StenTech, a maker of surface mount technology (SMT) stencils and a portfolio company of Align Capital Partners (ACP), has merged with BlueRing Stencils.
SMT stencils are precision-cut metal sheets—typically made from stainless steel—with apertures designed to apply solder paste or adhesives to designated areas on printed circuit boards (PCBs). These stencils play a critical role in surface mount technology by enabling accurate material deposition during PCB assembly. SMT stencils are widely used across the semiconductor and electronics manufacturing sectors.
BlueRing Stencils is a maker of laser-cut stencils and nano-coatings that are used to improve paste transfer efficiency, as well as stencil design and development services. Customers of the company include printed circuit board assemblers and contract manufacturers requiring high-precision stencils for surface mount applications. BlueRing Stencils was founded in 2017 and is headquartered near Dallas in Lewisville, Texas.
StenTech is a manufacturer of surface mount technology (SMT) stencils and other tooling products used in the electronics manufacturing industry. According to StenTech, it is the single largest provider of SMT stencils in North America.
In addition to its SMT stencils, StenTech also provides wave solder pallets; RF metal shielding, lids and fencing; tooling; and other components. The company, led by CEO Kevin Keene, has more than 2,000 OEM and Tier 1 contract manufacturing customers and is headquartered in Dallas with additional facilities across the United States (10), Mexico (5), and Canada (4).
“This merger strengthens our ability to support our customers with the most advanced solutions in the industry while continuing to drive innovation and operational excellence,” said Mr. Keene. “By combining our expertise, we are setting a new standard in precision manufacturing, reinforcing our commitment to service excellence and long-term industry leadership.”
“The partnership with BlueRing strengthens our ability to anticipate the challenges electronics manufacturers face—before they happen,” said Brent Nolan, the president and COO of StenTech. “By combining advanced technology, deep expertise, and proactive problem-solving, we ensure our customers stay ahead of the curve.”
The acquisition of BlueRing is the third add-on closed by StenTech since it was acquired by ACP in May 2022. The two earlier acquisitions were Advanced Tooling Design, a California-based provider of stencils and tooling used in the electronics assembly industry (December 2022); and Photo Etch Technology, a Massachusetts-based manufacturer of surface-mount technology stencils, mesh screens, and related parts with additional facilities in California, Florida, and New Jersey (August 2023).
According to ACP, the merger of StenTech with BlueRing creates the only North American provider of nano coating and electroform stencils.
Align Capital Partners typically invests between $20 million and $60 million in North American-based companies with EBITDA ranging from $3 million to $15 million and enterprise values of up to $150 million. Its sectors of focus include software and tech-enabled services, professional business services, industrial services, specialty manufacturing, and specialty distribution.
In November 2022, ACP closed its third fund, Align Capital Partners Fund III LP, above its target with $620 million in capital commitments. The firm has offices in Dallas and Cleveland.
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