Enhanced Reflow Heater Controls Allow Lead-Free BGA Rework at Lower Air Temperatures
OK International APR-5000-XLS Array Package Rework System meets narrow lead-free process window for perfect rework every time
OK International has announced optimized heating for lead-free BGA rework, allowing users of the APR-5000-XLS Array Package Rework System to reflow lead-free BGAs without incurring excessive lid temperatures, re-melting soldered joints outside the rework area, warping of the PCB or distorting the plastic bodies of connectors such as RJ45s.
"Lead-free BGA rework requires new heating algorithms because peak reflow temperatures are close to the maximum lid temperature of 250°C-260°C recommended by IC vendors and the IPC," said Paul Wood, Market Development Manager for OK International. "The new software-controlled heating scheme allows operators to work within the narrow lead-free process window, and is easy to use requiring no additional training or setup time."
The APR-5000-XLS has a total of six convection heaters for underboard heating, as well as the upper nozzle for focused heating of the device undergoing rework. The revised heating algorithm now allows selected underboard nozzles to be used simultaneously with the upper heater to apply the desired reflow profile only in the area to be reworked. This saves operators setting excessive nozzle temperatures.
With conventional BGA rework stations, nozzle temperatures around 300°C can be needed to overcome the temperature gradient across the BGA package to reflow interconnects on the underside at a peak temperature between 240°C and 260°C. As a result, the IC lid temperature can become high enough to damage the package, the internal interconnects, or the die.
In the new algorithm, the six underboard heaters pre-heat the entire board to 190°C. The four outer heaters are then turned off, leaving just two underboard heaters directly beneath the rework site turned on. These operate in combination with the upper heater to reflow the array interconnects using much lower nozzle temperatures than conventional rework stations. This combined heating from above and below the BGA device reduces the temperature gradient set up across the package. The peak temperature of the package can then be held below the IPC recommended maximum 260°C, as the array interconnects reach a suitable temperature to reflow.
In addition, convection air heating above and below the board enables accurate and responsive temperature control, thereby preventing air temperatures from overshooting the desired target. Temperature overshoot presents another hazard that can damage sensitive semiconductor devices.
OK International has received US patent approval for its dual zone convection preheater, which will deliver a fast and cost-effective solution for manufacturers seeking to improve productivity and yield when reworking double-sided, lead-free assemblies incorporating area array packages.
About OK International
OK International is a leading global supplier of products for production assembly equipment. The product range includes bench top soldering and desoldering tools, array package rework equipment, fluid dispensing systems and accessories, and fume extraction systems.
OK International is committed to understanding the product needs of its customers and supplies professional grade products that are innovative, reliable, price competitive and easy to use. Through a global sales channel, OK International provides expert product support and responsive customer service, with localization to meet regional market needs.
OK International Contact
Sherilyn Hill
OK International
12151 Monarch Street
Garden Grove
CA 92841
USA
Tel: +1 650 888 2535
Email: shill@okinternational.com
www.okinternational.com
Protean Marketing Contact
Helena Osborn
Unit 1, Cutbush Court
Danehill
Lower Earley
Reading, RG6 4UW
UK
Tel: +44 1189 759880
Email: helena.osborn@protean.co.uk
www.proteanmarketing.com
