Incap UK invests in SMT technology as part of long-term operational development

Incap Electronics UK has completed the second phase of SMT (surface-mount technology) production lines upgrade at its facility in Newcastle-under-Lyme. The approximately EUR 1.9 million (GBP 1.6 million) investment is part of Incap’s broader strategy to strengthen its global operations in line with the growing scale of the business.

The new SMT lines feature high-precision Panasonic printers and advanced placement machines, supported by intelligent feeders and barcode-based scanning systems. The upgrade has allowed Incap UK to consolidate from four lines to two more efficient and flexible ones, improving production flow and reducing operational costs. It also supports efficiency improvements within the manufacturing cycle through advanced software and enhanced machine capability.

“This investment strengthens our ability to support current and future customer demand while also improving operational efficiency,” said Jamie Maughan, Managing Director of Incap Electronics UK. “We have also signed a new 10-year lease for our facility, which reflects our long-term commitment to our customers, employees, and the region.”

The upgraded SMT lines have increased overall production capacity by over 55%, with further improvements expected. They have also led to quality improvements, including a 49% reduction in defects over the past year. In addition, the new lines accommodate larger PCB sizes and enable improved data gathering to support future ERP system integration. The enhancements also provide flexibility to scale capacity further as needed.

“It was great to be at Incap Electronics UK this morning for the official opening of their new technology and production lines. This investment is helping to secure local jobs and deliver British-made products for our National Health Service (NHS) and the defence sector. Thank you to all the staff for making me feel so welcome and for their hard work and dedication to this local company. It’s great to see this new technology in operation and creating more capacity for lifesaving equipment being made right here in Newcastle-under-Lyme,” said Adam Jogee, Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme.

With both upgraded SMT lines now fully operational, Incap UK is well positioned to support continued business growth and respond to future technological requirements.

Incap’s UK factory, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, provides full turn-key product supply including PCBAs, electro-mechanical assembly, cable and wire harness assembly alongside a dedicated standalone rapid prototyping facility (Fast Track), and maintenance, repair, and overhaul services (MRO). The factory has 4,400 square metres of total floor space and has experience in manufacturing since 1974, including over 20 years of experience in the defence, security, and aerospace markets.