Reliability that Sticks: Thermal Adhesive Films Offer Outstanding Performance in Easy-­to-Use Format

by Art Ackerman and Jason Brandi, Henkel Electronic Materials

Abstract: When considering which thermal management materials are the right products for the task, top-­of-­mind are usually greases, pastes or pads. Are they always the best solution, though, or just the most well-­-known? For certain applications, there’s one class of materials that may be more suitable than any of the more common thermal management products. In fact, these materials may be the only solution in some cases. We're talking about thermal adhesive films (often referred to as assembly adhesive films) and their advantages are many, especially when there is a requirement for bonding large areas or complex parts together.

Though thermal adhesive films are most often found in the defense and automotive markets, the advantages they deliver can extend to any application where robust thermal and electrical performance, voide-free bond lines and controlled thicknesses are required. For certain products, thermal adhesive films are quite simply the only thermal management solution.

June 12, 2012

Solder Materials Science Gets Small as Miniaturization Challenges Old Rules

by Neil Poole, Ph.D. and Brian Toleno, Ph.D., Henkel

Abstract: As use of ultra fine-pitch devices grows and the industry moves from 0201s to 01005s and from 0.4mm CSPs to 0.3mm CSPs, prevailing Type 3 solder pastes will no  longer be sufficient to address smaller deposit volume requirements.   Simply moving  from Type 3 to Type 4, however, will not necessarily deliver the desired result either. It  is critical that the Type 4 materials are optimized for today’s miniaturization demands. 

In this instance, optimizing means tightly controlling not only the particle size but the  distribution of those particles within the material as well.  While current industry  standards tend to be a bit unclear as to allowable particle size in the upper end of the  range, the published IPC J-STD-006A is fairly liberal with the distribution range of particle sizes. But, recent testing has suggested that a tighter distribution range and a smaller upper limit particle size may prevent some problems  down the line.

Current work has focused on not only condensing the distribution and size range of the Type 4 particles, but also on producing the powder in such a way that the integrity of the surface finish is maintained, as this is also essential to lowering oxidation risk. The smaller particles of Type 4 materials make for a higher surface are to volume ratio which, in turn, introduces more opportunity for oxidation. Left uncontrolled, the oxidation can lead to a variety of performance issues including non-coalescence, poor wetting, and/or graping (more on that later), just to name a few.  New powder production technology, however, has delivered consistent, smooth surfaces even on powder spheres less than 35 microns in diameter.

Recovering Lost Profits by Improving Reverse Logistics

By Curtis Greve and Jerry Davis

Abstract: In our experiences, reverse logistics is one of the most often overlooked elements of the complete operations cycle. These experiences and observations are precisely why we commissioned this paper: we want to highlight how high-tech companies can realize near- and long-term benefits by taking control of their reverse logistics supply chain and making improvements – no matter how small.

We realize the perception that returns are a necessary evil to be avoided at all costs. Yet they present vast opportunity. Companies adept at reverse logistics treat returns as another form of inbound shipping, with processes and plans that allow them to drive top-line sales and bottom-line profits from savings. In other words, they understand that returns are always going to be a part of their business and look for every possible way to leverage reverse logistics to extract the hidden value.

Because high-tech companies have multiple opportunities for reverse logistics to impact the supply chain, they do not have to re-engineer their entire process to achieve tangible results. We’ve helped customers achieve greater sales through resale, and we’ve seen customers realize savings by reclaiming parts for their operations. While a greater investment in reverse logistics will yield more benefits, we’re confident that many companies can experience significant improvements if they take just a few of the steps outlined in this paper.

June 11, 2012

Simple Ergonomic Steps to a More Productive Workplace

by James Anderson, Lista International

Abstract: Workplace ergonomics is getting a lot of attention nationwide in response to a sharp increase in incidents of repetitive strain injuries resulting in musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Occupational diseases often mean repeated surgery, intractable pain, inability to work, time off for the affected employee, and, ultimately, higher costs for the employer.

Factors including work surfaces at the wrong height, uncomfortable chairs, shelves and bins that are too high or out of reach, and awkward hand tools, all contribute to increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders injury and may offer a negative impact on productivity.

There is a wealth of options available to adjust the workspace to meet employees’ ergonomic needs and selecting the right ones can help employees reap significant bottom line rewards. Paying attention to ergonomics means removing barriers to work productivity. Comfortable employees stay at their desks or work stations longer, and complete more work in a given shift. Employers who pay attention to these four simple steps are well on their way to gaining these rewards.

June 8, 2012