Labarge now offers lead-free capability

LaBarge, Inc. has fully integrated a completely lead-free manufacturing process into its electronics manufacturing services capabilities.

LaBarge handles the materials, manufacture and testing of assemblies for customers whose products must comply with new European environmental legislation.

LaBarge's Pittsburgh facility developed the new capability so that the transition to lead-free assemblies would be transparent to customers who must meet the requirements of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive.

From changing its components sourcing to developing new soldering applications, LaBarge has established solutions to maintain the highest quality standards in lead-free assemblies without compromising the RoHS requirements.

"Because of LaBarge's historical high quality and responsiveness, we were confident they would come through as a lead-free supplier who would help Keithley in meeting the specialized needs of our customers in regard to the RoHS requirements," stated Steve Chipchase, Keithley's director of operations. "Both Keithley and LaBarge are committed to producing outstanding products that meet the highest quality and strictest environmental standards."

Randy Buschling, LaBarge's chief operating officer said, "We've worked closely with our customers to offer a lead-free manufacturing process that meets their requirements ahead of the 2006 deadline. Now they can focus on maintaining their competitive advantage instead of scrambling to meet the RoHS requirements."