Nests Increase Test Efficiency

TORLON 5530 PAI

Benefits of 5530 PAI in this application:
. Devices fit precisely into nest for accurate and reliable testing
. Insertion shock damage no longer a factor
. Post machining stress relief eliminated
Background: Robotic nests are used to pick up and protect devices during testing. Nests have four
walls forming a box with a hole in the center to allow a vacuum to firmly hold the device in place. The
delicate device pins rest on top of the four walls which provide "back support' and protection during
high speed/high force compression into electrical test sockets.

Problem: Devices must fit precisely inside the boxes with minimal movement while operating over
the test temperature range of -55 to 155'C
Change in a nest's dimensions can damage the fragile device or cause bad test results.
Both are very expensive process yield issues for a device manufacturer. Polyimides are often used
for test nests, but have a high coefficient of linear thermal expansion and last only 1 month in use.

Solution: New glass reinforced Torlon 5530 PAI nests last up to 6 months -at least 5 times longer
than the previously used nests machined from polyimide. The plastics low coefficient of linear thermal
expansion results in highly reliable testing and fewer device rejects.

This material is a glass-filled (30%) polyamide-imid which is created by compression molding.
The random dispersing of glass fibers during the molding process allows for increased stability
in a dimensional form. 5530 is not only durable and strong, but insulated and is extremely
resistant to radiation.

In general, this industrial plastic is among one of the best performers
-High Impact Strength
- Resistant up to 500 Degrees Fahrenheit
-Can perform under severe stress
-Dimensionally stable

Emco Plastics is a plastics distributor and supplier of Torlon in every form. The following
materials are also available: 4203, 4301, 5030 and 7130

Visit www.emcoplastics.com for more information