David,

That discussion has started.  Once we get 500 pounds of dross they will pick it up… for free.  The problem comes from the dross being considered hazardous waste by the EPA and Mass. DEP and not generating more than 50 to 70 pounds per bucket.  So we have to store (and label?) the buckets until we get to the magic 50 pounds.  One could argue that while the bucket sits by the wave solder machine being filled over time it is just as hazardous as when it is stored in the back corner awaiting enough to recycle.

Thanks,



Phil



From: David Hillman [mailto:[log in to unmask]]

Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 11:50 AM

To: TechNet E-Mail Forum; Nutting, Phil

Subject: Re: [TN] tin/lead dross storage



Hi Phil - solder "dross" is primarily solder oxide so if we are talking tin/lead solder then the dross is mostly tin oxide with minor accumulations of the other solder alloy elements and/or metals from the assemblies you have been processing - elements like copper, gold, silver, nickel, etc. Depending on how you have removed the dross from the solder pot, you will also have some small amounts of the solder alloy contained in the dross (i.e. tin and lead particles). The solder suppliers and other recycling companies will purchase your dross material to recover the valuable elements and the solder content.  My recommendation is to start a conversation with  your solder supplier about your dross. Good luck.



Dave Hillman

Rockwell Collins

[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>



On Tue, Aug 28, 2018 at 10:20 AM, Nutting, Phil <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>> wrote:

Yes, we still use some tin/lead solder.  A question came up recently about storing tin/lead dross from a wave solder machine because it was "hazardous material".  We would want to store it until we had enough material to make recycling it cost effective.



How different is dross from raw bar solder of the same alloy?



Phil Nutting  |  HVP Senior Development Engineer   |  Excelitas Technologies Corp



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