メイコーテクノ List of Products and Services

In this column, we will introduce the "Popular Column Article Rankings." This time, in light of the year-end and as a token of our gratitude, we have compiled a ranking based on the feedback we received from everyone and the page views on our website through our own unique aggregation. What kind of feedback did each article receive? What trends can be observed? Since this is a "thorough explanation," I would like to write with these points in mind. [Contents] ■ Trends in Article Rankings ■ 5th Place ■ 4th Place ■ 3rd Place ■ 2nd Place ■ 1st Place *For detailed content of the columns, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we will introduce "Surface Treatment of PCBs." This article was prompted by a conversation with our new graduate salesperson, K, who mentioned that customers have said there are fewer places that can perform solder leveling. As usual, I realized that I hadn't summarized the surface treatment of PCBs, so I took up my pen to write. I have compiled this from a unique perspective of our column. [Contents] ■ Why is surface treatment performed on PCBs in the first place? ■ Types and characteristics of PCB surface treatments ■ Usage ratios of PCB surface treatments by industry *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

• Special Construction Method

In this column, we will introduce "solder." To get straight to the point, do you all know how to make solder paste? Honestly, I didn't know. I asked in detail during a meeting with a solder manufacturer, but after I got home and did some research, I found that it really is quite similar to making curry! Solder has an inseparable connection with metal masks, and since I had various realizations this time, I decided to write an article about it. [Contents] ■ What is "solder" in the first place? ■ Solder? Han-da? ■ Types of solder based on implementation applications ■ How to make curry and solder paste *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• Special Construction Method

In this column, we will introduce "Surface Mount Technology (SMT)." Wait, isn't surface mount just "printing," "component placement," and "reflow"? You might be thinking that! Actually, in writing this article, I did some research and asked around, and I found some interesting insights. Additionally, during the new graduate sales training at Meiko, K-san proudly mentioned, "I visited the Meiko Vietnam assembly factory!" (laughs), so I would like to write about how surface mount technology (SMT) appeared from the perspective of a liberal arts new graduate. [Contents] ■ What is "Surface Mount Technology (SMT)" in the first place? ■ The future of the surface mount technology market ■ The PCB assembly industry led by Japanese manufacturers ■ The processes involved in surface mount technology (SMT) *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

• Special Construction Method

In this column, we will introduce the "half-etching process" from the metal mask option processing series. In recent times, as substrates become lighter, thinner, and smaller, chip components are getting smaller and smaller, while the components that require solder volume remain the same. Isn't it common to wonder, "Even though it’s a 0603 package, how can we fit a Samtec connector on it? What about the metal thickness?" In such situations, the half-etching process that we will explain this time comes into play. [Contents] - What is "etching" in the first place? - What is "half" etching in the first place? - How half-etching is used - Applications of half-etching *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

• Special Construction Method

In this column, we will introduce "the recycling and reuse of metal masks." Recently, the idea that addressing environmental issues is very important has spread, with concepts such as "SDGs," "ROHS Directive," and "ISO 14001" gaining attention. We hope that this column will help you understand what kind of product metal masks are from the perspective of environmental impact. [Contents] ■ What is the difference between "recycling" and "reuse"? ■ Recycling and reuse of combination metal masks (metal masks with aluminum frames) ■ Recycling and reuse of swift metal masks ■ Recycling and reuse of simple metal masks (metal masks made only of SUS) ■ Which metal mask has the highest recyclability? *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.

