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Reflow Soldering Defects - Plastic Softening 

The SOT23s in Figure 1 became deformed when the peak temperature of the device was exceeded. Although this device is generally well specified, some suppliers use plastic materials that will not stand higher rework temperatures. At standard reflow temperature there should not be a problem. Always read the supplier's guidelines and avoid multiple sourcing of parts.

Figure 1: Deformed SOT23 components.


Reflow Soldering Defects:

Plastic Softening
© 2007 Trafalgar Publications
Text and photos courtesy of Bob Willis