Method for rapid testing of thermo-mechanical characteristics of solder joints

The creep behavior of alternative soft solder alloys is not, as a rule, wel l known. This characteristic is however very important for the prediction o f a joint's long-term reliability. Conventional test methods are often impr actical, slow and deliver only qualitative results. The new testing method presented is able to provide very fast quantitative Values of thermo-mechan ical characteristics. This paper shows latest results, comparison with stan dard testing, investigation of high temperature applications and new fields of use. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.