There has been a marked reduction in the demand for the assembly of PTH components over time, with SMD components taking over.
Obviously our designers tend to use them only where strictly necessary on account of mechanical issues or because there is no similar surface-mounted component. Our department is able though to assemble any PTH component, and perform manual reflow or automatic wave soldering.
The workbenches – all strictly ESD – are equipped with Weller multifunction digital soldering stations. The laboratory is completed by a deionized water and detergent washing line, plus a conformal coating (or tropicalization) line.
This process consists of coating electronic circuitry with a film of protective resin to protect the components installed on the board from atmospheric agents, dust or aggressive vapours. The process prevents oxidation and the growth of dendrites that could compromise the operation of the device over time.