Validated High Speed Pull and Shear Test Methodologies to Evaluate Pb-Free BGA Mechanical Strength

Abstract

The conversion to lead free Ball Grid Array (BGA) packages has raised several new assembly and reliability issues. Lead-free solder joints are generally stiffer than tin-lead solder joints, and mechanically induced failures have become more prevalent in lead-free solder assemblies. Traditionally, assembly bend and shock testing is performed to evaluate mechanical assembly reliability. However, bend and shock tests are expensive, cumbersome and not feasible for evaluating lot-to-lot variations in mechanical strength. Consequently, there is a need for a validated, component level test method that can be used as an accurate indicator of assembly level mechanical strength. Several publications have been written to evaluate the efficacy of high speed pull and shear testing as a viable reliability indicator [1 – 10]. In this study, a comprehensive Gauge R&R study was performed to evaluate the accuracy of the test equipment, including high speed video calibration. Then, test studies were performed to compare the accuracy of the results, spread across different package constructions, solder metallurgies, ball pitch and surface finish. In addition, the effect of parameters like multiple reflows and aging on specific metallurgies and surface finishes was studied. The results were generated over more than 2000 test runs. Finally, the study rank orders all critical test parameters and articulates what precise steps can be taken to generate relevant data for standard and custom devices during early evaluation stages and during high volume manufacturing.