SN100C Silver-Free Solder Hits Record Demand as Silver Becomes Volatile

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Happy New Year: Premium High Purity Solder Alloys for 2026

DKL Metals Ltd wishes all our customers a very happy and prosperous New Year. We lead the market in supplying high purity solder alloys across the UK and Europe. Thank you for your continued trust and support throughout the past twelve months.

Your business helps us maintain our position as a premier manufacturer. We provide essential materials to various sectors including electronics, aerospace, and medical manufacturing. Consequently, we truly value our ongoing partnership with every client we serve.

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In this solder paste guide we help you understand types of solder paste, how to use it, and cover some of the frequently asked questions.

Solder paste has fine alloy powder in flux. It is 85-92% metal by weight. This enables precise SMT deposition on PCBs. Flux removes oxides during reflow. Powder melts into strong joints. Use stencil printing or jet printing. Tackiness holds components pre-reflow.

Types of Solder Paste

• Lead-based vs. Lead-Free: Lead-free SAC305 or SN100CV meets RoHS rules. They suit eco-friendly production. Sn63Pb37 processes easier at low temps.
• Flux Types (IPC J-STD-004): Rosin often require specific solvent clean-up. Water-soluble requires rinsing. No-clean leaves safe traces.
• Particle Sizes (IPC J-STD-005): Type 3 (25-45µm) fits standard pitches. Type 4 (20-38µm) works for fine-pitch.
• Alloy Compositions: SAC305 melts at 217-221°C. while, SN100CV P608 D4 melts at 221-225°C and it beats SAC305 in long-term mechanical strength and thermal fatigue resistance.

Step-by-Step Solder Paste Guide

1. Prepping Solder Paste and surface

1. Ensure the metal surface is properly clean and free of any dust or oils.
2. Warm paste to room temperature slowly. Avoid rapid heating.
3. Stir gently for even consistency. Check for optimal flow.

2. Applying Solder Paste

4. Use stencil printer for high volume. Or syringe for prototypes.
5. Apply precise deposits on PCB pads. Check stencil alignment.
6. Place components on tacky paste. Press lightly to secure.
7. Inspect with SPI for volume and bridging issues.

3. Heating (Reflow Soldering)

8. Load into reflow oven. Follow datasheet temperature profile.
9. Ramp slowly to liquidus point. Hold time above liquidus.
10. Cool controlled to avoid thermal shock. Forms strong joints.

4. Post-Process Clean-up

11. Inspect for defects like bridging or balling.
12. Clean water-soluble flux with DI water and drying.
13. No-clean flux usually needs no cleaning step.
14. Test electrical connections and functionality.

Solder Paste Tips

• Wear gloves and use ventilation. Follow SDS safety rules.
• Type 4 paste best for fine-pitch components under 0.5mm.
• SN100CV P608 D4 beats SAC305 in long-term strength and reliability.
• Match reflow profile exactly to paste datasheet specs.
• Seal paste jars immediately after use to prevent drying.
• Store at 0-10°C in sealed containers. Shelf life is 6-12 months cold.
• Prevent slump with good rheology.

Solder Paste guide FAQs

What is the melting point of solder paste?

SAC305: 217-221°C. SN100CV P608 D4: 221-225°C. SnPb: ~183°C.

What are the benefits of lead-free solder paste?

RoHS compliant. Less toxic. Stable for consumer electronics.

How long is solder paste shelf life?

6-12 months at 0-10°C. Seal tightly always.

How do I choose solder paste flux type?

No-clean saves cost. Water-soluble for heavy residues. Rosin balances activation.

Can solder paste dry out?

Yes from air exposure. Store sealed and cold.

What causes solder paste defects?

Slump, bad profiles, rheology mismatch. SPI catches early.

Is solder paste compatible with all reflow ovens?

Match datasheet profile. Test pause response.

How do I handle solder paste safely?

Wear gloves. Use ventilation. Follow SDS rules.

Where can I buy high-quality solder paste?

DKL Metals stocks a wide variety of high quality solder pastes, including SN100CV P608 D4. Full technical support.

Learn More!

• Wikipedia – Solder Paste
• DKL Metals – SN100CV
• IPC J-STD-005 Particle Size

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The Next Generation Lead-Free Solder Paste

DKL Metals, in conjunction with Nihon Superior, are proud to announce the launch of a revolutionary new lead-free solder paste — SN100CV P608 D4.

Built on the patented SN100CV alloy formulation, this innovative product is designed as a direct drop-in replacement for traditional SAC305 alloys. With silver prices at record highs, switching to SN100CV offers exceptional performance without the cost burden associated with silver-bearing solders.

Like the rest of the SN100 range, it is a patented product and only available from licensed distributors.

