Finishing Services

A surface finish can be either organic or metallic in nature. Comparing both types and all available options can quickly demonstrate the relative benefits or drawbacks. Typically, the decisive factors when it comes to selecting the most suitable finish is the end application, the assembly process and the design of the PCB itself. Below you can find a brief summary of the most common finishes, however for further or more detailed information, please Contact Us and we will be more than happy to answer any of your questions.

LF HASL – Lead Free hot air solder level
Typical thickness 1 – 40um. Shelf life: 12 months

The Hot Air Solder Leveling (HASL) process has been the preferred coating process utilised by the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Industry for the past 20 years. With the new regulations on the elimination of lead from solder, the HASL process has not lost its popularity or feasibility and still remains the preferred coating of PCB manufacturers. The patented SN100CL, Sn-Cu-Ni alloy, has been specially developed to offer a high quality lead free alloy for use in the HASL process.

1. Excellent solderability
2. Relatively inexpensive
3. Allows large processing window
4. Multiple thermal excursions

1. Difference in thickness / topography between large and small pads
2. High processing temperature – 260-270 degrees C
3. Not suited for < 20mil pitch SMD & BGA
4. Bridging on fine pitch