DEK Enjoys APEX Advantage

DEK���s reputation as the printing technology leader was enough to send Engineering Concepts Unlimited (ECU) Incorporated’s Chief Engineer, Adam Suchko, to APEX to have a closer look at the company’s advanced print platforms. Based in Fishers, Indiana, the design manufacturing firm specializing in high-reliability, high-end engine control technologies had been evaluating print platforms for well over two years and came to the show to make a final decision. “We thoroughly analyzed several printing systems at the show, looking at everything from the bearings to the vacuum pumps to the ability to add specific features today and in the future,” notes Suchko. “After visiting several printing equipment manufacturers at the event, we ultimately decided on DEK’s Horizon 03iX platform for a number of reasons.”

Suchko goes on to explain that, while technical capability is tantamount, there were other equally important factors in the final judgment. “DEK’s fundamental machine quality and reliability along with its HawkEye Bridging 100% print verification system were critical in our decision to partner with DEK,” he says. “But, DEK’s unmatched service is what sets the company apart. In our view, you’re not buying a machine, you’re buying the people and the support behind it and DEK is the clear choice – without a doubt. We’re already seeing this and the machine hasn’t even been delivered yet!”

Show delegates who visited DEK experienced the company’s full range of technical innovations, print process expertise and comprehensive approach to ensuring robust printing performance. This included not only the print platform capability, but also the yield-enhancing advantages DEK’s Process Support Products. Just launched at APEX 2013, DEK’s VectorGuard™ High Tension stencil technology was so compelling that the first product sale was realized within an hour of the show’s opening. “We have immense confidence in the benefits of this new product,” enthusiastically comments Rick Goldsmith, Global Process Support Products Manager. “The value of VectorGuard High Tension is undeniable. In fact, a demonstration during the opening hour of the show resulted in an on-the-spot purchase, which was a fantastic endorsement of the product’s visible advantages.”

VectorGuard High Tension is DEK’s latest stencil innovation and the evolution of its award-winning VectorGuard interchangeable stencil system. With tension that is 45% greater than that of previous-generation products, VectorGuard High Tension delivers excellent solder paste deposition and definition, better transfer efficiency for highly miniaturized components, zero tension loss over the life of the stencil and improved process control for greater end-of-line yield. VectorGuard High Tension’s additional tension capability is achieved through evolved mechanical frame technology, so those already using VectorGuard can incorporate current foils with the new frame and easily integrate existing products into the new frame system.

In addition to significant platform and stencil sales, DEK’s APEX presence uncovered multiple new partnership opportunities and helped showcase the team’s depth of process expertise. “We were delighted with the results from APEX,” concludes DEK Electronics Assembly Americas General Manager, Brian Smith. “Our pre-show promotional and outreach efforts certainly got customers and prospects to our exhibit and partner demos. And, our knowledgeable team was able to illustrate how DEK solves process challenges and delivers leading-edge technology for a more efficient operation. We exceeded our objectives.”