Low cycle fatigue analysis and test methodology for fine pitch leaded surface mount components

In support of Avionics Integrity Program (AVIP) contracts, Rockwell has implemented a methodology that allows for the rapid evaluation of fine pitch leaded surface mount components. In order to provide an evaluation tool at the front end of the design process, the methodology builds upon a set of simplified equations developed by Werner Engelmaier and Robert Kotlowitz. This paper describes the methodology used to correlate the simplified equations using a combination of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and temperature cycle life testing. The testing is designed to account for process variability and to verify the FEA results