Leading the charge in industrial equipment supply: an interview with Systronics' CEO

In the dynamic landscape of industrial equipment supply, especially within the electronics manufacturing sector, innovation and foresight are key. Systronics, a Swiss-based industrial equipment supplier that commenced its operations in March 2022, has quickly established itself as a frontrunner in the industry.

To delve deeper into the company's achievements and vision, we spoke with Andy Haufgartner, the CEO of Systronics. He shared insights on the company's trajectory, emerging trends in electronics manufacturing, and the roadmap for the remainder of 2023.

How have the first 6 months of 2023 been for your business?

Systronics began its operations in March 2022, and we are pleased to report that the first 6 months of 2023 have exceeded our expectations. We had an excellent start, thanks to successful partnerships with well-known suppliers in the electronics industry, such as Mycronic, Asscon, Innolas, Inertec and more.

What emerging technologies or trends do you see shaping the future of electronics manufacturing? How is your company preparing to adapt to these changes?

We believe that AI technologies, robotics, and automation trends will have a significant impact on the future of electronics manufacturing. At Systronics, we aim to be a solution provider and are actively working with strategic partners to stay ahead of these technological advancements. By collaborating and sharing knowledge with our clients, we can remain flexible and well-informed about the latest developments.

What new equipment, tools, or machinery are you most excited about? How do you anticipate these innovations impacting the overall manufacturing process?

Personally, I find dispensing technologies the most fascinating, as they overcome a wide variety of challenges. Particularly exciting is Mycronic's MY700 jet printer, which is unmatched in terms of speed and accuracy. We expect this innovation to significantly improve the manufacturing process as we see continued advancements in its third generation.

Are you seeing any notable shifts in terms of customer demand for certain products? If so, what is driving this change in demand?  

Certainly, we have seen a growing interest among our customers in environmentally conscious solutions. For example, there is a significant shift towards UV/LED-based coating materials that offer energy-saving benefits and minimise evaporation. Overall, there is an increasing demand for more sustainable technologies, and we are striving to meet these changing requirements.

What advancements in automation and/or robotics do you see playing a significant role in the electronics manufacturing industry?

Advancements in automation and robotics are crucial in enhancing various aspects of electronics manufacturing, including:

• Improving production speed and accuracy in tasks like component assembly and soldering.
• Reducing labor-intensive processes and minimising human error.
• Enabling the manufacturing of complex products that require precision handling.
• Enhancing workplace safety by automating hazardous tasks.

Investing in robotic systems and automation remains a priority for us to optimise our operations and boost productivity.

How do you see digitalisation, data analytics, and IoT technologies integrating into the equipment you supply? What challenges exist?

Digitalisation, data analytics, and IoT technologies are becoming integral parts of the equipment supplied in the electronics manufacturing industry. These technologies offer benefits like:

• Remote monitoring and predictive maintenance to reduce downtime.
• Real-time data analysis for process optimisation and quality control.
• Enhanced traceability and supply chain visibility for better product tracking.

However, challenges such as data security, interoperability, and implementation costs need to be addressed to fully leverage these technologies.

At Systronics, we see this as an opportunity and are currently engaging in discussions with several partners to focus on predictive maintenance. Our daily commitment is to minimise downtime and improve operational efficiency.

Are there any partnerships or collaborations your company has established with other industry players which will help accelerate the development of new technologies or solutions?

Yes, we have partnered with other industry players to foster collaboration and innovation. By working with key stakeholders, we aim to accelerate the development of leading-edge technologies and solutions for the benefit of our customers and the industry as a whole.

What is your outlook for the remainder of 2023?

Although July was relatively quiet, we have several exciting projects underway. Our focus is on expanding our business and making strategic advancements. We are committed to delivering high-quality products and services and are optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Finally, is there anything else you would like to share about Systronics with our readers?

At Systronics, we take pride in our commitment to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to the electronics manufacturing industry. Our partnerships, continuous pursuit of advancements, and dedication to meeting customer demands drive our success. We look forward to continuing to grow and make a positive impact in the industry.

Systronics exemplifies the blend of Swiss precision and innovative spirit in the industrial equipment supply sector. Their commitment to sustainability, technological advancements, and strategic collaborations positions them as a beacon for the future of electronics manufacturing.

As the landscape of the industry continues to transform, it's evident that Systronics will be at the forefront, guiding the way. We're grateful to Andy for sharing these invaluable perspectives and eagerly anticipate the continued ascent of Systronics in the global arena.