PCB Manufacturing and Lead vs. Lead-Free Solder

The applications of the OEM circuit are known for covering a broad range of commercial and consumer products, such as from microwaves to cars to IoT equipment for automating and offering smart functioning. Throughout the years, PCB manufacturing companies have followed the industry’s challenges and responded to the changes in new practices and technologies. These miniaturizations are also the primary challenge of PCBs and FPCs, as well as the rising demand for sustainable devices.

The process of Printed Circuit Board manufacturing consists of less energy and employs non-toxic, low carbon emissions, and sustainable materials. Many people also opt for lead solder. In this article, we are going to discuss lead vs. lead-free solder. It is essential for you to learn which solder is best to handle and discuss the guidelines restricting using dangerous substances in electronic and electrical equipment.

What Are Lead And Lead-Free Solders Made Up Of?

When understanding the difference between lead-free vs. lead solder, it is necessary to know that lead solder is the combination of different metals and lead and tin as the base component. Years ago, the new United States plumbing systems banned water supply pipes and lead pipes connected with lead solder. Later on, the risks of lead with soldering were recognized, and the lead solder then became a health hazard for commercial uses. The fumes and dust induced by the lead solder are toxic when it is in the body.

Due to these reasons, the lead soler is still phased out because of its negative health implications. But as a product manufacturing company, you want to work with someone who uses top-notched components with soldered, dependable connections and PCB circuitry.

Lead-free solder, on the other hand, is used for conventional 63/37 SnPb solder. In today’s time, lead-free solder formulations have the following:

• Copper
• Nickel.
• Tin.
• Silver.
• Zinc.
• Bismuth
• Antimony.

The final aim is to get quality solder alloys that will provide the best mechanical properties when mixed with other metal traces.

Lead vs. Lead-free Solder: Comparison

Determining soldering temperatures is based on the quality and mix of the alloy, but generally, the 60/40 tin and lead solder begins to melt at 361 degrees Fahrenheit. If the tin content is higher, it will increase the boiling point and the product costs. The lead solder with tin is manageable since they flow better and quickly brings the product to the working temperature.

But, regarding safety, lead solder is best and should be used only when the regulatory companies permit it. It should also be eliminated properly. Lead can negatively harm the body and is toxic while being hazardous since the bloodstream quickly absorbs it. The lead-free solder tends to melt at a high temperature of 422°F. High temperature makes it necessary to make changes in the lead-free solder manufacturing methods; the joint will be made up of lead-free solder. Since the lead-free solder does not get wet and the lead solder, you will get the different joints’ look.

Factors To Keep In Mind

The dependability of the soldered connections or the circuit hinges on eliminating the soldering issues. To do this, several factors should be considered, such as:

• Vibration.
• Temperature.
• Operator skill levels.
• Preheating throughput and time.
• Tin whisker.

All of these factors and the use of top-notched solder paste play an essential role in the manufacturing of reliable PCBs. And in terms of lead-free solders, it all comes down to getting the right formula that matches the appropriate application. It is where the PCB fabricator comes into play. Your partner should have immense expertise in RoHS material Compliance.

When considering the solderability and lead vs. lead-free solder joints, you will get a noticeable soldering joint. The lead solder will form a smooth, shiny joint and provide a quality look. However, the customer may not notice the difference between the PCBs.

Effects On Different Soldering Types

The use of lead solder and lead-free solder also has issues with the end product quality. However, this effect will be minimized when the PCB manufacturing company will then follows the controlled soldering process. The designing of the PCB and the appropriate components can overcome the majority of quality control issues.

The lead-free solder products that wave the soldering are based on the design and the product requirements of the end PCB assembly.

The higher temperature linked with the lead-free solder offers an efficient board layout. The component selections will be important for preventing metal decomposition or causing damage to sensitive electrical components. It is true during the reflow when the higher temperature is present for a long time.

RoHS and Contract PCB Manufacturing companies

Quality customer products demand lead solder connections that do not bring in the hidden resistance in the circuit or serve as the heat intermediary that promotes thermal-mechanical stress. When specifying the lead-free solder for the printed circuit board manufacturing, there will be less chance of dry and cold joints that do not have mechanical strength.

The PCB manufacturer must help you to handle all types of RoHS material compliance problems that will affect the production of electronic PCBs. Since the US market is going through a change to lead-free solder practices, most companies will follow Europe’s RoHS with regulations on the usage of lead in electronics. In other words, your electrical devices can be made in the US and sold in EU countries.

The single modification for the lead vs. lead-free solder technique can change the PCB device and the manufacturing process. The PCB contractors aim to ensure that the PCB and the final products are made effectively and at cost-effective rates without compromising the marketing time.

Benefits Of Lead Free Solder

• Good For Health

Using the lead free solder is beneficial for humans. Short-term exposure to lead can cause the following health issues such as:

• Tiredness.
• Headaches.
• Weakness.
• Memory loss.
• Pain in hands and feet.
• Abdominal pain.

Higher lead levels and long-term exposure can lead to severe health issues such as brain damage to death.

The lead free solder is the best option for the wellness and health of both the workers and the users of the devices.

• Good For Environment

Lead solder can cause havoc on nature. Lead can contaminate the soil and air when it settles. Plants also can absorb the metal dust through the leaves, and shavings can go into the waterways and grounds. With so many electronic devices, most of them end up in landfills. Using the lead free solder is essential for reducing the negative impact of lead on the environment and the general public.

• Best For Electrical Circuit Board Soldering

Compared to lead solder, the lead free solder is the best option for the EPCB. Lead free solder does not spread out during the reflow. It creates stronger bonds without major challenges, such as rapid stencil wear. Lead soldering is prone to causing filet lifting and voids.

Conclusion

These are the primary difference between lead solder and lead free solder. The best way to make the right choice is to consider your needs and demands and work with a reputed PCB manufacturing company that can suggest the right items for PCB materials, soldering, and lamination. The right company will help you to choose the right items and help you to learn the pros and cons of lead and lead-free substrate