Long-Term Packaging for Electronic Components
For the longevity of semiconductor chips
Long-Term Packaging Service for Electronic Components
Semiconductors are particularly vulnerable to various environmental factors such as humidity, oxidation and extreme temperatures during storage. These factors can significantly impair the lifespan and functionality of semiconductor chips.
Proper storage is therefore critical for applications where long-term reliability is of paramount importance. Military and aerospace components are often not needed for years, but must function flawlessly when required. Similarly, storing spare parts ensures a continuous supply and avoids costly redevelopment long after component obsolescence. In high-reliability industrial applications, such as industrial control systems and safety-critical devices, reliability is essential, making proper storage of spare components necessary.
These Advantages Are Offered by Long-Term Packaging for Electronic Components
Our long-term packaging service is not only beneficial in such situations, but also necessary to ensure quality and avoid production interruptions. This specialized service offers several advantages:
Preservation of functionality
Long-term packaging protects ICs from environmental factors that could impair their performance over time, ensuring they remain functional when needed.
Inventory management
For spare parts, prototypes or safety stock, long-term packaging enables secure storage of ICs over extended periods without compromising their integrity.
Cost savings
By preventing degradation during storage, this service minimizes the risk of components becoming unusable and having to be disposed of.
Regulatory compliance
Certain industries, such as aerospace or defense, have strict regulations regarding the storage and handling of electronic components. Long-term packaging helps ensure compliance with these regulations.
Obsolescence management
The design and service life of long-lasting products can be further extended by preserving obsolete products with long-term packaging options. Obsolete ICs are often valuable for future repairs or maintenance. Proper long-term packaging secures these components for potential future use.
Risks with Long-Term Packaging Based on Desiccants
Several techniques are applied to protect electronic components from moisture and oxidation. A common and cost-effective method is the use of desiccants.
Desiccants absorb moisture and protect electronic components that are sensitive to humidity. They are also generally inexpensive and very easy to implement, require no special equipment and provide continuous passive protection without the need for power or complex systems.
However, desiccants have several limitations for long-term storage. Their moisture absorption capacity is limited. Once they are saturated, they become ineffective and must be replaced. For long-term storage, this requires regular monitoring and replacement to ensure continuous protection. In addition, the efficiency of desiccants can vary depending on packaging and environmental conditions. For these reasons, desiccants may be insufficient for long-term storage, while other techniques such as nitrogen purging may be more suitable.
Long-Term Packaging for Electronic Components with Nitrogen
Nitrogen purging, an established technique in semiconductor storage, utilizes the properties of the 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 passing nitrogen gas through the packaging container for a specified duration to ensure complete displacement of ambient air. This creates a stable and controlled environment that minimizes degradation processes and extends the shelf life of semiconductors. The benefits of nitrogen purging go beyond creating an inert environment. Since nitrogen is a dry gas, it also helps control moisture content within the packaging. This is critical to prevent moisture-related problems such as component malfunctions due to water vapor.
SEMITRON’s use of nitrogen purging with impermeable bags significantly extends the storage time of your products, at least for a period of 5-10 years. Please contact us and we will be happy to advise you.
Would You Like to Safely Package Electronic Components for an Extended Period?
Three steps for longer-lasting components.
What Are Harmful Environmental Factors and How Do They Affect Components
Moisture
Moisture can cause corrosion and promote mold formation, which can damage sensitive circuits.
Oxygen
Oxidation by oxygen in the air degrades the electrical properties of the materials used in semiconductors
Temperatures
Extreme temperatures, whether heat or cold, can accelerate these degradation processes.
Pollutants in ambient air
Particles of different sizes and compositions in the air often have a negative impact on semiconductors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Term Packaging for Electronic Components
Does your long-term packaging service provide a guarantee on the functionality of the electronic components?
SEMITRON’s high-quality long-term packaging service using nitrogen purging minimizes the risk of oxidation and moisture damage during storage. However, we cannot provide a guarantee on the functionality of devices beyond the manufacturer’s warranty. This is because factors beyond storage conditions, such as component aging or inherent manufacturing variability, can affect performance.
Do you only support long-term packaging services for electronic components sold through your distribution network?
Long-term packaging services are also available for products from customer supply sources.
How long does the typical service for long-term packaging take?
This varies depending on your specific needs and quantities. Please specify your timeframe in your initial inquiry so we can do our best to meet it.
More Than Just Long Term Packaging
SEMITRON’s unique value lies in the combined expertise in distribution and test house services. As an authorized distributor, we offer a wide range of components from leading manufacturers. But we don’t just deliver components. Our state-of-the-art facilities and test house services ensure that your components function perfectly in your specific application. Throughout the entire process, you benefit from the comprehensive knowledge and support of our team.
Our test house services include programming services, electrical component testing with specific temperature specifications, 3D lead scan, component marking, optical/visual analysis for identifying counterfeit devices, custom mechanical modifications, environmental testing and comprehensive tape-and-reel services, including the ability to design custom packaging material.
All test house services are also available for products from customer supply sources.
Would You Like to Safely Package Electronic Components for an Extended Period?
Three steps for longer-lasting components
Request initial consultation
Analysis of your requirements
Quote & execution