Technical Specifications

Features and Benefits of SN100CV P608 D4 Solder Paste

A Smarter, More Reliable Alternative

SN100CV P608 D4 doesn’t just lower production costs, it delivers greater reliability in demanding soldering environments. Its enhanced microstructure provides better resistance to thermal cycling and mechanical stress, ensuring durable and stable connections over time.

Now is the perfect opportunity to bring these advantages to your production line.

Reduces voiding compared to conventional products

Completely halogen-free solder paste that reduces voids, which cause critical problems in mounting. It exhibits wetting equivalent to or better than that of halogen-containing products. It contains a silver-free, high strength alloy.

Picture (Left): conventional product used (x-ray photo taken after reflow)
Picture (Right): P608 used (x-ray photo taken after reflow)

Take the next step today.

Tel: +44 (0)1506 847710
Email: sales@dklmetals.co.uk
*Click for contact page*

*Check It Out Directly From Nihon Superior*

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Babbitt metal is a soft, white alloy invented by Isaac Babbitt in 1839. It was developed for use as a bearing material in engines, turbines, and pumps. Typically, it consists of tin or lead as the main element, combined with antimony and copper. This unique composition allows Babbitt bearings to run smoothly, absorb impurities, and provide low friction performance.

Types and Composition

There are two main types of Babbitt metal: tin-based and lead-based. Tin-based alloys usually contain over 80% tin, with smaller amounts of antimony and copper. On the other hand, lead-based Babbitt contains roughly 85% lead, 10% antimony, and 5% copper. The exact composition varies depending on the manufacturer and application.

Properties and Uses

Babbitt metal offers excellent corrosion resistance and good conformability. Furthermore, it wets lubricants well. In practice, fine crystals of copper and antimony form hard spots within the alloy. Meanwhile, the softer tin or lead matrix helps the metal absorb dirt and particles. Additionally, Babbitt can bond onto steel, cast iron, or bronze bearing shells. As a result, it extends the life of engines and machinery by minimizing wear and galling—even if lubrication breaks down temporarily.

Lead-Containing Babbitts

Lead-based Babbitt alloys remain widely used in heavy industrial machinery where moderate speeds and loads are common. Historically, they have been particularly valued in railroad applications, including axle bearings in older railway cars. Lead Babbitts are favoured for their toughness and resistance to cracking, especially when operating in environments exposed to dirt, gravel, or contaminants. They also find use in agricultural equipment, cement machinery, steel mills, conveyors, and elevators—applications where cost-effective, durable plain bearings are essential.

Lead-Free Babbitts

Tin-based or lead-free Babbitt alloys are preferred where higher shaft speeds, precision, and hygiene standards matter. Modern automotive engines use tin-based Babbitts in plain bearings, such as those in connecting rods and crankshafts, due to their excellent fatigue resistance and ability to withstand cyclic loading. These alloys also serve in high-speed industrial equipment and food processing machinery, offering the dual benefits of being lead-free and providing long-lasting lubrication and low friction performance.

Why Babbitt Metal is Used

The alloy’s outstanding load-carrying capability, ease of repair, and resistance to welding and friction make it a top choice for heavy industrial bearings. Notably, tin-based Babbitt is especially popular in environments requiring food safety or higher speeds. In contrast, lead-based variants are more suitable for applications where cost and moderate speed matter more.

Babbitt and White Metal: Terminology Evolution

While the term “Babbitt” originates from Isaac Babbitt’s invention in 1839, it has gradually become less common in modern industry. Today, these alloys are most often referred to as white metal. This broader term covers a family of silver-white alloys based primarily on tin or lead combined with antimony and copper.

Although “white metal” can include other similar alloys, it remains closely linked to the properties and uses of classic Babbitt metal. The shift reflects evolving industrial standards and the expanded applications of these low-friction, durable bearing metals in modern machinery.

Summary

In summary, Babbitt metal—now often called white metal—remains a fundamental material for protecting moving parts in mechanical systems. Its excellent low-friction performance and durability continue to support the longevity of equipment ranging from automotive engines to heavy industrial machinery. Despite advancements in bearing technology, white metal alloys hold a unique place in engineering due to their proven reliability over nearly two centuries.

Enquire Now

Interested in learning more about white metal alloys and how they can enhance your machinery’s performance? Visit our White Metal page for full details, specifications, and expert advice.

Our team is ready to help with any questions or custom requirements, get in touch today!

Read more here:-

Wikipedia – Babbitt Metal
Wikipedia – Isaac Babbitt
BSI Group – BS 3332:1987
DKL Metals – BS 3332:1987 Range

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Soldering relies on one essential material: soldering flux. Whether you fix broken wires, assemble electronics, or create intricate jewellery, understanding flux is key. You’ve probably seen flux in your soldering process, but do you know what it does and why it matters? Let’s take a closer look at this often-overlooked component.

