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Transition Automation Permalex Edge Metal Squeegees:
For Defect-Free, Fine Pitch Printing

Permalex is a multi-step metallurgical bonding process which produces a smooth, durable metal squeegee with a hard, low friction edge designed to prevent stencil wear. The result is unmatched print consistency from large D-Pak stencil openings to the demanding requirements of ultra-fine pitch. Permalex Edge Metal Squeegees greatly extend the capabilities of stencil printers and last through thousands of printing and cleaning cycles. Permalex squeegees offer several important features and benefits over conventional polymer products, including the following:

No Scooping or Pumping of Solder Paste

Unlike polymer squeegees, Permalex squeegees ride smoothly along the stencil surface, maintaining a sharp line contact. There is no scavenging of paste as the precision metal edge crosses stencil apertures. Fine details remain crisp and sharp, and bridging is essentially non-existent. Pumping action due to squeegee deformation across the pad openings does not occur. The result is reduced bleeding and clogging and less need for wiping. Despite their hardness, Permalex Edge Metal Squeegees flex and contour to uneven surfaces, including stepped stencils. The result is excellent line definition, less process variability, and higher print quality.

Wear Resistant for Long Life

The Permalex Edge is chip and wear resistant and designed to endure in the harsh mechanical and chemical environments of the SMT printing process. Downtime is therefore minimized, and the costs of blade dressing and sharpening are eliminated.

Lower Friction for Better Registration

The lubricated metal edge of Permalex Edge Metal Squeegee is polished and smooth and rides easily along the stencil surface without chaffing, pulling, or wear. As a result, pull and shift common to conventional polymer squeegees is virtually eliminated.

Thinner Stencils and Stepped Stencils

Because Permalex Edge Metal Squeegees do not dip or scoop solder paste, thinner stencils can be used for the same solder paste volume. Thinner stencils decrease the possibility of excessive bridging occurring from too much paste and ensure less clogging. Permalex squeegees also work well on stepped stencils.

Permalex Edge Metal Squeegees Vs. Other Metal Squeegees

Transition Automation Permalex Edge Metal Squeegees contain a unique base alloy and our special Permalex coating to provide superior performance over other metal blades. Specific benefits include:

• Shape: The unique base metal is a high grade alloy which maintains its precision shape.
• Life: The alloy is engineered for high fatigue resistance, which eliminates premature fracture common with other blades
• Optimized performance and less stencil wear: All of our designs are engineered with optimal balance between flexibility and contact stiffness. This offers the most reliable wiping action with minimal stencil wear.

Optional Paste Retainers: A Breakthrough for Operators

Transition Automation Print-Perfect past retainers significantly improve the performance of stencil printers. The innovative retainers "hold" the solder paste inside the printing area, the result being less operator intervention and increased production throughput. Because the paste is kept from sliding to the side, where it can sit and dry prematurely, the retainers also help to reduce waste and can thereby lower production costs.