RDS Magazine Dryer
A new world of drying methods: Optimal for high-temperature applications
Rehm offers the new RDS magazine dryer for this area. The energy efficient and sustainable system was developed as part of the HotAL research project (high temperature-optimised AL-bonding technology for offshore applications). The goal is to optimise performance electronics modules through the use of innovative materials and process management for high-temperature applications. Along with Rehm, Fraunhofer IZM Berlin and the industry partners Heraeus, SEMIKRON and F & K Delvotec Bondtechnik took part in this project that was supported by BMBF.
Unique technology benefits
- Temperatures up to 300 °C possible
- Residual oxygen values <5000 ppm O2 possible
- Stable elevation profile through lock system and good thermal insulation
- Steady heating of components at the lowest ∆ T
- High-performance cooling zones with temperatures of 20 °C
Innovative drying technology
The new RDS magazine dryer from Rehm is the perfect system with inert gas operation for tempering power modules. The system can reach temperatures of up to 300°C and residual oxygen values of less than 5,000 ppm O2. It impresses with its innovative lock system as well as thermal insulation that enables a stable elevation profile when in process. The RDS magazine dryer is particularly suitable for the thermal treatment of semiconductor applications, hybrid constructions and electronic components that are transported in magazines. Examples of these would include electronic components in wind turbines, electric cars or inverters in the solar energy sector.
An overview of the RDS Magazine Dryer
The system consists of a lock system at the inlet and the outlet, four heat zones, and a cooling zone. In order to achieve an atmosphere with low levels of oxygen, locks on the magazine are necessary where possible. A three-part handling process at the inlet and outlet guarantees that the compartments can open and close independently of each other. In this way, an inert process chamber is guaranteed in every loading situation. The magazines are transferred to the lock zones with a so-called lifting transport. During the loading process, the lifting transport unit with the hoist is lowered below the level of the transport chamber and simultaneously unloads the magazine onto this. The magazine is unloaded using the opposite principle. The magazine dryer prototype can be loaded and unloaded manually. The system is designed so that it can be fed using a handling system if necessary. Due to the flexible transport options, a small throughput during prototype production as well as a high throughput during future regular service is possible. Magazines with the maximum dimensions of 460 mm high, 240 mm wide and 240 mm deep can be transported using a three-part handling process with a base carrier plate. The cycle time can be a minimum of 3 minutes up to a maximum of 24 hours. There is good thermal separation from the process chamber due to the compartments and the 80 mm thick insulation. The exchange of hot and cold gas flows can be effectively prevented which results in lower electrical power consumption.
Schema RDS Magazine Dryer
- Loading
Loading of the magazines by hand or using a handling system in the goods carriers with exact positioning.
- Lifting transport/inlet
A lifting mechanism feeds the magazines to the process chamber transporter.
- N2-Tunnel
A low level of residual oxygen in the N2-Tunnel is guaranteed due to the lock system. Compartments eliminate air leakage.
- Pre-heating/heating
The four heat zones guarantee steady heating of all the components in the magazine at the lowest ∆ T.
- Cooling
Optimal thermal separation is achieved through a compartment between the heat and cooling zone. Cooling zone temperatures of 20 °C are possible.
- N2-Tunnel
The locks in the outlet area ensure a lower ppm value in the process chamber and a stable elevation profile.
- Lifting transport/outlet
The magazines are transported to the outlet in the same way as the lifting transport at the inlet. The process chamber compartments remain closed.
- Unloading
Manual or automated unloading of the magazine.
Dimensions
Length without handling system: 3625 mm
Width: 1355 mm
Height: 1795 mm
Conveyor
Conveyor height: 950 mm ± 50 mm
Maximum magazine size: H x L x D = 460 x 240 x 240 mm
Cycle time: 3 min up to 24 hours
Exhaust air
Exhaust volume flow rate: 400 m³/h
Pressure: 5 mbar
Process parameters
Tmax = 300 °C
Residual oxygen values <5000 ppm O2
Magazine on carrier plates
Inlet transport in a lowered position
Efficient EC fan motors