Modeling the effect of lead-free soldering on flexible substrates

Rizvi, M.J., Yin, Chunyan and Bailey, Christopher (2006) Modeling the effect of lead-free soldering on flexible substrates. In: Electronic Materials and Packaging, 2006, EMAP 2006, International Conference on 11-14 Dec. 2006. IEEE, Piscataway, NJ, USA, pp. 1038-1042. ISBN 1424408334; 1424408342

Abstract

Flexible Circuit Boards (FPCs) are now being widely used in the electronic industries especially in the areas of electronic packages. Due to European lead-free legislation which has been implemented since July 2006, electronic packaging industries have to switch to use in the lead-free soldering technology. This change has posed a number of challenges in terms of development of lead-free solders and compatible substrates. An increase of at least 20-50 degrees in the reflow temperature is a concern and substantial research is required to investigate a sustainable design of flexible circuit boards as carrier substrates. This paper investigates a number of design variables such as copper conductor width, type of substrate materials, effect of insulating materials, etc. Computer modeling has been used to investigate thermo-mechanical behavior, and reliability, of flexible substrates after they have been subjected to a lead- free solder processing. Results will show particular designs that behave better for a particular rise in peak reflow temperature. Also presented will be the types of failures that can occur in these substrates and what particular materials are more reliable.

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