New MPM Stencil Printer from Contax

Contax Ltd - UK

26 March 2008

Production automation system specialist, Contax Ltd, has announced the availability of the new Speedline MPM Momentum stencil printer. Aimed at the mid-market, the Momentum offers superb performance in a cost effective package, employing the latest technology used in MPM’s award-winning* Accela printer.

An ultimately flexible system, the Momentum can handle a wide range of board sizes from 609mm x 508mm to 50.8mm x 50.8mm (24” x 20” to 2” x 2”). It has a cycle time of up to 10 seconds (excluding print) with accuracy and repeatability of +/- 12.5 microns at 6 sigma (Cpk greater than or equal to 2.0).

The Momentum features the latest vision technology. This includes a high speed USB digital camera with patented look up/look down capability, telecentric lens, and advanced lighting techniques for strong performance in both alignment and post-print inspection. Expanded inspection capabilities, such as contrast-based 2D, BridgeVision™ and StencilVision™, all with SpeedVision, are also available.

This new system also offers enhanced reliability and uptime. The Momentum uses new, patent-pending, transport and squeegee systems along with a vacuum stencil wiper and patented roller solvent bar delivery system.

Whilst machine operation is governed by Benchmark™ software, the Momentum uses a standard Microsoft Windows-based system with a graphical user interface common to all new MPM printers. Intuitive software ensures that operator training, setup and changeover times are all minimised. Typically, a new product file can be created in under 10 minutes, and any existing process program can be used as a template for new files.

The Momentum can be easily networked and has wizards for error recovery, machine functions and utilities along with a ‘never lost’ sequence with Start button instructions. The system also employs CANopen motion control and I/O architecture for excellent signal communication and rapid motion with minimal wires and cables.

“The Momentum is an exceptional system,” said Mike Rapson, Managing Director of Contax Ltd. “It offers many of the features of the award-winning Accela, but in a smaller, more cost effective, package. MPM has a strong reputation for providing reliable, performance-led systems, and this printer has all the qualities you would expect from a sophisticated MPM machine. We believe that the Momentum will be particularly successful with UK-based CEMs and OEMs,” he said.