What is RoHS and why does it matter?
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) is a UK and EU regulation that limits the use of certain hazardous materials in electrical and electronic equipment, including lead (Pb).
For customers designing systems for global markets, the RoHS status of key components such as IGBT modules is critical. Non-compliant components can create barriers to market entry, increase certification effort, and introduce long-term regulatory risk.
IGBT modules incorporate materials and processes that are directly affected by RoHS requirements, including:
- Die attach materials
- Internal solders and interconnects
- Plating and surface finishes
Because IGBT modules sit at the heart of many power conversion systems, their material composition has a direct impact on overall system compliance.
Dynex approach to RoHS and lead-free technology
Dynex offers a wide range of RoHS-compliant, lead-free IGBT modules designed for industrial, energy, and transportation applications. Where lead-containing materials are used, this is:
- Restricted to applications covered by RoHS exemptions
- Clearly identified at part-number level
- Supported by appropriate technical documentation
This ensures customers can make informed decisions based on their application, regulatory environment, and product lifetime expectations.
Does lead-free impact reliability?
Historically, lead-based solders were valued for their mechanical robustness and thermal fatigue resistance. However, lead-free technology has evolved significantly.
Dynex manufactured IGBT modules benefit from:
- Advanced lead-free solder alloys
- Silver-sintered and alternative die attach technologies
- Optimised substrate and baseplate designs
As a result, today’s lead-free modules can deliver excellent power cycling and thermal cycling performance, meeting the long service-life demands of high-power applications.
Why do some applications still use leaded solutions?
Certain sectors, including rail traction, HVDC transmission, defence, and specialist industrial systems, may operate under RoHS exemptions or require compatibility with legacy platforms. In these cases, proven lead-containing designs may still be the most appropriate technical solution. However, exemptions are application-specific and regularly reviewed, making them less suitable for new designs where long-term availability is required.
For most new system designs, specifying RoHS-compliance, lead-free IGBT modules offers clear advantages:
- Reduced regulatory and audit risk
- Easier access to global markets
- Alignment with corporate sustainability goals
- Greater long-term supply security
At Dynex, we actively support customers in transitioning to lead-free solutions while continuing to support exempt and legacy applications where required.
While some specialist sectors operate under RoHS exemptions, for most new designs lead-free IGBT modules help future-proof systems, reduce regulatory risk and support sustainability goals. If you’re reviewing IGBT module options or planning a new design, our product specialist team are happy to support you through the process.
View the attached leaflet, Dynex IGBT Overview Leaflet 2025 for a list of UK manufactired lead-free IGBT modules as supplied by Dynex Semiconductor Ltd.