Electronics assembly company optimises efficiency with X-ray component counter supplied by Altus

Altus Group, a distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has helped contract electronics manufacturer G&B Electronic Designs address a key operational challenge by supplying the Scienscope AXC-800 III X-ray component counter. This strategic investment provides a further way for the company to enhance and optimise production efficiency.

G&B Electronic Designs, with over 40 years of experience in delivering electronics assembly services, was facing inefficiencies due to its manual component counting process. The company’s high-mix, low-to-medium volume production environment, combined with frequent production changeovers, made it critical to find a solution that could streamline operations and improve traceability.

Recognising these challenges, Altus worked closely with G&B to identify the Scienscope AXC-800 III as the solution. The system offers advanced X-ray technology capable of counting up to four small reels in less than 30 seconds, helping to increase G&B’s component handling and improving accuracy.

Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group says: “We recognised that G&B needed a solution to eliminate the bottlenecks caused by manual component counting and reduce the risk of shortages. By working together, we were able to identify the Scienscope AXC-800 III as the perfect fit for their needs. The system has not only sped up the component counting process but also enhanced traceability, offering them a robust tool to manage their inventory more efficiently.”

The AXC-800 III’s features, including real-time barcode scanning, automated label printing and seamless integration with MES software, provide G&B with enhanced control over its stock and eliminate risks associated with manual processes.

“We’re always evaluating ways to improve our processes, not just in assembly but across the entire business, so that we’re always moving forward and developing,” says Darren Bills, Purchasing and Materials Manager at G&B Electronic Designs. “We’ve been focusing on internal efficiencies, including our factory layout, process flow, component storage area, and now our automatic component counter. These changes have been paying dividends in terms of increased productivity and reduced errors.”

Since installing the Scienscope AXC-800 III, G&B has seen immediate improvements in its production cycle. The automated system has significantly reduced component counting times, providing the company with a quick way to check kits and book stock back in from production, minimising downtime and the risk of line shortages.