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Description / Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
What does good solderability mean?
Solderability has been defined to varying levels of detail
depending on the observer's immediate perspective. The fundamental
definition from which they develop, however, s that good
solderability means the ability of a base mental to be evenly
wetted with an adherent coat of solder [1] [2]. Due to a desire for
a cosmetically "shiny" joint, the definition has been pragmatically
expanded by some to also include additional characteristics of
solder fillet surface luster or smoothness. [3]
How is poor solderability identified? How is it
measured?
Poor printed circuit (PWD) solderability may be identified in
any one of several ways both prior and subsequent to the soldering
process. A number of industry standard tests[4] and equipment exist
for evaluating both the extent of solder wettability of a surface
and the resulting mechanical strength of the bonds accomplished.
Frequently, statistically validated, testing has become standard
practice at most of the world's major PWB suppliers to provide
manufacturing process control and screen outgoing lots.
Why is it important? Results of poor
solderability.
Poor product solderability at the least involves added
inspection and touchup costs. At worst it may precipitate a
catastrophic circuit failure.
Unfortunately, often the most common point of solderability
problem identification is after components have already been
assembled to the circuit and it has passed through the soldering
process. The purpose of soldering components to a circuit is to
provide both a low resistance electrical path and a primary
(surface mount) or secondary means of mechanical retention in/on
the circuit.
Inadequate solder at the component/circuit interface leads
increases the probability of increased electrical resistance,
circuit "hot spots", intermittent performance, and potential
circuit failure. In a consumer product, this may be of relatively
small consequence. In a system control or life support application,
it may have catastrophic results.
One of the most frequent symptoms of poor solderability is a
dewetted PWB surface[5]. A second may involve plated through holes
which fill partly or not at all. The lack of fill may not decrease
the reliability of any specific hole, but in the case of an MLB,
can be a "process indicator" alerting the assembly operation of
other latent problems with overall interconnection quality and
reliability.
What are the primary design issues influencing soldering
capability?
Good product soldering performance occurs as a result of good
design practices, well specified and sourced materials, strong
manufacturing process controls, and attention to detail. The first
phase of ensuring product solderability is rooted in the
fundamentals of the product design process. The product should be
viewed as a system of interrelated parts, assembled to accomplish a
customer defined function (who else would you build it for?)
Given a failure of any one of those composite parts will result
in some limitation of product performance to specification. The
must take into consideration issues relating to materials, layout,
process capability/limitations.