Keith Bryant spoke with Luis Fernando Gazcon of KYZEN about new tools designed to improve cleaning efficiency and traceability.

Its cost-modelling tool analyses inline and batch cleaning processes to identify ways to reduce water and chemical consumption, shorten cleaning cycles and extend bath life.

KYZEN’s PCS closed-loop system measures concentration and automatically adds water or chemistry as needed. Standalone sensors provide live monitoring, reducing the need for manual readings.

The new Analyst RI2 uses refractive index to measure concentration, complementing KYZEN’s established sonic velocity technology. Software supports traceability as manufacturers demand better visibility into their cleaning processes.

KYZEN is also hiring across Mexico and expanding its Nashville laboratories.

Please subscribe for more news on electronics manufacturing, SMT technology and industry developments.

At SMTA Guadalajara, Global SMT & Packaging spoke with Heriberto from Koh Young about the new Zenith DS dual-side AOI system. Two inspection heads check the top and bottom of a board simultaneously, combining SMT and through-hole inspection in a single pass to reduce inspection time and costs. The system is currently being showcased in beta, with software scheduled for Q1 2027.

Koh Young is also expanding its presence in Mexico with a new office offering twice the demo space and training facilities for up to ten people per session.

While automotive demand remains flat, AI applications are driving demand for larger, more customised boards—and new inspection requirements.

Keith Bryant speaks with Juan Arango of PARMI about laser-based AOI and the growing role of AI in inspection. Arango explains how laser scanning avoids the shadows associated with white-light systems, helping improve inspection quality.

According to PARMI, AI auto-programming cuts program creation from six to eight hours to under 10 minutes, followed by 10–15 minutes of debugging. For high-mix, low-volume manufacturers, that means faster changeovers and more consistent programs across different programmers.

The next step is AI verification, which will automatically classify inspection results and leave uncertain cases for an operator. Those decisions will feed back into recipe improvements, supporting PARMI’s goal of zero escapes and zero false calls.