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In this column, we will introduce a "Collection of Quality Improvement Case Studies." As a metal mask manufacturer, we receive daily inquiries regarding quality improvement. This time, we would like to pick some of these quality improvement cases and share the steps we have taken to collaborate with our customers on improvements. [Contents] ■ What is a "Gold Plated Substrate"? ■ Mechanism of Solder Adhesion ■ Efforts Toward Improvement ■ Improvement Results and Considerations *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we will introduce "men-shi" (face view). The term that is inseparable from the production of metal masks is "men-shi." This word "men-shi" is likely not found in just any dictionary, and this time we will explain "men-shi" and the difficulties of "men-shi judgment." [Contents] ■ What is men-shi? ■ What are "frontal view" and "transparency"? ■ What is Gerber data? ■ Making men-shi judgments based on the information received is what being a professional is all about! *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we will introduce "jigs for implementation." "Jig" is also referred to as "JIG" in English (it seems the origin is from English!), making it a universal term. Among various jigs, this time we will focus on jigs related to PCB assembly. If you are wondering why we are discussing jigs in a thorough explanation of metal masks, please continue reading. 【Contents】 ■ What is a jig? ■ Types and uses of jigs in the PCB assembly process ■ Production of jigs *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we will introduce "the polishing process of metal masks." Like other mask manufacturers, we have various specifications and methods within a limited number of processes to meet our customers' requests, along with a wealth of diverse know-how. This time, I would like to discuss "surface polishing," which is the next process after laser processing. [Contents] ■ What is surface polishing? ■ Types of surface polishing ■ The hatred of dross *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

• Special Construction Method

In this column, we will introduce "the processing of metal masks." There are mainly three methods for processing metal masks (etching, additive, and laser), but this time we will explain "laser processing," which is the most mainstream among them. For more details, please refer to the related links. [Contents] ■1. The mechanism of laser processing ■2. Opening shapes created by laser processing (linearity and wall characteristics) ■3. Opening shapes created by laser processing (cross-section) ■4. Surprisingly important, material setup *You can view the detailed content of the column from the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we will introduce "Water Repellent Treatment for Metal Masks." The printing quality in substrate mounting greatly varies depending on how the thickness and aperture design of the metal mask are set. Optional treatments for metal masks are often used, especially for compact substrates or substrates with a mix of large and small components, to achieve printing results that are closer to the ideal as determined by the set thickness and aperture design. For more details, please refer to the related links. [Contents] 1. Introduction to Coating Treatment 2. Principles of Coating Treatment 3. Purpose of Coating Treatment *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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Thank you for always reading our column, "Thorough Explanation of Metal Masks." This column started on April 1, 2021, and we have published a total of 19 articles so far. For the 20th edition, we would like to take this opportunity, coinciding with both the milestone of the 20th article and the end of the year, to reflect on 2022. For more details, please refer to the related links. [Contents] 1. Reflection on January to March 2. Reflection on April to June 3. Reflection on July to September 4. Reflection on October to December 5. Initiatives for 2023 *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we will thoroughly explain the delivery times for metal masks. It has become commonplace for e-commerce sites like Amazon, Rakuten, and Yahoo! to deliver products the next day. As for metal masks... surprisingly! They can be shipped in as little as 3 hours. Of course, various conditions must be met, but without any options, they can generally be shipped on the same day. Why is it possible to achieve such short delivery times? The key words are "automation," "database," and "visualization." For more details, please refer to the related links. [Content Overview] 1. Overview of the metal mask manufacturing process 2. Factors affecting delivery times for each stage of the metal mask manufacturing process 3. Initiatives for each stage of the metal mask manufacturing process *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we introduce the situation regarding metal mask components and our company's initiatives. Recently, there has been much discussion about price increases due to soaring raw material costs, and metal mask components are no exception to this trend. However, our company is not currently considering a price increase. Furthermore, if conditions are met, cost reductions are also possible! We will explain in detail "how we can achieve low prices without compromising quality or delivery times" amidst rising component costs. [Contents] ■ Current situation of metal mask components ■ Price structure of metal masks ■ Meiko Techno's initiatives - Metal mask web ordering system 'It's mono.net' - Programmatic editing 'Reduction of inspection labor through systematization' - Initiatives for manufacturing process automation 'Counter for counting cycles' and 'Shelf Picard' - Patented detachable metal mask system ■ Selectable plans * We are currently offering a checklist to determine if conditions are met in PDF format! Please give it a try. * For more details about the column, feel free to download the PDF or contact us.

