we benefit from one of those machines that spray the coating on, missing
> pre-defined areas etc ?
>
> Also in what region does a secondhand one cost?
> and what models should we be on the lookout for ?
>
> Can using one of these machines provide the same (or better) protection
> level that dipping the boards get?
>
> What saving could we make in using one?
>
> Also (to our UK Technetters) can anyone recommend a supplier of reflow
> temp resistant tapes or dots etc, perhaps a tape
> that is pre-cut to particular shapes ? I know that I can get Kapton tape
> from Farnell but its rather dear..
>
> Many thanks - Matthew Lamkin
> Printed Circuitboard Draughtsman
> Protec Hse, Churchill way,
> Nelson, Lancashire.
> England UK.
> Email [log in to unmask]
>
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