LOM Metal Capabilities centered in Zhuhai, China
The trend towards using metals in mobile devices has become well established. Demand is growing continuously since metals are becoming a more common cover material also in moderately priced mobile devices. Lite-On Mobile will offer all of its customers an extensive metal solutions portfolio and flexible manufacturing capacity at the new metals manufacturing site.
The new manufacturing site in Zhuhai, Southern China will assemble the best metal know-how within LOM at one location to offer a wide range of metal technologies for all customers. Mass production will start up during Q2 of this year.
The metal technologies available in Zhuhai include Al-forging, anodizing, micro-perforation, visual laser etching, CNC and 3D diamond cutting, among others. In addition to metal processing, there will also be a subassembly line. “Zhuhai manufacturing site will focus on punching, forging and decoration of aluminum alloy in the first stage,” explains Michael Chuang , Director, Metal BCU.
One of the newest technologies to be used in Zhuhai is forging. This technology has been used earlier in the manufacturing of wristwatches. Forging makes it possible to manufacture large metal parts with real 3D effects. The technology reduces post-treatments like adhesion, laser welding screw towers and assembly functions. Also, different kinds of decorative micro-perforations to get light though the cover and 3D cuttings are available to make decoration cost effective.
LOM’s portfolio of metals will continue the company’s expansion according to customer needs.
“We intend and fully expect to achieve commodity excellence in metals. We are ready to work hard to stay one step ahead of our competitors and offer the latest know-how to our customers,” Michael Chuang says.