Lead-free electronics

Endress+Hauser has removed lead from all electronic components in its ongoing products portfolio, complying with a recent European directive aimed at protecting human health from the effects of this extremely harmful heavy metal.

The company has now reduced its future lead consumption to only a few kilograms per year " achieving a saving of 1.5 tonnes per year.

The incorrect disposal of electronic devices containing traditional lead-based solder is a significant cause of environmental lead pollution worldwide. Lead leached out by acid rain eventually seeps into the groundwater and enters the human food chain. Eliminating the use of lead is therefore a responsibility for all manufacturers of electronic devices.

Since July 2006, the EU's RoHS guideline (Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances) has required the European electronics industry to find lead-free alternatives for soldering. As a manufacturer of measuring equipment, Endress+ Hauser is exempt from these requirements. However, explained Klaus Endress, "we want to meet the requirements of the RoHS guideline voluntarily " for the sake of the environment and our health".