Exposure Monitoring
Cumulative exposure time for moisture-sensitive components outside of sealed storage must be documented to prevent soldering defects. This continuous recording process is floor life tracking, which monitors the duration that parts spend in ambient factory air. It ensures that components do not absorb excess moisture before being soldered.
The recorded time determines whether parts must be baked or can be assembled.
Moisture Risk
Exposure to room air allows polymer packages to absorb water vapor from the ambient environment. If this moisture is not recorded, the parts can suffer from internal delamination during high-temperature reflow. Tracking this exposure prevents the assembly of compromised packages.
The tracking begins the moment the moisture-barrier bag is opened.
Process Protocol
Software systems scan barcodes on reels and trays to log when parts enter and exit dry storage cabinets. When a tray is removed for assembly, the tracking system automatically starts a countdown timer. If the parts are returned to a nitrogen-purged cabinet, the timer is paused or reset.
This automation reduces the human errors associated with manual log sheets.
Database Maintenance
Centralized software manages the exposure data for all active reels on the production floor. The database maintains accurate logs of every part’s history and remaining usable exposure time. This database ensures that expired parts are flagged before they can be loaded onto pick-and-place machines.
It prevents the assembly of wet parts and protects the final product quality. Software configurations must be audited periodically to verify that exposure calculations align with current factory temperatures.
