Reliability Matters

Mike Konrad
  • 4.8 (9)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

Reliability Matters is a podcast on the subject of reliability of circuit assemblies. Reliability "best practices" and success stories are discussed. This podcast features interviews with experts in the electronic assembly industry. All electronic production segments which effect product reliability are on the table. This includes contamination, coating, cleanliness assessment, inspection, building for harsh environments, reflow, printing, failure analysis, board fabrication, and much more. Your Host: Mike Konrad began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Mike is an internationally known speaker on the subject of increasing reliability through contamination removal and cleanliness quantification techniques and procedures. Mike was awarded “Distinguish Speaker Status” with SMTA in 2018 and received the “Rich Freiberger Best of Conference Award” in 2019. Mike is a member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he is Vice President of Communications. Mike is also Vice President of Technical Programs for the Los Angeles / Orange County SMTA Chapter. Visit the Reliability Matters Podcast Website: https://www.reliabilitymatterspodcast.com

  1. Preserving Knowledge,Advancing Reliability: A Reliability Matters Podcast Year-End Reflection - #183

    3D AGO

    Preserving Knowledge,Advancing Reliability: A Reliability Matters Podcast Year-End Reflection - #183

    Since 2018, Reliability Matters has been building a knowledge vault, capturing the wisdom of industry experts for engineers everywhere.  In this special year-end episode, we celebrate the journey, the growth, and the community that made it possible.

    10 min
  2. Getting it Right: How to Work Effectively with your CM - With Daniel Stanphill & Sean Kincaid

    DEC 9

    Getting it Right: How to Work Effectively with your CM - With Daniel Stanphill & Sean Kincaid

    Today, we’re continuing our dive into the world of contract manufacturing—a vital piece of the electronics ecosystem. Joining me are two industry leaders who know this space inside and out. First, we have Daniel Stanphill, SMT Process Engineer at Aurora Boardworks, and alongside him, Sean Kincaid, President of K & F Electronics.  Both Daniel and Sean represent companies that provide contract manufacturing services to a wide range of customers, helping turn design concepts into dependable, production-ready circuit assemblies. In this conversation, we’ll explore what makes for a successful relationship between contract manufacturers and their customers. We’ll talk about the types of customers they look for, the challenges they face in today’s manufacturing environment, and the common mistakes that can derail a project if not addressed early on.  Most importantly, we’ll dig into best practices that can help customers and manufacturers work together more effectively. You may recognize Daniel and Sean. In addition to their day jobs, Daniel and Sean, along with Elias Malfavon Jr. are also co-hosts of the d-code podcast, where they share candid conversations and insights from across the electronics industry.  We’ll hear what inspired them to launch the show and how it ties into their mission of building stronger connections in this field. So whether you’re an engineer, a buyer, or anyone working with contract manufacturers, this episode is packed with advice to help you navigate the process with confidence.  Daniel is an SMT Process Engineer at: Aurora Boardworks https://auroraboardworks.com Sean is President of: K & F Electronics https://www.circuitboards.com

    1h 6m
  3. What Every OEM Should Know About Working with Contract Manufacturers - With Raymond Novara

    NOV 25

    What Every OEM Should Know About Working with Contract Manufacturers - With Raymond Novara

    The next two episodes will be all about contract manufacturing, an area that can make or break the reliability and success of a product.  My guest on this episode is Raymond Novara, founder and owner of East End Assemblies, a U.S.-based contract manufacturer recognized for its focus on quality, customer service, and compliance with AS9100 and IPC standards. During our conversation, I’ll be asking Raymond some key questions that every OEM should be considering: What are the best practices for selecting a contract manufacturer?What common mistakes do companies make when working with a CM—especially in communication and hand-offs?How can design-for-manufacturability feedback prevent problems down the road?What should customers know about transitioning from prototypes to volume production?And how can contract manufacturers help ensure long-term product reliability, not just passing initial tests? If you’re an OEM evaluating partners, an engineer preparing to hand off a design, or someone interested in how contract manufacturers contribute to product reliability, this episode is packed with insights. Raymond Novara's Company: East End Assemblies https://eastendassemblies.com

    58 min
  4. Cooler Connections: Low Temp Soldering for a High-Reliability World With Indium’s Dr. Hongwen Zhang

