Process development and microstructural analysis of capacitor filter assemblies using lead free solder preforms

The goal of this research is process development of Pb-free capacitor filter assemblies of various sizes that use solder preforms in the shape of a washer. The Pb-free alloys considered in this research are near eutectic SAC, Sn-Ag and Indium alloys.; The reflow process is one of the most significant processes in SMT. Studies have shown that control of reflow profiles, especially the cooling rate and TAL, helps to reduce the amount of IMCs generated. A critical step to improve the reliability of Pb-free components is to control the amount of intermetallics by establishing a proper cooling rate during the reflow process.; This research work presents the detailed process development of capacitor filter assemblies starting from generating a reflow profile and finally cross-section and polishing of the samples.