New experimental approaches for the characterization of compliant press-fit pins in plated-through holes

New experimental approaches are demonstrated to reveal more detailed physical characteristics that govern the performance and reliability of compliant press-fit pin/plated through hole assemblies as compared to common methods involving peak insertion and withdrawal force measurements. These approaches include: (1) measurement of the withdrawal force-displacement profile with high-speed techniques. (2) microdisplacement tests involving displacement in the micron range, and (3) long-term cyclic microdisplacement tests in a controlled environment. The results of these tests provide, respectively, information on: (1) the withdrawl energy and contact area. (2) the stiffness of the assembly, which relates to bond strength and contact area, and (3), the effects of fretting from thermal displacement cycles