Influence of process parameters on SAC305 lead-free solder powder produced by centrifugal atomization

► Median particle size of produced SAC305 solder powder could be decreased by increasing rotating speed, decreasing melt feed rate and using a larger size atomizer. ► Cup shaped atomizer was able to give about 11% finer powder compared to flat disc shaped one. ► Median particle size appeared to be smaller and shape of the particles tended to be rounder with decreasing oxygen content in the chamber. ► Fine particles of SAC305 powder (-45 microns) containing oxygen less than 100 ppm could be synthesized by purging nitrogen gas into the atomizing chamber. ► Production yield of SAC305 powder could be increased with increasing rotating speed of atomizer, reducing melt feed rate, and with the use of larger atomizer.