Some confusion about RoHS lead-free soldering tips

In a post to one of the public electronics manufacturing e-mail forums, one engineer writes:

We are currently using Weller WTCP 50 and WTCP 51 solder stations and I want to continue using these for our RoHS compliant production lines. I therefore need to ensure that our boards are not contaminated by the solder tips. I took some unused solder tips and had them tested, and found that they contain levels of lead well in excess of the RoHS limit.

Talking to ((their supplier)), I understand they have been advised by their solder station suppliers that solder tips do not fall under the RoHS directive, as they do not form part of an electronic product. They advise tinning the tip to act as a suitable barrier against lead leaching into the solder joint. This all sounds a bit risky.

We agree, it doesn't sound right, does it? Why run the risk of adding any lead to your lead-free process?

All our Plato® Soldering and Desoldering tips manufactured since January 2004 are lead-free in accordance with EU Directive 2002/95 EC. These products may be used in an electronics manufacturing process which produces RoHS compliant products. Please let us know if you want to try some.

DYMAX on the move

Key sales partner DYMAX is moving in the autumn. We have been selling their range of UV curing adhesives & coatings, as well as UV curing equipment, for many years, and are their leading European distributor.

Well, success and growth has meant that they need new, bigger premises. They are letting everyone know well in advance, and have made detailed and careful plans to both cope with the move, and to continue satisfy their customers to their usual exacting levels during the move. There is a letter describing these plans right on the front of their web site.

Congratulations on the new building!