NEWSLETTER - Summer 2003

Wrekin has recently installed a second state of the art Automatic Optical Inspection machine (A.O.I). It is the OrbotechSK-75 which will compliment the current Orbotech machine. All layers are now scanned using advanced reflective based image acquisition and specialized image processing algorithms, back to data.
The SK-75 has a capability to inspect tracks and gaps down to 45 microns ( 1.8mil) and can be used on all commonly utilised materials including polyimide.

The equipment is used for the early detection of faults such as shorts, opens, line/space violations, nicks, copper splashes and pinholes. Early detection of such issues allows Wrekin to meet even the most demanding of timescales.

“Having the flexibility of a second A.O.I has given us several benefits. We can have even faster throughput of prototype PCB’s , or we can run a production batch on one of the machines without impeding the progress of the fast–turn jobs. It also fits with our policy of having duplicate equipment in all key areas, allowing for scheduled maintenance and off-line training”
David Brown Production Director.

Wrekin Circuits has recently developed the capability to offer "silver fill" technology. Driven by the high volume markets this technology removes the need for copper plating through the holes. As a prototype and pre-series supplier to some of the worlds largest companies we can now offer a product that exactly matches what will be bought in volume, but supplied in timescales that is simply not available from the production suppliers. Other applications for this process include filling copper plated vias and Vias in B.G.A pads. The holes can be silver filled, and then copper plated to create a flat pad. This process creates increased conductivity and improves assembly. If you would like more information please call us on:
Tel: 01952 670011

Jane Strangwood is leaving Wrekin Circuits in August to further her career.
Jane has been a long serving member of the team since joining the company in 1993 as a production operative. Since then she has worked and studied hard to enjoy a variety of roles including her current one as senior quality engineer, responsible for the implementation and maintenance of quality systems and procedures. “I have enjoyed working for Wrekin Circuits and will miss the friends that I have made over the years”. We are sure you will all join us in wishing Jane all the very best for the future.

Wrekin have taken orders from over fifty new customers in the last year, who have contributed approx 10% of sales.

“It has never been more important than now to ensure that the service we provide is the best available anywhere. Whilst others are looking to source their boards from over-seas, Wrekin remain focused on offering their customers a quality product, delivered on time. We strive to remain competitive in the market whilst offering a range of technologies very few can equal. Working with customers to overcome their design and technical issues and our willingness to introduce new technologies such as silver fill makes us valuable partner to our customers. Through this approach we have kept the business profitable and been able to support our commitment to ongoing capital investments”
Andy Morris - Sales Manager.

WREKIN CIRCUITS LTD
ADVANCED CIRCUIT ENGINEERING
ADVANCED CHEMICAL ETCHING
ACE FORMING
We have reported in earlier newsletters that Wrekin had diversified into new areas with the forming of Advanced Chemical Etching. The success of this has lead to another business being born. ACE Forming can manufacture metal components from an extensive range of materials. These include, aluminium, copper, brass, nickel silver, stainless steel and many other metal alloys. Most components can be formed, from chemically etched, wire eroded, laser or water jet, cut blanks.
Order quantities range from a one off to batch quantities of 20,000.
Contact ACE Forming
Tel: 01952 416666
Fax: 01952 416667