Metcal customers go for gold with proven solder Technologies

OK International has long been driving productivity for its customers, as a young engineer recently found out when the Metcal MX-500S Soldering and Rework System helped him to gold medal position at the World Skills Competition. OK International has now extended the proven capabilities of this product even further with the launch of the highly anticipated MX-5000 Soldering, Desoldering and Rework System.

Held in Japan during 2007, the biennial World Skills Competition was a demonstration of excellence in the field of vocational training. Nissan Motor Co. used the opportunity to showcase the talents of Akira Shimizu, a young engineer taught to solder to an exceptionally high standard within the company. Akira did not disappoint, using Metcal's MX-500S System to top the Industrial Electronics Competition and take home the gold medal as the reigning champion in this category.

Commenting on the achievement, OK International VP Global Sales & Marketing, Tom Seratti, explains: �Nissan estimates that over 30,000 solder joints are required in one car alone, meaning that soldering skill and quality are essential to automotive manufacturers. The MX-500S equipped with STTC Power Tips is an ideal tool for this challenge as Akira proved, featuring the power to deliver high throughput at low temperatures for a reliable performance. Where a skilled operator like Akira is obviously a bonus, Metcal systems feature easy usability and state-of-the-art ergonomics to reduce training requirements without compromising performance. What's more, we are committed to continued innovation in this area, as our new MX-5000 Soldering, Desoldering and Rework System proves. Building on the established performance of the MX-500S, the MX-5000 Series combines increased power, two new ergonomic and enhanced hand-pieces, and new hand-piece workstands with unique energy and tip-saving features.�

The new Metcal MX-5000 Series is a high performance package for complex assembly applications. Ideal for the challenges of lead-free processes, multi-layer boards, large ground planes and high component packing density, the systems use OK International's exclusive SmartHeat� Technology coupled with 80 watts of power to enable instantaneous response to load conditions with exceptionally high levels of control.

This unique design ensures that the system will not overshoot while recovering in seconds for soldering and rework processes that take the pioneering performance of the 'gold-standard' MX-500S to new levels of productivity.

About OK International

OK International is a leading global supplier of products for production assembly equipment, and the only provider of SmartHeat� Technology. The product range includes bench top soldering and desoldering tools, array package rework equipment, fluid dispensing systems and accessories, and fume extraction systems.

OK International is committed to understanding the product needs of its customers and supplies professional grade products that are innovative, reliable, price competitive and easy to use. Through a global sales channel, OK International provides expert product support and responsive customer service, with localization to meet regional market needs.