Enthone Introduces OrmeSTAR™ Ultra Nanofinish®, Organic Metal-based PWB Final Finish

WEST HAVEN, Connecticut, USA, February 16, 2009 – Enthone Inc., a business of Cookson Electronics, has introduced OrmeSTAR Ultra PWB final finish. The Organic Metal-based, nanofinish® technology consumes approximately 90% less energy and creates less waste versus electroless nickel / immersion gold (ENIG) and other traditional metallic final finishes. When compared to ENIG, OrmeSTAR Ultra reduces process time by 75%. The finish costs 30% less then ENIG, with no “black pad” risk. The versatile process delivers a high efficiency in application and operation throughout the entire supply chain.

OrmeSTAR Ultra provides a halogen-free coating that enables superior lead-free soldering with a surface conductivity comparable to pure gold. Signal transmission outperforms that of ENIG finishes. The nanofinish generates a visible coating that allows for ease of inspection and high first-pass yields with NO false failures at in-circuit test. Because there are no intermediate metals present, the solder bonds directly to copper to form the industry’s strongest solder joints.

OrmeSTAR Ultra bonds with copper without a displacement reaction, ensuring long bath life, no microvoids, and no solder mask interface attack. The durable coating allows for wipe downs on misprinted assemblies with no copper oxidation. Hold (dwell) time between thermal cycles is similar to other metal finishes. Application during PWB fabrication can occur before electrical test. Low application temperatures, minimal water usage and long bath life make OrmeSTAR Ultra the most environmentally friendly HASL alternative.

OrmeSTAR Ultra offers the reliability and easy application of an organic solderability preservative (OSP), with the durability and properties of a metal finish. For further information, click Here.

About Enthone
Enthone Inc. is a business of Cookson Electronics. The company is a leading supplier of high performance specialty chemicals and coatings used in the electronics and surface finishing industries. Enthone manufactures markets and distributes its functional, decorative and electronic processes that are used in printed wiring board, semiconductor, photovoltaic, automotive, aerospace, jewelry, and plumbing applications. In September 2008 Enthone acquired Ormecon International, where the nanofinish technology was developed. For more information, please visit www.cooksonelectronics.com.