Altus Sees Growing Interest for Laser Depanelling Solutions

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has seen an increasing interest in laser depaneling systems from LPKF in 2024. Laser depaneling is an advanced method for separating PCBs from their panels using precise laser cutting technology. This innovative process offers significant benefits in efficiency and versatility, making it increasingly relevant across various manufacturing sectors.

Laser depaneling has emerged as a superior alternative to conventional separation methods. It allows for stress-free, non-contact separation, enabling cuts to be made close to mounted components without damaging them. The precision cutting with narrow channels, combined with the flexibility to process various materials—both rigid and flexible—makes it a highly efficient solution for electronics manufacturers. Especially those that are looking for cost saving on their bill of materials, as using a laser can significantly reduce the amount of PCB needed for break out areas providing material and immediate ROI. This digital, software-based and laser beam guided method accommodates complex geometries while eliminating tool wear, significantly reducing maintenance and changeover costs.

Joe Booth, Altus Group CEO, said: “We’ve seen growing interest in LPKF laser depaneling solutions, particularly the CuttingMaster 3000 series with Tensor technology. Manufacturers are increasingly recognising the benefits of this advanced approach to PCB separation. The precision, flexibility, and efficiency offered by these systems allows our customers to stay competitive in demanding industries such as automotive, medical technology, and consumer electronics where accuracy is key.”

The LPKF CuttingMaster 3000 series is recognised as one of the most flexible and precise laser depaneling systems on the market. Equipped with linear drives, these systems ensure exceptional positioning accuracy and high-quality results with a large working range.

These systems can integrate a wide variety of laser sources with different wavelengths and pulse widths in the nano or picosecond range. Many of the models also feature LPKF’s advanced Tensor technology, making them suitable for a diverse range of applications and materials. This ultrafast beam deflection technology offers up to a 70% reduction in cycle times when combined with LPKF CleanCut. It significantly increases performance potential while maintaining maximum transmission and high robustness for excellent reliability, improving cost efficiency.

As the complexity of electronic devices continues to increase, Altus sees laser depaneling as an important technology for manufacturers looking to enhance their production capabilities.