JUNE 1999

PRESS RELEASE                   CLIENT :    ITRI

        ITRI Launch the first Lead-Free Soldering Technology Centre


Formerly known as the International Tin Research Institute, ITRI announces
the  launch of what is believed to be the world's first Lead-Free Soldering
Technology Centre.

Based at its purpose built HQ and Laboratories near Heathrow airport, on
the Brunel Science Park in Uxbridge, ITRI are setting up this facility to
meet the challenges that lead-free technology demands.

Research into lead-free soldering is not new at ITRI. For over a decade
their scientific  team  has been at the forefront of investigating
alternative solutions for industry. They have a  long standing and enviable
international reputation in the soldering industry, hence their
participation in writing the "Analysis of the
Current Status of Lead-Free Soldering", a warmly received report
commissioned by the DTI.

The report highlights the urgent need to consolidate lead-free research and
information, hence this exciting new initiative. ITRI has a unique
technology resource and will now offer a world-class centre of excellence
for all lead-free knowledge.

The Technology Centre is expanding its production facility, whilst still
retaining its strong research base with continuing development into:-
reliability, metallurgy, recovery and landfill, printed circuit boards,
components and process issues. Many new research & development projects are
being set up and the list is available to potential collaborators.

An internet web site will give immediate global access to reports,
legislation issues, a suppliers directory and useful fact sheets.

A new range of training courses and seminars are planned, as is a
"one-stop" shop of multi-media products covering all aspects of the
lead-free topic.

An official opening of the new centre is planned for September. Kay Nimmo,
Research Manager at the announcement of the Technology Centre stated " I
and all my colleagues  at ITRI believe this initiative is much needed and
is an opportunity for this facility to become the world technology centre
for the biggest challenge facing our industry".
                        -ends-

For further information:

Kay Nimmo,
        ITRI Ltd,
        Kingston Lane,
Uxbridge,
Middlesex UB8 3PJ.

Tel: +44(0)1895 272406  Fax: +44(0)1895 251841
e-mail: [log in to unmask]


Agency Contact: Mike Judd

        Tel: +44(0)118 978 4581 Fax: +(0)118 979 0799
        e-mail: [log in to unmask]

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IPCWorks -October 25-28 featuring an International Summit on Lead-Free Electronic
Assemblies.
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(http://www.ipc.org/html/leadfree.htm ) for additional information.
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