[Elecraft] ROHS COMPLIANT?

[Dave Sergeant]

On 4 Sep 2006 at 4:02, Nick Waterman wrote:

> 
> After trying lead-based and lead-free solder on some of the mini-kits, I
> went leaded for my K2 in the end. I knew it was going to be a whole lot
> easier especially if I ever had to rework anything... but this comment
> from Eric really stunned me:
> 
> Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft wrote:
> > We -strongly- recommend continuing to use regular lead based solder to
> > build our kits. Kester 44, and other 63/37, 60/40 lead/tin mix solders
> > are not going away in the US or in Eu and work much better for soldering
> > both RoHS and non-RoHS tinned parts. Removal of non-lead solder is
> > difficult at best for most builders, potentially damaging PC boards and
> > components, and thats why our warranty prohibits its usage.

I was going to comment about this myself.

Elecraft have gone to great effort to supply their new kits with 
components which are ROHS compliant andnow these new kits will come 
with a revised warranty which prohibits use of lead free solder in 
construction. Total contradiction.

The fact remains that in Europe the law now requires such equipment 
to be assembled with lead free. There may be exemptions for kits, but 
in my reading of the regulations this is not that clear. USA and 
other assemblers who are currently not subject to ROHS regulations 
obviously can use leaded solder, but in Europe we should be given the 
option to use lead free if we wish to meet those requirements and 
work within the law. If rework with lead free is a problem then 
Elecraft must solve them rather than effectively wiping their hands 
of it.

Perhaps Eric or Wayne will comment??

73 Dave G3YMC

http://www.davesergeant.com