Digital Control Systems, Inc. meets the European Union's RoHS Directive

The European Union's Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS) bans the use of cadmium, hexavalent chromium, lead, mercury, PBBs (polybrominated biphenyls), and PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) in electronic product and components.  This policy went into effect in July 2006.  Due to environmental concerns, the need for lead-free solutions in electronic components and systems has received considerable attention within the semiconductor and electronics industries.

Digital Control Systems, Inc. (DCS) and many of our customers are affected by this legislation, in particular as it relates to lead in soldering matierals.  This legislation is similar to the Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) elimination requirements but the impact of lead free solders is much wider than the effects caused by CFC elimination. Lead is a major constituent in traditional tin-lead solders. 

Material compatibility issues are the primary concern with moving to lead-free components and solders.  Certain alloys, when used on a component or board coated with lead-tin solder, can form intermetallics, which will reduce the resulting solder joints mechanical integrity.  Alternative lead-free solder alloys are being developed, but their introduction into electronics manufacturing has been slow due to the major changes to current manufacturing processes, electronic components, and inspection requirements. 

Lead-free solder alloys generally require higher temperatures, up to 260°C, as opposed to 215°C, to insure optimal solder joints, which can affect the reliability of boards and components.  DCS has focused its efforts on sourcing, testing and qualifying lead free solders and components. 

While the industry strives to create lead-free alternatives that are equally durable, some applications (i.e. certain medical equipment, etc.) is exempt from complaince with the RoHS Directive. In these cases, the well-established performance of lead solder may be considered critical, and lead-based solder may be specifically requested. Generally speaking, though, DCS has successfully made the transition to RoHS-compliant materials and processes.

DCS is closely monitoring the ongoing legislation and implementation of RoHS-style standards across various industries and locations. 

Digital Control Systems, Inc. is primarily dedicated to ensuring our compliance and the compliance of our customers and partners.  DCS is a green business, and we are committed to providing the most environmentally responsible products possible.

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Digital Control Systems, Inc. manufacturers robust parametric controls and gas sensors for the Laboratory, HVAC, Greenhouse and Industrial marketplaces worldwide.  Our product portfolio includes the AirSense™ line of CO2 Monitors, the Multistat™ Temperature Controls, and Servomax™ Speed Controls.  Digital Control Systems, Inc is committed to your success.  

Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS)

Read Digital Control Systems' statement on the European Union's Directive for the Restriction on the use of certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS). Click here