Electroplating Tin Lead

Tin-Lead Electroplating Services For Manufacturers

Tin-Lead electroplating, sometimes called “Solder Plate”, is widely used for functional soldering applications. Consisting of a mixture of tin and lead, Solder Plate deposit is most commonly used in electronics applications where solderability is a requirement, though there are commercial uses in a wide variety of additional industries. Tin-Lead is plated in a wide variety of common formulations and custom mixes are available, as well.

Have Questions? We're Happy to Help.

Request Information

1-888-275-0880

Looking for Specs?

Get Plating Specs

Tin-Lead Electroplating Considerations

For electronic components use only parts with a matte or flow brightened finish
The ratio of Tin and Lead in a given composite will affect both hardness and the melting point of the final plating
For example, abrasion resistance increases with increased tin in the composite
For example, the melting point for Tin-Lead 60/40 ~374F (190C) and for 90/10 is ~421F (217C)
The lead-free electronic manufacturing directives mandated by the European Union have had a far reaching and ongoing impact on the use of Tin-Lead. AOTCO stands ready to work with you to define your options and advise which will be most suitable for the end goal for your part.

Frequently Asked Questions

About

Often referred to as "Solder Plate," Tin-Lead electroplating is a staple in the realm of functional soldering. It is primarily sought after in the electronics sector for its exceptional solderability. However, its utility spans across numerous industries. Tin-Lead is offered in an array of formulations.

Benefits Of Tin-Lead Electroplating

Excellent solderability
Corrosion protection
Oxidation resistance
Abrasion resistance
Etch resistance
Superior at preventing “whisker” formation compared to 100% pure Tin
The growth of tin whiskers can cause short circuit electronic components by bridging conductor paths

Tin-Lead Plating Industry Uses

Electronics
Defense
Aerospace
Battery / Power Storage
Fire Protection

Tin-Lead Plating Physical Properties

Coating Thickness:

Unless otherwise specified .0003 to .0005 inches

Aesthetic Appearance:

Silvery gray
Finishes - Either matte or bright luster
- If a brighter finish is called for we typically suggest either a final re-flowing of Tin-Lead or even a coating of Bright Tin

Substrates

Ferrous: All ferrous alloys including many Steel alloys
Cuprous: Pure Copper and all cuprous alloys including Copper Molybdenum, Copper Beryllium (BeCu), Copper Tellurium (TeCu), Brass & more
All Aluminum Alloys Including Wrought, Cast and Proprietary Alloys (MIC-6)
Exotics & Others: Inconel, Kovar, Monel, Tellurium, Magnesium, Nickel, Lead & more

Underplates

Copper
Electrolytic Nickel
Electroless Nickel
Silver
Tin
Lead

Pre-Treatments Available

Mechanical Cleaning
Custom Masking
Chemical Films

Post-Treatments Available

Laser Marking
Engraving
Chemical Films
Hydrogen Embrittlement Stress Relief

Tin-Lead Types & Grades

10-90
60/40
90/10
95/5
93/7
Custom mixes

Tin-Lead Plating Mil Specs & Certifications

ASTM B579
AMS-P-81728
MIL-P-81728 --- NADCAP Approved, ROHS Compliant
MIS-41177
Various company specifications

Looking for Specs?

Learn more about the specifications AOTCO offers, including NADCAP-accredited and RoHS-compliant ones.

Get Plating Specs

Have Questions?
We're Happy to Help.

Request Information

1-888-275-0880

looking for Plating Specifications?

Tin-Lead Electroplating