Altus Close 2019 With a Record Year!

Altus Group, a leading supplier of capital equipment for the electronics industry, has helped Active PCB Solutions, a UK-based Contract Electronics Manufacturer, enhance its traceability with the installation of the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker. This investment supports the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality products to demanding sectors. Active PCB sought to enhance productivity further by moving away from a manual, resource-intensive labelling process to enhance its traceability system. After evaluating several options, the company selected the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker from Altus Group due to its advanced features and seamless integration into their production process. Jason Hancock, Head of Engineering at Active PCB Solutions, said: “With traceability and process improvements being key to delivering the highest quality to our customers, it was important to move away from a manual high-cost process. The YJ Link laser marker, supported by Altus, has provided an efficient and reliable solution.” The YJ Link YLM Laser Marker stood out for its capability to automate the repetitive labelling process, increasing productivity and allowing staff to focus on more complex tasks. Its internal flip functionality enables double-sided PCB marking without manual intervention, streamlining workflow and reducing handling time. The system’s large working area accommodates a wide range of board sizes, enhancing production flexibility. Equipped with a high-quality Keyence laser head, the YLM delivers precise, high-contrast markings, ensuring accurate traceability throughout the product lifecycle. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “Active PCB’s investment in the YJ Link Laser Marker highlights their commitment to operational efficiency and quality. We’re pleased to provide a solution that enhances productivity and offers exceptional value.” Since its installation, the YJ Link YLM Laser Marker has optimised Active PCB’s production workflow and delivered cost savings by automating the labelling process. The precise and durable laser markings ensure consistent traceability, supporting Active PCB’s high-quality standards. For more information, visit www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has partnered with Garner Osborne Circuits, a UK-based Contract Electronics Manufacturer, to implement a Dual Lane Heller 1707 MK7 reflow oven. This strategic investment will enhance the company’s production capabilities, allowing them to triple their reflow capacity and meet growing customer demands following recent company acquisition and expansion. The well-established relationship between Altus and Garner Osborne influenced the selection of the Heller 1707 MK7, which offers proven reliability with over 250 units installed across the UK. The system's advanced thermal profiling, energy efficiency, and dual-lane configuration with independent conveyor speeds enable simultaneous processing of multiple PCBs, optimising production throughput. Steve Honeybun, Operations Director at Garner Osborne, said: "We are really happy to have a new Heller Dual Lane oven on the way! Our business has been growing for many years, and this new reflow oven will allow us to add much-needed capacity and future-proof our production capabilities for the further growth we anticipate under our new leadership. “After completing our research on the available solutions, it was clear that Heller has a great brand name and reputation for convection reflow, and the MK7 has some significant energy-saving advantages. We know Altus well, and we have built up a lot of trust in our partnership and the support they offer us when it is needed, so choosing to partner with them was easy, as always." Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO, said: "It has been an exciting time for Garner Osborne under new management, and it's been a pleasure to see them grow for as long as we have been working with them. This new oven is an important investment, as being dual lane effectively triples their reflow capacity and removes a potential bottleneck, helping to boost production. With this additional capacity, they can support their growing customer base or bring in new orders. I'm looking forward to seeing the oven's increased utilisation. The Heller team was excellent throughout the sales process, particularly with the energy-saving audit, and it's great to see another new MK7 in the field!" The installation of the Heller 1707 MK7 is part of Garner Osborne's broader strategy to enhance its manufacturing capabilities following its recent acquisition. This investment further strengthens the company's capacity to deliver high-quality electronics manufacturing services while expanding production throughput to meet increasing market demand. www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce its first 2025 User Day. This exclusive event, focused on the latest innovations and best practice in SMT conformal coating process and inspection technologies, will take place on 21st May at Altus HQ in Redditch. Bringing together industry experts, suppliers, and manufacturers, the Altus User Day will provide attendees with in-depth insights into advanced conformal coating techniques, material solutions, and precision inspection processes that enhance product reliability and performance. Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations of innovative equipment, including the PVA Delta 8 robotic system for selective conformal coating and dispensing applications, Neptune C+ from Koh Young, the company’s latest inspection technology for 3D in-line dispensing process inspection, and Kolb’s innovative PCBA cleaning solutions which can all be implemented to optimise coating performance. Actnano will showcase its surface protection technologies for superior environmental resilience, while Humiseal will present cutting-edge materials for UV and acrylic-based conformal coatings. MP Dry Cabinet, known for its high-tech humidity and temperature controlled storage solutions, will also be featured, demonstrating advanced systems designed to optimise the long term curing process associated with conformal coating. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "Conformal coating is a complex process and what makes our User Day truly valuable is the chance for manufacturers to get hands-on with these technologies in one location, and learn about many key parts of a process and how they impact overall performance. Rather than reading spec sheets, attendees can see these systems working in real-time and ask questions directly to the experts who know them best. After years in this industry, I've consistently seen how these interactive demonstrations help companies make more informed decisions about their production processes." The event agenda will include expert-led presentations, covering key challenges and solutions across the peripheral and core aspects of conformal coating, including describing the considered gold standard approx. Attendees will gain valuable insights into best practices and technological advancements, while also having the opportunity to network with industry professionals and discuss tailored solutions for their manufacturing needs. With limited capacity, early registration is recommended. To enquire about available spaces, contact sales@altusgroup.co.uk www.altusgroup.co.uk.

