The electronics industry is entering a critical period with only seven months to go before the EU’s RoHS directive deadline. Elfnet, the European lead-free soldering network – has been working to tackle the key remaining implementation issues for this technology-change of paradigm in board assembly. “The objective of our initiative is to coordinate, integrate and optimize the critical mass of European research in lead-free soldering. This is in line with our aim to provide pan-European support for the implementation of the RoHS directive”, explains coordinator Jeremy Pearce. In the project, industry groups drew up and prioritized lists of implementation issues for lead-free technology. This work has led to a harmonized list in the ‘Issues to Solutions Matrix’ published on the project website. In addition, a set of next initiatives has been launched, to reach united solutions. It appears that as the closing date approaches, the focus is on the supply chain and compliance, though a number of key issues still remain. Priority action topics are: materials declaration; marking, labeling and component numbering; obsolescence; compatibility; reliability; tin whiskers; large and complex boards, harsh environments; and solder alloy properties. The initiative urges the European research community to come forward and work together within this European Commission founded framework.
EPP EUROPE 414
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