Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

How can I develop a good lead-free hand-soldering process, which will ease the operation?

April 26, 2017develop EASE good Lead-Free operation process

0

Posted

How can I develop a good lead-free hand-soldering process, which will ease the operation?

1 Answer

0

Posted

In a recent study, which appeared in the Lead-free Update by TechSearch International in December 2004, hand-soldering was found to be more problematic to implement when compared to lead-free wave soldering and SMT. The reason could be that hand-soldering is more operator dependant than reflow and wave soldering but also the surface tension in lead-free solders is slightly higher. Wetting or spread is also a little slower when compared to 63/37. To reduce operator issues and reduced wetting proper optimization of the soldering process is key. To avoid issues use a flux content of 2-3% by weight in the solder wire, use a solder tip temperature of 700-800º F. Also Tin-Silver-Copper (SAC) solder will flow more readily than Tin-Copper (SnCu) solder. The main issues encountered with lead-free hand-soldering are cold solder joints, poor wetting and de-wetting. These can be avoided.