Leading
the Way to Lead-Free
The
conversion to lead-free manufacturing is a complicated process that
requires co-operation between customer, manufacturer and material
supplier. Each is responsible for their part in ensuring that the end
product is a reliable assembly. As manufacturer, we are studying the
existing lead-free processes to determine which will be the most suitable
for our customer base. There is still no clear frontrunner in the race to
replace the standard Sn63 solder (contains 63% tin and approximately 37%
lead). Alternatives need to be put to the test before any one can emerge
as the leader. Some manufacturers may claim to already be lead-free, but
take a closer look at what that means. Have they merely swapped the
traditional lead-based solder for a lead-free alloy in their processes, or
have they actually engineered and tested their new procedures? Also, it is
doubtful if they are building with lead-free components, so new issues may
arise as the conversion continues.
Lead-free
solders have different properties than traditional lead-based solders.
They melt at higher temperatures and do not flow as smoothly. Higher
temperatures equate to higher energy usage and energy costs. Solder
defects may increase, requiring more rework. Assembly costs will rise and
the solder joints in the final product will not look as smooth as they did
in previous lead-based assemblies.
Steps
you’ll need to take in the transition to lead-free:
•
Consult with a design engineer knowledgeable in lead-free technology to
assess the unique steps you’ll need to take to convert your product to
lead-free. Since some re-engineering may be necessary, this may be a good
time to update older designs.
•
PCBs contain lead in their construction and you will need to work with the
manufacturer to convert to lead-free materials.
•
Conventional components contain lead and will need to be switched to
lead-free equivalents.
•
Consider using our turnkey services so you won’t have to worry about
locating lead-free parts and maintaining the extra inventory. Although we
can’t convert your bills of material over to lead-free equivalents, we
can help you source the parts that your engineer specifies for your
lead-free design.
•
Work on your tracking and paperwork. Shipments to European Community
nations will need to have documents certifying they’re lead-free. If
questions come up you’ll need to be able to verify the lead-free status
of components.
•
Stay abreast of the latest news on lead-free. We’ll be publishing the
latest in each newsletter and you can visit the links listed on our
website
•
Even if you’re not going lead-free: You should check with the
manufacturers of the components you use to make sure the parts won’t
become obsolete as they are replaced with lead-free versions.
Vicki
Palmer
Schippers
& Crew, Inc.