• Other services and technologies

This column explains additive metal masks. "Additive" refers to one of the metal mask methods, such as "laser" or "etching." Metal masks are made through electroplating and are manufactured using "electroforming," which is suitable for precision processing. They are very high precision, with some having hundreds of thousands of tiny holes, as small as a few micrometers, used in applications like IC packages. [Contents] ■ What is an "additive" metal mask? ■ The evolution of metal mask methods ■ How to create an additive metal mask ■ The manufacturing process of additive metal masks ■ The future of additive metal masks *For detailed information about the column, please refer to the related links. For more details, feel free to contact us.

• Other services and technologies

This column explains the "development story of CoCo processing." "CoCo processing" can be succinctly described as a method that absorbs the height differences of silkscreen printed characters on the circuit board and brings the openings of the metal mask closer to the pads on the board. By absorbing the height differences of the silk during squeegeeing and bringing the openings closer to the board pads, it is possible to suppress smudging caused by the gap between the board and the metal mask, as well as excessive solder due to the height of the silk, thereby improving the stability of the printing process. [Contents] ■ What exactly is "CoCo processing"? ■ Background of CoCo processing development ■ How the specifications for CoCo processing were determined ■ The subsequent development of CoCo processing ■ Origin of the name "CoCo processing" *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

• Other services and technologies

Metal masks can be said to be synonymous with the quality of substrate mounting itself. However, there is far too little information available about metal masks in the world. Therefore, through this column, I thought it might be helpful to share information that could contribute to better product development and, ultimately, to the improvement of quality in Japan's manufacturing industry. First, I will discuss "What exactly is a metal mask?" Please take a moment to read it. [Contents] ■ What is a metal mask? ■ What is the role of a metal mask? ■ How to use a metal mask *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In this column, I would like to introduce the "History of Metal Masks." Metal masks, which are tools used for mounting electronic components onto circuit boards, have undergone various evolutions to keep up with the times. The history of the evolution of metal masks is closely related to the history of surface mount technology (SMT). Please take a moment to read it. [Contents] ■ History of Metal Masks ■ Manufacturing Methods and Evolution of Metal Masks ■ Options for Laser Metal Mask Processing ■ Future of Metal Masks *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

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This column introduces "How to Create a Metal Mask." Metal masks are generally created from Gerber data, and various inspections are conducted until completion to maintain quality. Since we explain from the basics of metal masks, please take a moment to read it. 【Contents (partial)】 ■1. About Metal Masks (Overview) ■2. Acceptance of Provided Data (Verification, Suggestions, Estimates) ■3. Data Editing (Opening Correction, Conversion to Processing Data) ■4. Laser Processing ■5. Surface Polishing (Deburring, Dross Removal) *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In 2021, we published a popular column titled "Investigating Metal Mask Manufacturers." We have updated it for the 2024 edition. When searching for "metal mask manufacturers," you might use search engines with terms like "metal mask manufacturer," but due to search ranking issues, it can be difficult to reach the websites of pure metal mask manufacturers. In this column, we summarize the information as we regularly browse the websites of competitors to stay competitive. Please take a moment to read it. 【Contents】 ■ Investigating Metal Mask Manufacturers ■ Lineup of Metal Mask Manufacturers (in alphabetical order) ■ "Q: Quality" Analysis - Comparison of Laser Processing Metal Mask Option Treatment Lineup ■ "C: Cost" Analysis - Presence or Absence of Cost Reduction Factors ■ "D: Delivery" Analysis - Comparison of Manufacturing Bases *You can view the detailed content of the column in the downloadable PDF. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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This column explains "Metal Mask Opening Design and Thickness." The metal mask data, which serves as the opening data for the metal mask, is generally created to match the dimensions of the substrate pads. However, especially recently, the difficulty of implementation has increased, and it seems that achieving successful results has become quite challenging. Therefore, based on the metal mask data provided by our customers, we will design the metal mask openings to ensure a printing state that is assumed to pose no issues for component mounting quality. [Contents] 1. What is Metal Mask Data 2. About Metal Mask Opening Design 3. Details of Opening Design 4. Selection of Metal Mask Thickness 5. Bonus: History of Changes in Metal Mask Thickness *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