The rise in post-SMT automation has been building since Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, and 2024 saw further acceleration. Socio-economic pressures, including inflation-driven pay rises and competition for available operators, have intensified the challenges of heavily manual processes. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting automation solutions to address inefficiencies in THT assembly and backend electronics production. The ongoing challenges of securing skilled labor and managing rising operational costs have further fueled the shift towards automation. As a result, suppliers in these areas have experienced exceptional growth in the UK and Ireland, reaching record highs. For example, Promotion USA has delivered advanced robotic soldering solutions, PVA continues to lead in dispensing and conformal coating technology, Scienscope provides innovative component management and X-ray systems, and Kolb specializes in cleaning PCBAs, stencils, and tooling. Looking ahead to 2025, we anticipate continued investment in automating peripheral processes that create production bottlenecks. Additionally, the establishment of new production facilities across the UK and Ireland is expected, driven by stable economic conditions and strengthened ties with the U.S.A. These developments position the region for growth in electronics manufacturing. At Altus, we are uniquely positioned to support this evolution by offering complete solutions for outfitting electronic production facilities. With our comprehensive portfolio, we are ready to act as a turn-key provider for manufacturers navigating the next wave of automation.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of production equipment and consumables for the electronics manufacturing sector in the UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce the launch of its new X-ray inspection services. This addition is designed to help manufacturers optimise their production processes and maintain the highest standards of quality through non-destructive testing solutions where owning a unit outright themselves may be difficult to justify. Known for its complete turnkey solutions across SMT and THT assembly, back-end processes, and component management, Altus now offers advanced X-ray inspection services using the Xspection 3000 system from Scienscope. This state-of-the-art 2D X-ray machine features a high-power microfocus sealed X-ray tube, spot sizes as small as 5µm, and a wide range of inspection capabilities for PCBA and final assembly needs. The service supports customers with rapid, high-quality inspections, from initial process validation during NPI to field failure analysis. Mike Todd, Senior Operations and Planning Manager at Altus Group, said: "We are always evaluating ways to add more value for our customers, and the introduction of X-ray inspection services is an exciting step forward. “The significant investment required for in-house X-ray systems can be a barrier for many manufacturers, particularly for those who need it only for specific applications. Our new service provides a flexible solution, allowing customers to leverage our technology when they need it, without the capital expenditure. This is just one example of how we plan to continue expanding our service offerings to address customer challenges and solidify our position as the ideal partner for manufacturers. We plan to go further and develop more services across 2025, all with the aim of creating value in existing customer needs.” Altus’ X-ray services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers. Whether supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) and initial process validation, conducting ongoing production inspections, or providing failure analysis for field issues, the company is positioned to help manufacturers achieve the highest quality control and process optimisation levels. The service is especially beneficial for contract electronics manufacturers (CEMs) who require X-ray inspection as part of customer contracts but do not justify purchasing their own system. It’s also ideal for manufacturers looking to verify the quality of high-value components, such as BGAs, or analysing products that have encountered issues in the field. In addition to its state-of-the-art technology, Altus offers a team of highly skilled industry experts, certified in X-ray systems and IPC standards, ensuring reliable results and comprehensive support for all customers. The new service offering is part of Altus' broader strategy to operate as a one-stop shop, providing customers with flexible, high-quality solutions that can help streamline their operations and improve their products. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation, Altus plans to introduce additional services in 2025 to support manufacturers across the UK and Ireland further. www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of advanced electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, will showcase a selection of cutting-edge solutions at Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2025 from 4-6 February at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. Visitors can learn about innovative technologies tailored to meet the evolving demands of the electronics industry at the stand, and gain valuable insights into industry trends and strategies for modernising operations during a seminar hosted by the company. