For the long-term durability of electronic components such as semiconductor chips in the automotive, aerospace and other industries
Semiconductors are particularly vulnerable to several environmental factors during storage, including moisture, oxidation, and temperature extremes. These factors can significantly impact the lifespan and functionality of semiconductors. Proper storage is crucial for applications where long-term reliability is paramount. For example, military and aerospace components might not be used for years but must still function flawlessly when needed. Similarly, maintaining a stock of spare parts ensures continued supply and avoids costly re-designs long after part obsolescence. In high-reliability industrial applications, such as industrial control systems and safety-critical equipment, reliability is essential, necessitating the proper storage of spare components.
Long-term packaging services are not only beneficial but also required in such situations to ensure quality and avoid manufacturing disruptions. This specialized service offers several benefits:
Several techniques are used to ensure semiconductors are protected from moisture and oxidation. One common and low-cost method is to use desiccants. Desiccants absorb moisture, protecting electronic components that are sensitive to moisture. Additionally, desiccants are generally inexpensive and very easy to implement. They don’t require any specialized equipment and provide continuous passive protection without the need for power or complex systems.
However, desiccants come with several limitations for extended life storage. Their capacity for moisture absorption is finite. Once saturated, they become ineffective and need to be replaced. For long-term storage, this necessitates regular monitoring and replacement to ensure continued protection. Furthermore, the efficiency of desiccants can vary depending on the packaging and environmental conditions. For these reasons, desiccants may be insufficient for longer-term storage, whereas other techniques like nitrogen purging might be better suited.
Nitrogen purging, a well-established technique in semiconductor storage, utilizes the properties of inert gas nitrogen (N₂) to create a controlled environment that significantly extends the shelf life of these sensitive components. N₂ exhibits minimal chemical reactivity with the materials used in semiconductors. By introducing a dry nitrogen atmosphere, the risk of oxidation and corrosion is significantly reduced.
The purging process involves flowing nitrogen gas through the packaging container for a set duration to ensure complete displacement of the ambient air. This creates a stable and controlled environment that minimizes the degradation processes and extends the shelf life of the semiconductors. The benefits of nitrogen purging extend beyond the creation of an inert environment. Since nitrogen is a dry gas, it also aids in controlling the moisture content within the packaging. This is crucial for preventing moisture-related issues like component malfunction caused by water vapor.
Semitron’s use of nitrogen purging with impermeable bags significantly extends the storage of your products for a period of at least 5-10 years. Please contact us, and we will be happy to advise you.
Exposure to moisture can cause corrosion and promote mold growth, both of which can damage the delicate circuitry.
Oxidation, resulting from oxygen in the air, degrades the electrical properties of the materials used in semiconductors.
Additionally, temperature extremes, whether excessive heat or cold, can accelerate these degradation processes.
Particles of different sizes and compositions in the air often have a negative impact on semiconductors.
Three steps for longer-lasting components.
While Semitron offers a high-quality long-life packaging service that utilizes techniques like nitrogen purging to minimize the risk of oxidation and moisture damage during storage, we cannot provide a warranty on the functionality of the devices beyond the manufacturer’s warranty period. This is because factors beyond storage conditions, such as component aging or inherent manufacturing variability, can influence performance.
Extended-life packaging services are also available for products provided from customer supply sources.
This varies based on your specific needs and volumes. Please be sure to indicate your timeline in your initial discussion so we can do our best to meet them.
Semitron’s unique value is its combined expertise in distribution and Testhaus services. As an authorized distributor, we offer a vast selection of parts from leading manufacturers like ADI, Microchip, and Honeywell. But we go beyond just supplying components. Our state-of-the-art facilities and Testhaus services ensure your parts function perfectly within your specific application. Throughout the entire process, you’ll benefit from our team’s in-depth knowledge and support.
Our testhouse services range from programming service, electrical component testing with specific temperature specifications, 3D-Leadscan, component marking, optical/visual analysis to identify counterfeit devices, individual mechanical modifications, climate testing and extensive tape and reel services including the possibility to design custom specific taping material.
All test house services are also available for products provided from customer supply sources.
Three steps for longer-lasting components
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