Here are some expert tips on how to make this decision:
1. Affordability
In terms of a comparison between HASL lead-free and HASL leaded, we would say that the former is more costly. Therefore, if you are on a tight budget or want to save money, going for a HASL lead finish is a better way to save money.
2. RoHS compliance
Given the health and bodily harm issues associated with the use of electronic equipment, the depth of exposure that cross-checking a circuit board brings to the user is worthwhile.
RoHS compliance is now the standard for most PCB projects and most consumers are paying attention in this direction. For this reason, choosing HASL lead-free products is a better option if you want to make RoHS-compliant circuit boards.
This is so because of the greater concentration of tin and a small amount of copper. As no lead is used here, you can be sure that the negative health issues it raises are nothing to worry about.
An important factor for success, however, is if there are no fine-pitch components on the PCB. Components like BGAs and SMDs are not ideal in this respect.
3. Durability requirements
In addition to protecting copper and other important components, the function of the surface treatment should extend to improving the durability of the PCB. The more durable a board becomes as a result of its application, the longer it will last.
4. Application and operability
The application, i.e. where the board coated with any of these finishes will be used, is an important consideration. For this reason, the application or use case must be taken into account to help make the appropriate selection.
5. Consider the environment
Do not confuse the environment with the application or use case. By environment here we mean the type or level of exposure that the printed circuit board (PCB) is likely to be exposed to once it has been coated with a surface finish.
Environment usually refers to the level of temperature – whether it is harsh or mild. For best results, use HASL lead-free products as it is RoHS compliant, which makes it friendly to both the user and the surrounding environment.
6. Choose ENIG over HASL lead-free surface treatment
The three (3) main options before you for PCB surface finishing are HASL, HASL Lead Free and ENIG. Although these three materials have different properties, one may just be a better choice than the others.
Firstly, you should choose HASL lead-free over HASL because it is RoHS compliant, which means that it is possible to use it for a wide range of PCB finishes. The fact that it offers excellent solderability is another selling point.
On the other hand, if you want to save money and work on PCBs that require lower temperatures, then HASL is a good choice.
If you are not sure if both HASL lead-free and HASL will get the job done, then choosing electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) is the best option. In addition, ENIG has almost the same characteristics as lead-free HASL, such as being RoHS compliant.
Zhejiang NeoDen Technology Co., Ltd. has been manufacturing and exporting various small pick and place machines since 2010. Taking advantage of our own rich experienced R&D, well trained production, NeoDen wins great reputation from the world wide customers.
We believe that great people and partners make NeoDen a great company and that our commitment to Innovation, Diversity and Sustainability ensures that SMT automation is accessible to every hobbyist everywhere.
Add: No.18, Tianzihu Avenue, Tianzihu Town, Anji County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
Phone: 86-571-26266266
Post time: Apr-20-2023