Photonics centre invests in new plasma technology

The EPIC Centre, built to serve the Electronics and Photonics industry, recently acquired an advanced plasma treatment system from UK based manufacturer Henniker Plasma.

The newly opened Centre, based in Torbay, aims to serve current and future users wishing to draw on its facilities providing them with the opportunity to expand their capabilities through investment in modern technological advances.

Henniker Plasma was approached by EPIC to provide them with a plasma technology solution.

Wayne Loschi, EPIC Centre director, feels it could attract more tech businesses to the region.

He said: “Historically Henniker have worked with numerous academic institutes and industrial companies to develop processes from inception to completion, making them the ideal candidate.”

Plasma technology has been an important production tool for more than 30 years in the fabrication of microelectronic devices. Over this period, the technology has also permeated a much broader range of industries including automotive, medical device, textiles, and aerospace to name but a few.

Plasma treatments are used to alter the surface properties of a wide range of materials to make them easier to bond, glue and paint. By treating parts, they both clean and activate the surface, improving their adhesion characteristics.