It’s been another productive and fast-paced week here at SK Electronics, with our panel wiring and electromechanical assembly teams working hard to keep customer projects progressing smoothly. Across the factory floor, the focus has remained on precision, consistency, and maintaining the high standards our customers rely on for every project we undertake.

From detailed control panel builds to complex electromechanical assembly work, the team has been handling a wide range of manufacturing tasks with efficiency and attention to detail. As demand continues across multiple sectors, weeks like this highlight the importance of strong teamwork, organised production processes, and the experience of skilled technicians who understand the value of quality workmanship at every stage.

Precision Panel Wiring for Reliable Performance

Panel wiring remains one of the core services we provide at SK Electronics, and it continues to play a vital role in many industrial and commercial systems. Whether supporting automation equipment, control systems, machinery, or specialist electrical applications, every panel we build must meet strict performance and reliability standards.

This week, our engineers have been working on a variety of panel wiring projects requiring careful cable management, accurate component placement, and detailed testing procedures. Precision is essential in this type of work, as even the smallest wiring inconsistency can affect the overall performance and reliability of the finished system.

Our approach focuses on:

  • Clean and organised internal layouts
  • Accurate wiring to technical specifications
  • Careful routing and labelling of cables
  • Consistent quality checks throughout production
  • Thorough testing before final completion

By following detailed assembly procedures and maintaining high inspection standards, our team ensures every panel leaving our facility is built for long-term reliability and performance.

The Importance of Electromechanical Assembly

Alongside panel wiring, electromechanical assembly work has also been in full swing throughout the week. Electromechanical systems combine electrical and mechanical components into fully functioning assemblies, often forming critical parts of larger machines or operational systems.

This type of assembly work requires both technical understanding and practical precision. Components must fit together perfectly, wiring must integrate cleanly with moving parts, and every stage of assembly must be completed carefully to ensure the final product performs exactly as intended.

At SK Electronics, our electromechanical assembly services support customers across a wide range of industries. Projects can vary from relatively simple component assemblies to highly detailed builds involving multiple stages of production and testing.

The team has been working through:

  • Mechanical component assembly
  • Cable harness integration
  • Connector installation
  • Control system integration
  • Functional testing and inspection

Maintaining consistency throughout these processes is essential, particularly for customers requiring repeat production runs or ongoing manufacturing support.

Attention to Detail Across the Factory Floor

One of the biggest strengths of the team at SK Electronics is the attention to detail applied throughout every area of production. In electronics manufacturing and assembly, precision is not optional — it is essential.

Every cable termination, every component placement, and every assembly stage contributes to the quality of the final product. This week has been another example of how important focus and teamwork are when managing multiple active projects simultaneously.

From production planning through to final inspection, each department plays a role in ensuring work progresses efficiently while maintaining the standards our customers expect. Strong communication between teams allows projects to move through production smoothly while reducing delays and maintaining accuracy.

This collaborative approach is particularly important during busy production periods, where multiple jobs may be progressing at the same time. Careful scheduling and experienced project coordination help ensure deadlines are met without compromising quality.

Supporting Customers with Flexible Manufacturing Solutions

Many customers choose SK Electronics because they require more than just component assembly. They need a manufacturing partner capable of supporting projects from initial build stages through to final production and testing.

Our ability to handle both panel wiring and electromechanical assembly in-house allows us to provide streamlined production solutions tailored to customer requirements. This integrated approach improves efficiency, reduces lead times, and helps maintain quality control throughout the manufacturing process.

By keeping production under one roof, we can:

  • Improve communication between departments
  • Maintain tighter quality control
  • Reduce production delays
  • Offer greater flexibility for design adjustments
  • Deliver consistent manufacturing standards

As projects continue to become more technically demanding across many industries, having experienced assembly and wiring teams in place remains essential for delivering reliable results.

Maintaining High Standards in Every Project

At SK Electronics, quality remains at the centre of everything we do. Regardless of project size or complexity, every build receives the same level of care and attention throughout production.

This week’s activity across the factory floor reflects the pride the team takes in their work. From carefully assembled panels to precision electromechanical builds, every project represents the commitment and professionalism that drives our manufacturing processes.

Maintaining high standards involves:

  • Skilled and experienced technicians
  • Structured assembly procedures
  • Ongoing quality inspections
  • Accurate documentation and traceability
  • Thorough testing before dispatch

These processes help ensure every product is delivered to specification and ready for reliable long-term operation in the field.

A Busy Week with Strong Teamwork

Busy production schedules are nothing new at SK Electronics, but successful weeks depend on strong teamwork and communication throughout the business. From engineering and assembly teams to production planning and quality control, every department contributes to keeping projects on track.

This week has been another excellent example of the dedication and professionalism shown across the factory floor. With multiple panel wiring and electromechanical assembly projects progressing simultaneously, the team has continued to deliver high-quality work while maintaining efficiency and attention to detail.

As demand continues to grow, we remain focused on providing dependable manufacturing support, precision assembly services, and reliable production solutions for customers across a wide range of sectors.

