MacDermid Alpha and Graphic PLC Lead UK’s First Horizontal Electroless Copper Installation

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MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a leading supplier of integrated materials and chemistries to the electronics industry, is collaborating with Graphic PLC, a Somacis company, on the installation of the first horizontal electroless copper metallization process in the UK.

The installation of leading-edge electroless copper metallization technology at Graphic PLC’s Crediton, Devon site was completed in March. Working in cooperation with SCHMID Group as the equipment supplier and MacDermid Alpha as the process chemistry supplier, the project highlights the collaboration between the three companies and their commitment to advancing the electronics industry in the UK and Europe. The installation utilizes MacDermid Alpha’s Via Dep 4550 electroless copper chemistry, designed for difficult-to-plate substrates.

The Via Dep 4550 process offers superior adhesion on inert surfaces and challenging structural designs while maintaining structural integrity. The zero-stress, blister-free deposit for SAP, mSAP, and flex applications ensures that metallization requirements for complex hybrid devices can be met with ease.

MacDermid Alpha and Graphic PLC represent the forefront of PCB technology innovation, partnering to advance the manufacturing of high-density interconnect, flex, rigid-flex, and multilayer PCBs.

“We are proud to be part of this industry-leading opportunity with Graphic PLC and SCHMID Group,” said Hans Vrijhof, Business Manager UK & Benelux at MacDermid Alpha. “This installation highlights our commitment to advancing PCB manufacturing technologies and ensuring the highest levels of support and reliability for our customers. Our Via Dep 4550 electroless copper system provides high adhesion and structural integrity, as well as meeting IPC-TM-650 thermal stress standards for plated through-holes, making it ideal for fabricating complex substrate designs.”

“The installation of the UK’s first horizontal electroless copper metallization system at our Crediton site will enable Graphic to significantly increase production output and enhance technical capability, while maintaining the very high reliability expected from our customers,” said Andy Greasley, Technical Manager at Graphic PLC. “With the installation of this cutting-edge process and equipment, Graphic is securing our position as Europe’s top PCB manufacturer.”

“SCHMID Group is proud to contribute to the UK’s first horizontal electroless copper metallization system, in close collaboration with Graphic PLC and MacDermid Alpha,” said Roland Rettenmeier, CSO of SCHMID Group.

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