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In metal mask tension, the tension of the mesh frame is transferred to a SUS plate using a method called transfer method, which imparts tension to the metal mask itself. Moreover, a higher tension results in more stable separation behavior between the printed substrate and the metal mask after printing. This column explains the "high tension metal mask," which has a higher tension than usual. We encourage you to read it. [Contents] ■ The impact of metal mask tension on printing ■ What exactly is a "high tension metal mask"? ■ How to create a high tension metal mask ■ Advantages and disadvantages of high tension metal masks ■ Detachable metal mask "Shippu" and tension *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we introduce the mechanism of metal mask tension. The tension of the metal mask itself varies depending on the specifications of the metal mask in its SUS plate state, so as a manufacturer, we manage the tension in the state of the framed mesh. The framed mesh refers to an aluminum frame that is welded into a square shape (i.e., the metal mask frame) with a resin mesh called Tetoron mesh, which has a fine mesh pattern, adhered under tension to the aluminum frame + resin mesh. The factors that determine the tension of the framed mesh are closely related to the "wire diameter" and "mesh count" of the Tetoron mesh. *For more detailed information, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more details.

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Until detachable metal masks came into existence, a metal mask was synonymous with a metal mask with an aluminum frame. In terms of metal masks, the combination refers to the process of merging the SUS (or nickel) part with the aluminum frame (which is actually a frame with a mesh overlay). In this column, we will introduce how the combination is made, how metal mask tension management is conducted, and more. [Contents] ■ What exactly is "the combination of metal masks"? ■ How is the combination made? ■ How is the tension managed? *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

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Some customers may have thought, "Is it possible to produce metal masks in-house?" or "Can't we create metal masks more timely?" In this column, we will introduce the in-house production of laser-processed metal masks as a reference for those considering such options. We have summarized the information focusing on "People," "Things," and "Matters," so please take a moment to read it. [Contents] ■ How are metal masks actually made? ■ "Things" needed for in-house production of metal masks ■ "People" needed for in-house production of metal masks ■ "Matters" needed for in-house production of metal masks *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

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In this column, we introduce the detachable metal mask "Shippu." As a solution to the many voices from customers who are struggling with "not having a storage place for metal masks" and "wanting to reduce the initial implementation costs as much as possible," we considered the development of a detachable frame. In collaboration with the technical department within the Meiko Group, we successfully developed a detachable frame, moving away from the conventional aluminum frame method, achieving both space-saving and low-cost benefits. [Contents] ■ Why the detachable frame "Shippu" was developed ■ Specifications of the detachable metal mask "Shippu" ■ Features of the detachable metal mask - Comparison with aluminum frames: "Advantages" - Comparison with aluminum frames: "Disadvantages" *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.

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The non-removable metal mask is made by attaching a SUS plate with holes created by laser processing to an aluminum frame covered with a resin mesh called "sha" using a special adhesive. The "removable metal mask" refers to a type that uses a SUS plate with holes created by the aforementioned laser processing, which is set into a dedicated frame. Our removable metal mask "Shippu" allows for the storage of only the SUS plate, significantly reducing the storage space required for metal masks. [Contents] ■ What is a removable metal mask? ■ Which metal mask manufacturers have removable metal masks? *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

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In this column, we introduce the progress of new product development. We present the new products while comparing them to the conventional space-saving metal masks. We hope that our lineup of space-saving metal masks can help solve your challenges, even if just a little. Please take a moment to read it. [Contents] ■ Storage space for metal masks ■ Advantages and disadvantages of each space-saving metal mask product ■ Future schedule for new products *For more detailed information about the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more details.