We would like to thank the entire team for their continued hard work and commitment throughout another busy week at SK Electronics.

In today’s fast-paced electronics industry, precision and reliability are more important than ever. As circuit boards become increasingly complex and production volumes continue to rise, manufacturers need advanced inspection systems that can keep up without compromising on accuracy. That’s where our latest AOI (Automatic Optical Inspection) system comes into play.

Engineered in the UK and built with cutting-edge technology, our AOI system is designed to deliver exceptional performance across every stage of the production process. Combining advanced RGBW lighting, precision laser height measurement, and intelligent PCB debugging analysis, it provides a comprehensive solution for ensuring quality, consistency, and efficiency in electronics manufacturing.

What Is AOI and Why Does It Matter?

Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI) is a key quality control process used in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs). It uses high-resolution cameras and sophisticated software to detect defects such as missing components, soldering issues, misalignment, and surface imperfections.

As production speeds increase, manual inspection becomes impractical and prone to human error. AOI systems eliminate this risk by offering consistent, repeatable inspections at high speed—ensuring that every board meets the required standard before moving further down the line.

Advanced RGBW Lighting for Superior Detection

One of the standout features of our latest AOI system is its advanced RGBW (Red, Green, Blue, White) lighting technology. Unlike traditional lighting setups, RGBW illumination enhances contrast and visibility across a wide range of components and materials.

This allows the system to:

  • Detect subtle defects that standard lighting may miss
  • Improve image clarity and inspection accuracy
  • Adapt to different PCB finishes and component types

By capturing more detailed visual data, the system ensures even the smallest imperfections are identified early—reducing the risk of faulty products reaching the end user.

Precision Laser Height Measurement

Modern PCBs are not just about surface-level inspection. Component height, solder volume, and placement accuracy all play a critical role in performance and reliability.

Our AOI system integrates precision laser height measurement to add a new dimension to inspection. This technology enables:

  • Accurate 3D measurement of components
  • Detection of lifted leads or insufficient solder
  • Verification of correct component placement

By combining 2D imaging with 3D measurement, the system provides a more complete analysis of each board—helping manufacturers catch issues that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Intelligent PCB Debugging Analysis

Inspection is only part of the process—understanding and resolving issues is just as important. That’s why our AOI system includes intelligent PCB debugging analysis, designed to streamline fault detection and improve production efficiency.

Using advanced algorithms and data analysis, the system can:

  • Identify recurring defects and patterns
  • Provide actionable insights for process improvement
  • Reduce troubleshooting time for engineers

This not only improves product quality but also helps optimise manufacturing workflows, saving both time and resources.

Built for Speed, Accuracy, and Reliability

In high-volume production environments, speed is critical—but not at the expense of accuracy. Our AOI system has been engineered to deliver both.

With rapid inspection capabilities and highly accurate detection, it ensures that production lines can operate at full capacity without compromising quality. The system’s robust design and reliable performance also minimise downtime, keeping operations running smoothly.

Supporting Modern Manufacturing Demands

As industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics continue to evolve, the demand for high-quality PCBs is only increasing. Manufacturers need inspection systems that can adapt to new challenges and maintain strict quality standards.

Our AOI solution is designed with this in mind, offering:

  • Flexibility to handle a wide range of PCB designs
  • Scalability for growing production needs
  • Compatibility with modern manufacturing processes

Whether you’re producing small batches or large-scale runs, the system provides the consistency and reliability required in today’s competitive market.

Why UK Engineering Makes a Difference

Being engineered in the UK, our AOI system reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and precision. UK manufacturing standards are recognised globally, and this expertise is built into every aspect of the system’s design and performance.

From initial development to final implementation, the focus is on delivering a solution that meets the highest expectations—because your production deserves nothing less than the best.

The Future of PCB Inspection

As technology continues to advance, so too will the demands placed on inspection systems. The integration of smarter analytics, faster processing speeds, and more advanced imaging techniques will shape the future of AOI.

Our latest system is a step in that direction—combining powerful inspection capabilities with intelligent analysis to support the next generation of electronics manufacturing.

Quality control is the backbone of successful electronics production, and investing in the right inspection technology is essential. With advanced RGBW lighting, precision laser measurement, and intelligent debugging analysis, our AOI system delivers the performance, accuracy, and reliability modern manufacturers need.

In an industry where even the smallest defect can have significant consequences, having a system you can trust makes all the difference.

 

Here at SK Electronics we have been fully supporting our front line workers and NHS throughout this whole pandemic from building and creating PPE equipment which we have sent to local NHS trusts and implementing strict social distancing measures and safety measures in our working environment.

Our team here at SK Electronics have really rallied round together in this testing time and as a family we have worked together tirelessly, as you can see our guys are proud of our local town, NHS and all the front line staff.

Recently we were visited by Councillor Fielding, he was very keen to see how SK Electronics were helping in the fight against COVID-19. Our team of engineers have been helping build ventilator system components which has never been more important in today’s climate.

