What are the important issues relating to lead-free solder?
Compatibility Soldered surfaces must be free of lead to begin with. This includes the PCB as well as the component. Lead contamination on a lead-free solder joint will significantly reduce the reliability of the joint. Temperature All lead-free alloys melt at a higher temperature than traditional tin-lead alloys. The temperature of the soldering iron may need to be increased, and both the components and PCB will need to withstand these higher levels. Increased temperatures also place a greater demand on the flux, and it may be necessary to opt for a higher solids content, or more active flux if the soldering becomes difficult when using lead-free materials.
