Kurtz Ersa Inc., a leading supplier of electronics production equipment, announced that Joe Clure, Applications Engineer at Kurtz Ersa, Inc., will deliver three sessions during APEX 2026, taking place March 17–19. His participation includes one technical paper presentation and two industry panel discussions, highlighting current research and practical strategies for electronics manufacturing.
On Tuesday, March 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Clure will co-present the technical paper, “Clean Reflow Process Using Efficient Targeted Cleaning Methods,” as part of the S3 SMT Process 1: Solder Reflow Processes & Reliability track. Co-authored with Michael Haas of Kurtz Ersa GmbH and Daniel Gaynes of Kurtz Ersa, Inc., the presentation examines a long-term test protocol designed to measure improvements achieved through targeted cleaning approaches in reflow soldering systems. The study evaluates operational and economic efficiencies compared to traditional non-targeted cleaning methods, offering data-driven insight into improving reliability and process performance in surface mount reflow applications.
On Wednesday, March 18 from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m., Clure will participate in the panel discussion “The Mystery of Void Formation.” The session brings together industry experts to explore the multiple and often overlooked causes of voiding in solder joints. In addition to solder pad geometry and paste selection, panelists will address contributing factors such as solder mask outgassing and contamination between PCB layers. Attendees can expect an open discussion focused on identifying root causes and avoiding misdiagnosis when addressing void-related reliability concerns.
Clure will also participate in the panel discussion “Smarter Training for Smarter Machines: Empowering Teams That Keep Equipment Running” on Thursday, March 19 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. This session convenes industry experts to discuss strategies for improving technical training effectiveness. Topics include scaling training programs globally, adapting to rapidly evolving equipment technologies, addressing workforce skills gaps, and ensuring alignment across regions. The discussion will provide practical insights for manufacturers seeking to accelerate installations, reduce support demands, and improve overall equipment performance through stronger training programs.
Joe Clure supports customers across North America with process optimization, application development, and technical expertise in soldering technologies. His participation at APEX reflects Kurtz Ersa’s continued engagement in industry dialogue surrounding process reliability, equipment performance, and workforce development.
