The electronics manufacturing industry has undergone many transformations over the last several years. But what has remained a constant is the importance of facility maintenance. Facility conditions such as air quality, temperature, humidity levels and so forth play a critical role in production processes and the success of end products.
The following article provides a brief overview of electronic manufacturing facility-maintenance developments and trends.
1. Air Quality Management
Electronic components must be manufactured in pristine conditions. Dust is one of the main concerns for facility operators because it can contribute to electrostatic charges. This particular issue is worsened in low humidity because airborne dust particles are drawn to static electricity. One of the most effective solutions is implementing a humidity control system that can manage the facility’s moisture content.
2. Evaporative Cooling
Electronic facilities generate a substantial amount of heat, which in turn, requires high cooling. Not only do evaporative cooling systems provide humidity control, but they also help facilities counterbalance cooling expenses.
Evaporative cooling works by injecting liquid water directly into the air. This means there is no need to add thermal energy to the water. The water vaporizes by taking in the heat from the air.
3. Long-term Sustainability
Sustainability is a growing trend in electronics manufacturing. Maintaining a sustainable operation, however, is time-consuming and costly. Even replacing air filters comes with the risk of releasing contaminants into the facility. That being said, being proactive can make a vast difference. It has been reported that “regular maintenance of HVAC systems can reduce energy costs by 5 to 40 percent.”
Water conservation in electronics manufacturing is also gaining more awareness. HVAC systems, heating boilers, cooling towers, and central steam systems all require water. The latest equipment requires less water, so modernizing one’s facility is an environmentally friendly move.
4. Humidification/Dehumidification
While high humidity should be avoided, low humidity can also be detrimental in an electronics manufacturing facility. When the humidity levels are too low, static electricity increases, which can significantly damage products. This is why it’s essential to track the moisture levels year-round, as they fluctuate with the seasons.
5. Direct Room Humidification Systems
Direct room humidification systems differ from HVAC equipment by using a high-pressure pump system that emits ultrafine mist directly into the needed areas. This is especially effective during an electronic product’s final assembly. Because water is dispersed only when it is required, direct room humidification systems conserve a large amount of energy and water.
Direct room humidification systems are also easy to operate. Air handlers and ductwork are not required, and the system is capable of operating autonomously, which saves electronic manufacturer employees’ time.
A clean, uncontaminated, and sustainable facility is necessary to achieve the highest quality of electronics manufacturing.
At Pivot International, we deliver electronic manufacturing services through company-owned facilities maintained with the latest advances in climate control. We bring nearly 50 years of experience in design, development, manufacturing, and supply chain management, as well as the latest in SMT. Pivot has over 175,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity, in five locations, with class 7 and 8 cleanrooms. Our electronic engineering and manufacturing technicians follow IPC standards, ensuring the production of high quality, reliable components. We also provide standard RoHS-compliant assembly processes with each assembly. To learn more about our world-class electronics manufacturing, contact us today.
