Analysis
Europlacer to Debut ii-Feed Tape Feeding Solution at the IPC APEX EXPO
Europlacer will debut the ii-Feed in booth #901 at the upcoming IPC APEX Expo, scheduled to take place February 19-21, 2013 at the San Diego Convention Center in California. The ii-Feed Cart has a capacity up to 33 separate component channels and accepts any mix of 8, 12, 16 or 24 mm smart ii-Feed Elements.
ii-Feed elements allow for fast setups and changeovers. The same type of element can be used for tapes (paper and plastic), full reels or short tapes. There is no need for different element models depending on component size in the same tape width. Data is automatically recognized by the machines. This benefit simplifies the operator’s work and further reduces feeder inventory costs.
Reels can be prepared offline in magazines for up to 11 references; the ii-Feed Cart can receive three magazines. ii-Feed elements can be stored with reels in passive shelves, allowing the Setup Help and Stock Management options to quickly locate the parts necessary for the next job.
ii-Feed elements can be placed at any trolley location, without stopping production, and because of the Europlacer turret head design, random positioning does not affect throughput. The correct loading plan is guaranteed.