Councillor Fielding also took note of the quality of the manufacturing from our Oldham base with the work we do with London Underground and other large contractors throughout the world.

Click the button below to view a video of his tour and conversations with our directors Alan and Steve.

A big shout out to Innovative Technology of Oldham, they are manufacturing Visors for the Current Covid-19 Crisis.

The Staff have volunteered to do this for free while on Furlough.

They will also supply Visors to Local Companies who enquire about them.

Here’s Tom showing us his new Visor.

Innovative Technology also have a number of face masks available to buy.

Contact Innovative Technology or visit their website for more information

0161 626 9999 or email them on PPE@Innovative-technology.com

As part of our Macmillan coffee morning on the 6th September we have some great prizes on offer so make sure you get your tickets! Call in at the office and make sure you head down for the coffee morning where we will make the draw around 1:30pm.

We are holding a Coffee morning on Friday the 6th September 2019 to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Time: 12.00 till 14.00
Place: SK Electronics Ltd Canteen

Tea/coffee cakes £2.00
Cake Raffle
Costume jewellery
Win a cake Guess the height of the cake
Scratch card.
Chill out for a while.
All welcome If you would like to make a donation please send it to Eileen or Julie at SK Electronics.

mcmillan cancer

Did you know SK Electronics Ltd manufactures our own Capacitor Trip unit?

For over 30 Years SKE has designed and manufactured our own Capacitor Trip Unit.

capacitor trip unit close up view of capacitor trip unit

The unit comes in both 110V and 240V Input versions, detailed as below:

  • Metal Enclosure, IP 66 Rated, 300x300x200mm
  • Hinged and Lockable Front Door, either Left or Right Opening (Customer Specific)
  • Removable Chassis Plate
  • Bottom or Top Gland Plate (Customer Specific)
  • Wall mountable, Kit supplied.
  • Output Voltage 110V dc- 155V dc (Max)
  • Capacitor 2200-uf approx’ 14 Joules of energy at 110V.
  • Test Switch and indicator incorporated on the Door for quick and easy field testing.

This unit is supplied to various Electricity Companies and Contractors across the UK.

It is designed to trip the shunt trip coil of a circuit breaker in the event of a power failure to the transformer, thus preventing the transformer accidentally re-energising after the power is restored.

We have many electronic services we provide from our base here in Manchester, why not speak to a member of our team to get the ball rolling with your next project?

Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI-Testing)

Automatic or automated optical inspection, AOI, is a key technique used in the manufacture and test of ALL Electronic printed circuit boards (PCB’s) currently manufactured by SK Electronics Ltd. Automatic optical inspection, AOI, enables fast and accurate inspection of electronic assemblies and in particular PCB’s, this is to ensure that the quality of product leaving the production line is high and the items are built correctly and without manufacturing faults.

The need for AOI, Automatic Optical Inspection.

Despite the major improvements that have been made, modern circuits are far more complicated than boards were even a few years ago. The introduction of surface mount technology, and the subsequent further reductions in size mean that boards are particularly compact. Even relatively average boards have thousands of soldered joints, and these are where the majority of problems are found.

This increase in the complexity of boards also means that manual inspection is not a viable option these days. Even when it was an accepted approach, it was realised that it was not particularly effective as inspectors soon tired and poor and incorrect construction was easily missed. With the marketplace now requiring high volume, high quality products to be brought to market very quickly, there is a requirement for very reliable and fast methods of Inspection and Test to ensure that product quality remains high. Therefore, SK Electronics Ltd utilises Automatic Optical Inspection in our Production Process, it is an essential tool in an integrated electronic test strategy that ensure costs are kept as low as possible by detecting faults early in the production line.

SK Electronics Ltd.’s Automatic optical inspection systems are placed into the SMD production lines both before or after the solder process, depending if Glue or Solder Paste is used. In this way they can be used to catch problems early in the production process. This has a number of advantages, due to faults costing more to fix the further along the production process they are found, this is obviously the optimum place to find faults. Additionally, process problems in the solder and assembly area can be seen early in the production process and information used to feedback quickly to earlier stages. In this way a rapid response can ensure that problems are recognised quickly and rectified before too many boards are built with the same problem.

SK Electronics Ltd, also uses Automatic Optical Inspection systems after the Flow Solder Process, this ensures the quality of Wave Soldered PCB’s, for solder quality including Bridges, Dry Joints, Unsoldered joints and placement accuracy.

What do we use?

SK Electronics Ltd made the decision to purchase AOI Machines from Mirtec Europe, who are a Global Leader in Inspection Technology. Due to the manufacturing of a very varied portfolio of Electronic Equipment and PCB’s from a large customer base. We believe the MV-2 and our latest MV-3 Machines are the best and most adaptable Machines for the production processes currently being used by SK Electronics Ltd.

 

Congratulation to John Robertson and his team at Optosafe on their recent announcement. They have just announced that they are entering into a reciprocal supply and service agreement that allows Optosafe rapid deployment solutions. For more information on this click the button below.