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, will present a session on Tuesday 4 February, titled ‘Every Challenge is an Opportunity with the Right Vision.’ The presentation will cover key trends of 2024, offering strategies for manufacturers to modernise and automate operations in order to remain competitive in a shifting market. Joe will also share insights on adapting to industry challenges and future-proofing manufacturing processes. ‘’I can’t wait for this years’ Southern Manufacturing event!” said Joe. "As a one-stop shop for electronics production, selecting what to showcase from our full range of solutions is always a challenge. However, we’ve carefully chosen four of our best-performing suppliers and processes from 2024, which address key industry challenges that the market is actively exploring. “At the event, we’ll be demonstrating these solutions in action. We’ll also be unveiling our brand-new product brochure, featuring the latest innovations from our suppliers. But more importantly, we’re eager to hear directly from our customers about their pain points for 2025 and how we can help solve them. Last year, the event generated the most leads and meetings we’ve ever had, and we’re looking forward to achieving the same success this time around." Altus will showcase a selection of advanced equipment including the Koh Young Alpha HS+ 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) System. This cutting-edge system uses AI-powered precision to inspect pcbs with unmatched accuracy, reducing the need for manual inspection and improving process yields. The Alpha HS+ is designed to help manufacturers maintain the highest quality standards while driving production efficiency. Another highlight will be the PVA Delta 8 Conformal Coating and Dispensing System, a versatile solution for coating, potting, and dispensing applications. Known for its reliability and precision, the Delta 8 is ideal for high-mix production environments where consistency and flexibility are key. Altus will also feature the Essemtec Fox ‘All in One’ System, a modular pick-and-place system that offers scalability for manufacturers working with high-mix, low-volume production. The Fox system’s small footprint and expandable design make it a perfect fit for space-constrained production lines. Finally, the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-ray Component Counter will be on display. With an accuracy rate of 99.99%, this system helps manufacturers streamline inventory management by providing fast and precise component counting, reducing downtime and enhancing overall efficiency. For 2025, Altus Group will also introduce a brand-new stand design, offering an updated experience for visitors to learn more about the innovative solutions on display. Visit Altus Group at the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics Show 2025, stand J80, from 4-6 February 2025 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has successfully helped G&B Electronic Designs Ltd., a prominent contract electronics manufacturer, address a key operational challenge by supplying the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-Ray Component Counter. This strategic investment enables the company to further enhance and optimise production efficiency. G&B Electronic Designs, with over 40 years of experience in delivering high-quality electronics assembly services, was facing inefficiencies due to its manual component counting process. The company’s high-mix, low-to-medium volume production environment, combined with frequent production changeovers, made it critical to find a solution that could streamline operations and improve traceability. Recognising these challenges, Altus worked closely with G&B to identify the Scienscope AXC-800 III as the ideal solution. The system offers advanced X-ray technology capable of counting up to four small reels in less than 30 seconds, helping to increase G&B’s component handling and improving accuracy. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We recognised that G&B needed a solution to eliminate the bottlenecks caused by manual component counting and reduce the risk of shortages. By working together, we were able to identify the Scienscope AXC-800 III as the perfect fit for their needs. The system has not only sped up the component counting process but also enhanced traceability, offering them a robust tool to manage their inventory more efficiently." The AXC-800 III’s features, including real-time barcode scanning, automated label printing, and seamless integration with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), provide G&B with enhanced control over their stock and eliminate risks associated with manual processes. Darren Bills, Purchasing and Materials Manager at G&B Electronic Designs, said: "G&B is always evaluating ways to improve its processes, not just in assembly but across the entire business, so that we are always moving forward and developing. We have been focusing on internal efficiencies, including our factory layout, process flow, component storage area, and now our automatic component counter. These changes have been paying dividends in terms of increased productivity and reduced errors.” Since installing the Scienscope AXC-800 III, G&B has seen immediate improvements in its production cycle. The automated system has significantly reduced component counting times, allowing the company to quickly check kits and book stock back in from production, minimising downtime and the risk of line shortages. This is the second major project between Altus and G&B in 2024, highlighting their strong working relationship. By consistently finding innovative solutions, Altus has helped G&B remain competitive in the electronics manufacturing sector, meeting today’s demands while preparing for future growth.