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Lead Free Statement

1st June 2004

In response to impending European legislation, Harwin Plc is pleased to announce the introduction of Lead Free Plating finishes to its manufacturing capabilities. The “Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment” and “Removal of Hazardous Substances” directives that are due to come in to effect in July 2006, require electronics assemblies to be free of Lead normally used within soldering processes.

Over the last 50 years, Lead has been used to improve solderability and joint integrity but is now coming under scrutiny as a potential pollutant in landfill sites. Despite evidence collected over the years that indicates Lead from electronics waste has a very minimal impact, the movement to ban it from these goods has reached a point of no return. Particular focus is being made on consumer goods and similar items that are typically disposed of in land fill at the end of their useful life.

Whilst a number of industries are exempt from this legislation in the medium term, the majority of goods must comply or resale will be illegal. There is also additional legislation covering the Automotive industry which is already in effect. Any company supplying to end users in Europe must comply with these directives to be able to continue to sell their goods. Harwin Plc is committed to meeting these requirements and supporting our customers in this transition.

Harwin Plc Status and Intentions

Over the last twenty years, Harwin Plc have reduced the Lead content of it’s plating finishes from a typical 60/40 Tin Lead mix to a nominal 90/10 Tin Lead mix in line with industry standards. Having seen the early signs of the need to remove Lead, Harwin have worked towards alternative finishes that will meet industry requirements without compromising product performance. Consideration has been given to the various options available with the final choice being a Pure Tin finish. It has been seen that this offers the best balance within a number of different soldering processes. All plating undercoat specifications remain the same.

Harwin Plc is now currently in the process of re-engineering our manufacturing facilities to offer the Lead free, Pure Tin finishes. Work is complete on our Barrel plating lines (loose piece parts) and is well under way on our Reel to Reel plating lines. It is planned that this will be completed in quarter four of 2004, with product validation tests taking place immediately the lines are ready. By Jan 2005, Harwin Plc expects to be able to supply the majority of our products in Lead Free formats. As the range of products offered is extensive, it is planned that product families will be swapped over family by family to the new specifications.

For more specific information on a particular part number, please contact you local Sales representative who will pass on your request to the Harwin Lead Free Team or contact Harwin directly at leadfree@harwin.co.uk Alternatively, visit the Harwin website at www.harwin.com for product specific updates.