Kruger’s presentation focused on electronic components—the reflow process and key material properties for success. As the integration of electronics into automotive continues, compact design becomes more important, and to ensure safe and reliable operating during the vehicle’s lifetime, several requirements must be met.
The example application discussed was an electronic control unit (ECU) for electric power steering. For this specific application, ForTii T11, PPA-GF30 FR(40) was utilized in components such as lead frames and connectors. It is 30% glass reinforced, PA4T, electro-friendly, halogen free, red phosphorous free, and certified V-0 at 0.2mm.
Kruger spoke about the aspects of selecting the proper materials; industry standards that must be met; reflow soldering process; and thermal, mechanical and electrical properties.
At the beginning of the session, Kruger pointed out that the design of the ECU is very compact, and electronics are being squeezed into the smallest packaging space possible. “When working with compact designs, components like lead frames and connectors suitable to the reflow soldering process are needed,” said Kruger.