Saki Introduces 3D Automated X-Ray Inspection Machine

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Saki Corporation has launched an inline 3D-CT automated X-ray inspection machine, the 3Xi-M110, for inspection of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). The 3Xi-M110 reduces the dose and exposure to X-rays during inspection and features soldering quality inspection functions for PCB assembly applications. Saki will demonstrate the PCB inspection capabilities of the 3Xi-M110 at productronica 2019 in Munich, Germany, November 12-15, in stand A2.259.

Saki’s X-ray inspection system is intended to ensure the quality of hidden solder joints for bottom-electrode packages, such as BGAs, LGAs, and QFNs, which are found in advanced embedded devices, telecommunications, and automotive products. Saki’s Planar Computed Tomography (PCT) provides volumetric measurements and shape reconstruction to find voids, head-in-pillow (HiP), and other defects that are difficult to identify.

The 3Xi-M110 hardware platform is 1,380mm wide and weighs 3,100kg. Although the cast iron frame is lighter in weight, it maintains the rigidity needed for stable operation and accuracy, while the imaging range has been optimized to handle board sizes up to 360 x 330mm (W x L). For larger 360 x 510mm (W x L) boards, two-step image capture is available.

The 3Xi-M110 delivers speed and accuracy by utilizing a double motor-driven system equipped with a linear scale manufactured by Magnescale Co. to optimize power and precision.

One of the features of the new system is Saki’s X-ray tube, which can reduce X-ray exposure up to 70% by powering on the X-rays only at the moment of image capture. An exposure dose simulator allows the user to monitor the radiation dose. Based on that information, the method and magnification for releasing the X-rays can be set. The X-ray tube design does not require periodic maintenance or spare parts, and the built-in monitoring system reports when the tube needs replacing.

“In the automotive and communications industries, where quality assurance is important, the effectiveness of high-precision, high-quality PCB X-ray inspection has become critical,” said Masahide Iino, director and head of the sales division of Saki Corporation. “Saki will continue to respond to the needs of the market by leveraging the accumulated knowledge and experience it has gained through its history as a leading innovator in the field of 2D/3D automated optical inspection and X-ray inspection.”

About Saki Corporation

Since its inception in 1994, Saki has led the way in the development of automated recognition through robotic vision technology. Sakis 3D automated solder paste, optical, and X-ray inspection systems (SPI, AOI, AXI) have been recognized to provide the stable platform and advanced data capture mechanisms necessary for true M2M communication, improving production, process efficiency, and product quality. Saki Corporation has headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, with offices, sales, and support centers around the world. Visit www.sakiglobal.com.