Can leaded BGA chips be reflow soldered with lead-free process?

I know that using leaded process for lead-free BGA chips is not acceptable, because the solder balls of the BGA will not melt and the joint will be unreliable. But now BGA chip is only available in lead-free balls. is it ok to solder leaded BGA chips with a lead-free (thus, higher temperature) process?

Option 1: Talk to your assembler and see if you could use two different temperature processes.

  • Do the Lead-free profile first (that goes to a higher temperature)
  • Then, after those parts are done, solder the leaded parts on with a leaded temperature profile.

This satisfies the requirements of both. (you don’t need to worry about stenciling as BGA’s have solder balls)

Option 2 

Install lead-free BGA’s with an IR rework station (which also supports temperature profiles). It is more difficult but possible.

Read More: Understanding Different Types of BGA Packages

#PCB Assembly

Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.
Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

What Others Are Asking

What is an average CPH speed for hand SMD assembly?

What would be the average speed of assembling surface mount components on to a PCB for an experienced person? Assuming they have desk that is correctly set up (pick and place station) and the PCB has solder paste already applied.

How does a PCB Prototype look like?

It is the first time I place a prototype order to a manufacturer for my research. And I want to know how a common prototype looks like.

Read Detailed Advice From Blog Articles

Scroll to Top