Electronics service provider FRANK Elektronik has significantly upgraded its manufacturing capabilities through the acquisition of a new surface-mount technology (SMT) line from ASYS.
ASYS is a Germany-based technology company specialising in automation solutions for the electronics manufacturing industry.
FRANK Elektronik works with a diverse client base across multiple sectors, including industrial electronics, medical technology, automotive and e-mobility, railway, measurement technology, and lighting industries.
Under the leadership of managing directors Alexei Sub and Robert Both, the company has recently undergone a strategic transformation, shifting from a focus on the assembly of longboards up to 1500 mm in length to embracing advanced SMT production technologies.
FRANK Elektronik has significantly upgraded its manufacturing capabilities through the acquisition of a state-of-the-art surface-mount technology line
Robert Both highlights the strategic importance of the investment: “With this acquisition, we have created an additional pillar in high-value electronics. The new SMT line allows us to achieve extremely precise manufacturing processes with high throughput, while also expanding our capacity to produce complex assemblies.”
The newly installed SMT line integrates cutting-edge equipment, including the latest 3D solder paste inspection (SPI) and automated optical inspection (AOI) systems enhanced with artificial intelligence, ASYS’s VEGO handling series, the INSIGNUM 6000 XL laser marker, and the SERIO 4000 precision printer from EKRA.
The VEGO handling series, noted for its modular design and robust construction, guarantees reliable material flow and operational flexibility, ensuring FRANK Elektronik’s production remains adaptable to future manufacturing requirements.
Meanwhile, the SERIO 4000 printer employs MultiClamp technology for maximum stencil stability and features a closed-loop system that automatically corrects deviations during paste printing, supported by iSET Control technology for enhanced process reliability.
FRANK Elektronik caters to a diverse client base across multiple sectors, including industrial electronics
Notably, the INSIGNUM 6000 XL laser marker can process large-format printed circuit boards (up to 610 x 610 mm) and incorporates an integrated turning station enabling double-sided labelling in a single process step.
A built-in scissor lift table stabilises boards, prevents bending, and maintains optimal focus for precise marking.
Service and support were also decisive factors in FRANK Elektronik’s choice of ASYS. Robert Both acknowledges, “The accessibility and rapid assistance provided by ASYS’s sales representative, Wolfgang Heyder, and the team were crucial. We had confidence in ASYS from the outset.”
Technological innovations within the new line include closed-loop technology that links solder paste printing directly with SPI data, enabling continuous monitoring and automatic adjustment of print quality.
The VEGO handling series, noted for its modular design and robust construction, guarantees reliable material flow and operational flexibility
This is complemented by iSET Control, which further automates production and reduces the need for manual intervention, enhancing overall process efficiency.
Looking ahead, FRANK Elektronik is poised to meet future challenges in demanding sectors such as medical and control technology. “We will continue expanding our production capacities and diversifying into new markets, supported by both our skilled workforce and these technological investments,” Both adds.
Alexei Sub emphasises the strong partnership with ASYS, stating: “Should we require another SMT line, ASYS will again be our preferred partner, assuming similar conditions prevail.”
This investment marks a significant milestone in FRANK Elektronik’s evolution, positioning the company at the forefront of high-precision electronics manufacturing in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven market.
Top image: from left to right: Robert Both (Managing Director FRANK Elektronik), Wolfgang Heyder (Sales Manager ASYS Group), Alexei Sub (Managing Director FRANK Elektronik)
