On January 1, 2015, nine months from APEX 2014, the production and use restrictions on HCFC-225 will be in effect throughout the United States. This phase out is encompassing in scope. This phase out will have significant technical, performance, and economic implications for the electronics industry. The regulatory situation remains fluid. A number of alternative solvents have been or are in the process of being developed. We discuss the options for assemblers and component manufacturers.
The time to plan is NOW! The deadline is rapidly approaching and is unlikely to be deferred. Planning should consist of examining your whole process. Chemistry and equipment work as a team.
It is important to know your local regulatory situation. Local and state agencies might be open to changes on alternatives but you must ask for them.
As with any process, test before you buy. Most suppliers have applications labs and will help you to conduct testing but it is important to work closely with the lab.
Stockpiling or obtaining the ability to recycle HCFC-225 may buy a little time to accomplish a cost effective process change. This option should not be considered to be a good long-term solution.
They have plasma cleaning machines that don't use any CF4 gas. I think the industry needs to move in that direction.
