Reliable Testing of new Lead-Free Solder Connections

Manufacturers are now having to replace traditional solders made from Sn60Pb40 with SnAg or SnAgCu and introduce these into the production process. The use of elements such as tin, silver, and copper in place of lead presents a number of challenges including higher processing temperatures andreduced time for the melting process.

The multitude of new lead-free solder metals show a lack of long-term experience regarding the reliability of lead-free solder connections. One way to prevent failures is through an efficient materials testing program. Zwick provides tailored testing solutions to solve these problems: the Pro Line testing machines were developed especially for such component testing and in order to meet the increasing demand for high quality and affordable testing machines in quality assurance environments.

Pro Line boasts a wide range of accessories including specimen grips, compression and flexure test kits, as well as special testing kits and associated tools and fixtures enabling tests on solder to be configured with ease.

Tensile tests allow qualitative measurements of the mechanical strength of solder joints. Special fixtures such as quick-action vises or T-slot base plates enable tests on an assembled printed circuit board to be carried out quickly, accurately, and efficiently.

A compound table can also be provided to facilitate testing of multiple components on a single printed circuit board. In addition, durability tests allow a statement to be made concerning the long-term performance of a solder connection by subjecting the connectors to fatigue.

As with all Zwick materials testing machines, the Pro Line is designed to operate with the universal testing software test X pert II, which controls the complete test sequence including monitoring of all safety systems in real time. This ensures that operator safety is ensured at all times. With precise, reliable testing machines and intelligent software, Zwick delivers tailor-made solutions for testing application in modern mechanical materials testing.

EPP EUROPE 454