Bad Solderability of Copper Zinc Plating: Smart Fixes

Summary for bad solderability of copper zinc plating Discussion

Bad solderability of copper zinc plating is the core issue in this thread. Dudut Yudiantoro of Bekasi, Indonesia asked why a CuZn-plated pin contact would fail solderability testing, with tin not covering the full surface, and whether the part should be stripped before re-plating. In response, a contributor noted that copper-zinc alloys are brass, and brass is generally a poor contact material; electrical contacts are more commonly plated with gold or silver. The answerer said they were puzzled by the use of brass plating on an unknown base material, and suggested that if CuZn plating is required for some reason, the solderability problem may come from an unsuitable flux rather than the plating alone. The practical advice was to consult the solder/flux supplier before assuming the coating must be removed and replaced.