Patent ID: 6719188
Filing Date: 2004-04-13
Classification: B23K,H01L,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for separating electronic components joined by a row-by-row array of solder interconnections comprising the steps of:supplying an electronic component assembly having at least two components joined by a plurality of solder interconnections in a row-by-row array and having a first thickness; providing a water jet cutting element having a thickness less than the first thickness of the solder interconnections and which element has a front edge which extends across a row of solder interconnections and which has a plurality of water let openings spaced along the front edge of the element; positioning the water jet cutting element adjacent one of the rows of the solder interconnections; applying a force to advance the water jet cutting element through the row of solder interconnections whereby water jets from the openings in the water jet cutting element engage and simultaneously cuts through each solder interconnection in the row of solder interconnections and severs the row of solder interconnections; continuing the above steps for the remaining rows of solder interconnections to cut and sever all the rows of solder interconnections; and separating the two components.