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, emphasises the importance of reducing voids in reflow soldering to improve manufacturing efficiency and product reliability. As one of their key suppliers, Heller Industries, a global provider of electronic manufacturing reflow solutions, has developed multi-stage controlled vacuum technology that reduces void rates to below 1%. This technology is especially beneficial for industries like semiconductor and surface-mount technology (SMT) assembly, where maintaining high-quality solder joints is crucial. With the increasing demand for high-performance electronics, reducing voids in solder joints is essential for ensuring long-term reliability. Heller’s vacuum-assisted reflow soldering process has proven to significantly reduce void rates by up to 99% while addressing substrate and wafer warpage, critical challenges for the electronics manufacturing industry. Heller’s vacuum technology creates a controlled vacuum environment during the reflow process, allowing gas bubbles to escape, reducing void formation. This results in improved heat dissipation, better product stability, and enhanced performance, particularly in high- frequency applications. Additionally, the technology helps eliminate solder splatter and prevents solder bridging, further improving manufacturing efficiency. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "We are lucky to have suppliers that are dedicated to developing solutions that make a real difference for our customers and voiding is top of mind for many globally. Heller's multi-stage controlled vacuum technology advancements are a perfect example of a supplier addressing a trend, offering manufacturers a way to improve solder joint quality and eliminate issues like voiding whilst mitigating warpage. By helping customers optimise their reflow soldering processes, we’re enabling them to achieve higher quality products and more efficient operations.” Heller’s vacuum-assisted reflow technology, now widely implemented across customer installations in production, offers manufacturers a cost-effective solution with high efficiency and low unit per hour (UPH) rates, making it ideal for optimising production without compromising quality. Altus in partnership with Heller are a significant force in the electronics manufacturing industry, helping manufacturers address key convection reflow process related challenges. Through its ongoing collaboration with Heller Industries, Altus is supporting over 200 manufacturing sites in the UK using Heller to improve process reliability, product quality, and operational efficiency, further reinforcing its role as a trusted industry partner. www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has announced the return of Gareth Cuthbert as Application & Service Engineer to its team, reinforcing the company's commitment to supporting excellence and customer service. Gareth previously worked with Altus for nearly six years, during which he gained an understanding of the company’s processes, platforms, and customer needs. Since then, he has expanded his skillset as a service engineer for a world-leading filtration provider, gaining valuable insight into delivering exceptional on-site solutions. Mike Todd, Altus Senior Operations and Planning Manager said: "We are really pleased to welcome Gareth back to the Altus team. His familiarity with our systems and customers will significantly reduce the onboarding time and allow him to contribute quickly. His expanded experience working closely with customers in his previous role aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing outstanding support. Bringing Gareth back enhances our technical expertise on inspection products and strengthens our presence in the North, a region where we see sustained growth opportunities.” Altus Group has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, almost tripling its customer base over the last five years by consistently acquiring new clients. With a steadfast focus on aftersales excellence and ongoing customer care, the company is investing in its service capabilities to meet growing demand. Gareth’s reappointment represents another strategic step in ensuring customers receive unparalleled support. Based in Barnsley, Gareth will undergo an intensive training and accreditation programme to ensure he is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Customers in the North can expect to see Gareth actively supporting maintenance and breakdown services starting in January 2025. www.altusgroup.co.uk.