What is Soldering Flux?

Soldering flux is a chemical compound that helps the solder to flow smoothly and adhere to the surfaces being joined. It plays a crucial role in strengthening the connection between materials and making it more reliable. Without flux, solder can’t bond properly to metal, which leads to weak joints and possible circuit failures.

Flux typically comes in the form of a gel, paste, or liquid, and it is used on metal parts that will be soldered together, such as copper wires or circuit board components.

How Does Flux Help in Soldering?

1. Prevents Oxidation Oxidation forms when metal meets air, creating oxides that stop solder from sticking well. Flux breaks down these oxides and keeps metal from oxidizing during soldering.
2. Improves Wetting of the Solder When you apply solder to a joint, the goal is for it to flow smoothly across the surfaces and create a strong bond. However, metal surfaces can often be a little resistant to solder adhesion. Flux improves the “wetting” properties of the metal, meaning the solder will spread and bond more effectively. This is especially important for creating reliable connections on delicate components like PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards).
3. Cleans the Surface In addition to preventing oxidation, flux helps clean the metal surfaces by removing dirt, grease, and other contaminants. These contaminants can create a barrier that stops the solder from sticking, leading to weak connections. Flux effectively “cleans” the surfaces, ensuring a solid bond.
4. Reduces Surface Tension Surface tension can cause solder to bead, rather than spread evenly. Flux lowers tension so solder flows smoothly, making precise joints easier. This is especially important for precision work, such as soldering small, intricate parts.
5. Ensures Better Heat Transfer For the solder to melt properly and form a good joint, you need to apply heat evenly to the surfaces you join. Flux acts as a heat conductor, helping you transfer heat more efficiently. It also spreads the heat evenly across the components, reducing the chance of overheating and damage to sensitive parts.

Types of Soldering Flux

There are several types of flux, each suited for different applications. Here are the most common types you’ll encounter:

1. Rosin Flux Rosin flux is one of the most commonly used flux types, particularly for electronics. It’s derived from pine sap and works well with most metals. Rosin flux is available in different grades (such as “rosin activated” or “no-clean”) and is generally safe to use, as it’s non-corrosive and leaves minimal residue.
2. Acid Flux Acid flux is used primarily for soldering metals that have a higher tendency to oxidize, like brass or steel. However, acid flux is much more corrosive and can damage electronic components if not cleaned off thoroughly after soldering.
3. Water-Soluble Flux As the name suggests, water-soluble flux can be easily cleaned up with water. It’s highly effective for cleaning and leaves no residue once removed. However, it requires more care during cleaning, as leftover flux can lead to corrosion if not properly washed off.
4. No-Clean Flux No-clean flux is ideal for situations where cleaning the flux residue is either impractical or unnecessary. It leaves behind minimal residue, which is generally safe for most electronic components, and does not need to be cleaned off after soldering.

How to Use Flux in Soldering

Using flux correctly is easy once you understand the basics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using soldering flux:

1. Prepare the Surface: Start by cleaning the parts you’re going to solder. Ensure the metal is free from dirt, grease, or any oxidation.
2. Apply the Flux: Using a brush or syringe, apply a thin layer of flux to the metal surfaces that you intend to solder. You don’t need a lot, just enough to cover the area where the solder will be applied.
3. Heat the Joint: Heat the joint with a soldering iron until it’s hot enough to melt the solder. The flux will start to work by preventing oxidation and allowing the solder to flow smoothly.
4. Apply the Solder: Once the joint is heated, apply the solder. The flux will help the solder to flow evenly and create a strong bond. If necessary, you can add more flux to ensure smooth flow.
5. Clean Up: After soldering, especially with acid or water-soluble flux, make sure to clean the area to remove any excess flux residue. This is especially important for long-term durability and reliability.

Conclusion

Soldering flux is an essential tool in the soldering process. Whether you’re working on electronics, jewellery, or plumbing, flux ensures that your soldering job is smooth, efficient, and reliable. It prevents oxidation, enhances the flow of solder, cleans surfaces, and improves heat transfer. By understanding and using flux properly, you’ll be able to create strong, durable solder joints every time.

So next time you’re soldering, don’t forget about flux—it’s your secret weapon to achieving the perfect connection!

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Learn More!

Wikipedia – Flux
DKL Metals – Clearflow 7000

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Soldering is a critical step in electronics assembly and repair. It involves melting filler metal (solder) to join electrical components. The width or diameter of the wire directly affects the quality and efficiency of the process. Choosing the correct wire size ensures reliable connections and prevents issues such as cold joints, bridging, or overheating. This article explains how solder wire width influences different aspects of soldering.

