Applied Technical Services (ATS) conducts solder failure analysis to identify the origin of solder joint failures.
Soldering uses a filler metal to join two metal components, forming a strong electrical and physical bond. Properly soldered joints resist mechanical stress and ensure effective electrical conductivity. When a joint fails, solder failure analysis can determine the root cause, supporting process improvements and corrective actions.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Solder Joint Failure?
Soldering failures can occur during manufacturing or service. Some result from movement, such as vibrations, while others stem from process deviations.
Common solder failures include:
- Common solder failures can include:
- Dry Joints (improper wetting)
- Thermal Fatigue or Mechanical Overload
- Voids and Porosity
- Surface Contamination
- Degradation or Corrosion
- Process Control Variation (too much/little solder, soldering temperature, etc.)
- Lifted pads
What Techniques are Used in Solder Failure Analysis?
Qualified metallurgy laboratories use several methods to determine the cause of failure. We assess both in-service and manufacturing failures to understand the full scope and mechanism of breakdown.
ATS failure analysis labs use methods for solder failure analysis, including but not limited to:
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDS
- Visual Inspection
- Cross-Sectioning and Metallography
- Chemical Analysis
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning
- Microhardness Testing
- X-ray Radiography
Collaborating with ATS for Failure Analysis
As a leader among testing, inspection, calibration, and consulting (TICC) companies, ATS provides comprehensive failure analysis services. Our facilities operate in accordance with our ISO 9001:2015-registered quality management system. We also hold several ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditations, ensuring we can meet even the most stringent testing and inspection requirements.
In addition to solder materials, we perform failure analysis on a range of other materials and components, including:
- Brazings and Welds
- Coatings and Paint
- Piping, Pumps, and Heat Exchangers
- Metals and Polymers
- Components and Parts
- Concrete
Whether you require solder or concrete failure analysis, ATS helps you identify the cause of malfunction, degradation, or detachment in your materials or components.
Contact Us
To determine the root cause of a solder failure, contact ATS by calling +1 (888) 287-5227 or submitting our web form.
