Public Funding for Datum Alloys Ltd

Electronic components are added to printed circuit boards using a process called Surface Mount Technology (SMT). Key components are a stencil, squeegee blade and solder paste which are housed in an automated printer for high volume production. Squeegee blade action forces solder paste from the top side of the stencil through the apertures to create a pattern on the circuit board which matches where the components are to be placed. As electronic devices get smaller and more powerful there is a need to install smaller components in a higher density - to do this the stencil apertures become smaller and closer together making it more difficult to deposit and control the small volumes of paste required. To date all innovation has been focused on the materials used and coatings for the board side of the stencil and the apertures themselves. Datum has developed an approach to modifying the characteristics of the squeegee side of the stencil as well as the apertures and independent tests have indicated a significant improvement in transfer of paste. The purpose of the grant is to understand the impact of changing the material characteristics of the stencil on the squeegee side and use this information to optimise the process. A positive outcome will improve the capability of electronics manufacturing and result in Datum selling materials to create the optimum surface finish on the squeegee side of the stencil.

This project aims to develop a process that would replace existing technology and as such would take sales from the existing supply base as well as offering designers the potential to develop improved components such as micro fluidic mixers and medical implants with small feature which would offer enhanced capability and, for this project, the potential of a niche market. As such , a successful conclusion to this project would place Datum in a unique position to expand its sales significantly. The marketing plan has been developed and is shown in Appendix 7 this shows initial links with two end users of parts. These have already been identified (Hewlett-Packard research Labs in Bristol and Medical Devices in Yorkshire) both have expressed strong interest and have pledged their support. It is also intended to engage professional marketing support. Qi3 have been identified as a potential company for this role, initial discussions have taken place and cost for using their services have been included in the project plan.