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The efforts to create "high-quality products" are something that those reading this column likely think about regularly. Of course, our company is no different; we produce by considering the specifications or requests from our customers for drilling holes in stainless steel according to their design. In the production of metal masks, there are many stages where human involvement is required, such as arrangement, editing, and combination, making it important to implement measures to prevent human error. Our factory's approach focuses on quality improvement through "systems" and "mechanisms" rather than just "strict inspections." *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

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We conducted a "customer satisfaction survey," and in response to the question, "Do you have any issues with the storage space for metal masks?" over 50% of our customers answered "yes." From these customer voices, we recognize that the space-saving of metal masks is an important issue, and we have been developing various products to address this. We are pleased to announce that a prototype of the "New MSP System," a new product for space-saving metal masks, has been completed and is introduced in this column. [Contents] - What is a metal mask... - Current lineup of space-saving metal masks - Background of new product development - About the new product "New MSP System" - Future development schedule *For detailed information in the column, please refer to the related links. For more details, feel free to contact us.

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Wall surface treatment, as the name suggests, refers to "treating" the "wall surface." Here, the wall surface of the metal mask refers to the "opening wall surface." Applying physical or chemical treatment to the opening wall surface is referred to as treatment, and it is collectively called "wall surface treatment." In this column, we introduce various aspects of "wall surface treatment," including types and methods. Please take a moment to read it. 【Contents】 ■ What is wall surface treatment? ■ Why is wall surface treatment necessary? ■ Basic reasons why wall surface treatment is needed ■ Types of wall surface treatment ■ Methods of grinding (melting) ■ Methods of applying *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

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The "Eco Flash α PIEF-M100" is a weakly alkaline cleaning agent made from 100% plant-based materials extracted from grains, vegetables, fruits, and more. The rinse water after cleaning can be returned to the environment through thorough microbial decomposition. It is compatible with various processes such as ultrasonic and air bubbling. Additionally, it has a long liquid lifespan and can be reused repeatedly after filtration. 【Features】 ■ Water-based ■ 100% food plant materials ■ Powerful cleaning with a smooth finish ■ Minimal scent, considerate of hands and skin ■ Waste liquid can also be recycled *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

• Safety and consumables

We would like to introduce the 'Metal Mask Products' handled by Meiko Tech Co., Ltd. Starting with "Meiko Laser," which boasts stable cutting quality with fiber laser technology, we also offer products like "Super Fine" and "Ultra Fine," which improve solder release by smoothing the walls of the openings. You can choose according to your needs. 【Product Lineup (Partial)】 ■Meiko Laser ■Super Fine ■Ultra Fine ■Convert Contact ■Water Repellent Coat, etc. *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

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Our company uses the detachable metal mask "Shippu," which maintains a stable tension for long periods due to its unique internal mechanism. It allows for easy one-touch attachment and detachment, minimizing setup time loss as much as possible. Additionally, there is no variation caused by the operator. 【Features】 ■ Compact storage in a dedicated storage box ■ Stable tension ■ One-touch attachment and detachment ■ Low cost *For more details, please download the PDF or contact us.

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"It's mono.net" is a web ordering system that enables the streamlining, standardization, and visualization of request history. Do you have any concerns such as "There is no one to respond when the person in charge is sick," "I can't make requests until I return to the office when I'm out," or "I want to provide training, but it's difficult to teach from scratch"? With our system, you can achieve fast ordering that is completed in one minute. Additionally, it can be easily created by anyone, contributing to the efficiency of work. 【Features】 ■ Order completion in one minute ■ Easy creation by anyone, streamlining tasks ■ Simple search and history management - Order history - Management of past data - Download *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

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At Meiko Tech Co., Ltd., we handle "implementation jigs." We offer a variety of products, including "transport carriers" that can be used for applications such as irregular shapes, thin materials, flexible transport, and individual substrate mounting, as well as "backup blocks" that can be ordered simultaneously with metal masks and "flow pallets." You can choose according to your application. 【Product Lineup】 ■ Transport Carriers - Resin Carrier / Magnet Carrier / Tension Carrier ■ Backup Blocks - Aluminum Block / Vacuum Pad Type ■ Flow Pallets - Standard Type / Bridge Countermeasure Type / Multi-Slide Type *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

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