   1. Heat Control and Melting Time

The width of solder wire controls how much solder reaches the joint. Thicker wire carries more material and usually needs more heat to melt. As a result, thicker wire takes longer to reach melting temperature, which can overheat nearby components. Prolonged heat exposure risks damage, especially in sensitive surface-mount devices (SMDs). Thinner solder wire melts faster with less heat, reducing the chance of thermal damage.

   2. Soldering Precision

Precision is vital when working with small components like microchips or fine-pitch devices. Thin solder wire allows greater control and more accurate application. It is ideal when the joint must remain small or when the risk of solder bridging between pads is high. Thicker wires suit larger components or through-hole joints but often leave excess solder that is harder to manage. Oversized joints can cause short circuits or weak connections.

   3. Joint Strength and Reliability

Joint strength depends partly on the amount of solder used. A reliable joint needs just enough material without excess. Thicker solder wire provides more material for strong joints, but using too much leaves excess flux residue. Over time this can cause corrosion or shorts. Thin wires improve control, making it easier to apply only the necessary solder. This ensures a strong, reliable joint without waste.

   4. Application Method and Speed

Thicker solder wires work well for fast soldering jobs. They are effective when joining large components or through-hole leads because they can deposit more material quickly. However, they can be difficult to use on small or fine-pitch parts, often causing bridging between pins. Thin solder wires are better for precision tasks like soldering fine-pitch integrated circuits. They allow careful control at a slower pace, helping avoid common defects.

   5. Solder Wire Cost vs Material Usage

Solder wire thickness affects both material use and overall costs. Thicker wire consumes more material per length, making it more expensive. It can also lead to waste if excess solder is applied. Thinner wire provides a more economical option for precision work and smaller jobs. Still, if the wire is too thin for large components, soldering may take longer and require rework to achieve a strong connection.

Conclusion

Solder wire width plays a major role in the outcome of soldering. It influences heat management, precision, joint strength, speed, and cost. When choosing solder wire, consider component size, connection type, and the precision required. Understanding these factors helps technicians and hobbyists pick the right wire for strong, reliable, and efficient results.

Learn More!

Wikipedia – Soldering
Wikihow – How to solder
DKL Metals – A fine tune guide

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As we step into the new year, all of us at DKL Metals would like to extend our heartfelt wishes for a prosperous and successful year ahead. Your continued trust and partnership have been the cornerstone of our success, and we’re incredibly grateful for your support.

To ensure you’re ready for the year ahead, now’s the perfect time to place your stock orders. Whether you’re looking for a specific product or need assistance with a service, our team is here to help. Give us a call at 01506 847 710, and we’ll get everything set up for you.

If you’ve had a great experience with us, we’d truly appreciate your feedback. A 5-star review on our Google page would mean the world to us!

Don’t forget to check out our news page throughout 2025 for the latest updates, product insights, and DKL Metals announcements.

Here’s to a fantastic year.

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Technological Advancements in Solder

This year has seen a growing demand for high-performance solder alloys, particularly in sectors like renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs). Innovations in formulations have aimed to improve durability, electrical conductivity, and heat resistance to meet the needs of modern applications.

One standout development has been the increased adoption of low-temperature solders. These alloys not only reduce energy consumption during manufacturing but also minimise thermal stress on delicate components, making them ideal for next-generation electronic devices.

In addition, lead-free solder continues to dominate the market due to evolving environmental regulations. 2024 saw manufacturers pushing the boundaries of tin-based alloys to match or even surpass the performance of traditional leaded solder.

Sustainability and Circularity

Sustainability remains a significant focus across industries, and solder is no exception. Recycling and reclaiming solder from used electronics have become more efficient, with new processes introduced to improve yield and quality.

This trend aligns with the broader movement toward a circular economy, reducing waste and dependence on virgin materials. DKL Metals has proudly supported initiatives to create solder products that align with environmental priorities without compromising performance.

Looking Ahead to 2025

For DKL Metals, staying ahead means maintaining our commitment to quality, adaptability, and sustainability. We look forward to building on this year’s progress and helping our customers achieve their goals with solder solutions tailored to their needs.

Conclusion

2024 has been a year of innovation, sustainability, and resilience for the solder industry. At DKL Metals, we’re proud to play our part in driving the industry forward, delivering products that meet the demands of today while paving the way for a brighter, greener future.

Whether you’re looking for expert advice or premium-quality solder alloys, DKL Metals is here to help. Get in touch with our team to learn more about our solutions and how we can support your business in 2025 and beyond.

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