Due diligence programs are used extensively to prove that electronic equipment meets the European restricted materials standards (commonly referred to RoHS). These programs commonly involve the complete documentation of the RoHS status of each component within the electronic equipment. However, the program can be made much more effective though the use of screening (hot link) by handheld XRF equipment such as
the X-MET.
In the “RoHS Enforcement Guidance Document” published by the UK Department of Trade and Industry, they suggest that “As a first step the producer … may choose a screening tool such as EDXRF analysis.” When used in this way, the EDXRF is simply used to confirm the presence or absence of the restricted materials. The MTR for each component can be very quickly confirmed by simply measuring the incoming parts for confirmation of the MTR. That is to confirm that the products are lead free for example. In most cases when screening incoming materials it is not necessary to obtain an exact assay of the chemical composition of the part – rather it is simply necessary to confirm the absence of the restricted materials. This can be achieved very quickly and easily using an X-MET5000 or X-MET5100.
Due Diligence:
- Includes a well documented review of all components within a product to prove they are RoHS compliant
- Notification of all suppliers that RoHS compliant material is required
This is an ongoing process
- Set-up audit programs to check material vs. the MTR’s; many MTR’s have been found to be incorrect
- XRF screening added to incoming material inspection adds a level of certainty to the process