    NOV 11

    Cooler Connections: Low Temp Soldering for a High-Reliability World With Indium’s Dr. Hongwen Zhang

    This is the fourth of four episodes on the subject of soldering materials. Today, we're diving into a topic that's reshaping how we think about thermal management, energy efficiency, and long-term performance in electronics manufacturing—low temperature soldering. Joining me is Dr. HongWen Zhang, Principal Metallurgist and R&D Manager of the Alloy Group at Indium Corporation.  Dr. Zhang is not only a seasoned materials scientist with a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering, a Master’s degree in materials science and engineering and in mechanical engineering and a Bachelor’s degree in metallurgical physical chemistry he’s also the co-inventor of Durafuse, a groundbreaking family of solder alloys that are redefining what's possible at low reflow temperatures—which, reportedly, does not compromise reliability.  In this episode, we’ll explore how low temperature solders are helping manufacturers lower energy consumption, protect heat-sensitive components, and still meet the rigorous mechanical and environmental demands of today’s electronics—from wearables to wafer-level packaging. We’ll also talk about the challenges of brittleness, drop shock resistance, activation and encapsulation of no clean activators, and how cutting-edge materials research is solving problems that used to be considered trade-offs. Whether you’re a reliability engineer, a process expert, or just solder-curious, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Indium's Website: https://www.indium.com Durafuse ®: https://www.indium.com/products/alloys/solder-alloys/durafuse-lt/

    53 min
  5. Building Reliability from the Inside Out: Indium's CEO’s on Innovation & Reliability with Ross Berntson

    OCT 28

    Building Reliability from the Inside Out: Indium's CEO’s on Innovation & Reliability with Ross Berntson

    This is the third of four episodes on the subject of soldering materials. Today, we’re continuing our deep dive into the world of soldering materials, from advanced alloys and flux chemistries to global manufacturing strategy and materials innovation, with one of the industry’s most respected leaders.   Joining me is Ross Berntson, President and CEO of Indium Corporation. Ross has been with Indium Corporation for nearly 30 years, starting as a product specialist and rising through the ranks with leadership roles in product management, technical support, and international operations. He even spent time leading Indium’s Asia Holdings while based in Singapore, strengthening the company’s presence across Southeast Asia.   In his current role as CEO, Ross sets the strategic direction for a global materials powerhouse, one that’s known not only for its high-performance soldering products but for its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and engineering support through the company’s “One Engineer to Another” philosophy. Ross holds degrees in chemistry, teaching, and an MBA from Cornell University, where he earned several prestigious academic awards. He’s also deeply engaged in both the electronics industry and his community, serving on multiple boards and leading with a strong emphasis on culture, opportunity, and respect, the core of what Indium calls “The Indium Way.”   In this episode, we’ll discuss how soldering materials are evolving to meet the demands of modern electronics, from miniaturization and harsh environments to UHDI and advanced packaging.  We’ll also talk about Indium’s unique positioning in the industry, the challenges of global supply chains, and what the future of soldering looks like from the vantage point of a company that’s helped shape it. Indium Corporation: https://www.indium.com The book Ross recommended: Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World Paperback  By David Epstein https://tinyurl.com/3tjvj34n

    1h 4m
  6. Behind the Alloy: Soldering Materials, Process Control, & Reliability Shantanu Joshi & Greg Starrett

    OCT 14

    Behind the Alloy: Soldering Materials, Process Control, & Reliability Shantanu Joshi & Greg Starrett

    This is the second of four episodes on the subject of soldering materials. In today’s episode, continuing the subject of soldering materials, diving deep into the science, strategy, and subtleties behind one of the most foundational elements of electronic assembly: soldering materials.  Joining me are two experts from KOKI Solder—Shantanu Joshi, Head of Customer Solutions and Operational Excellence, and Greg Starrett, General Manager of North American Operations. Together, they bring decades of experience in solder chemistry, process engineering, and real-world reliability.   We’ll explore how soldering materials influence long-term performance, how material and process decisions interact, and what assemblers should consider when aiming for high-reliability outcomes. From surface finishes and flux residues to void mitigation and future trends in solder formulation, this episode offers practical insights that go well beyond the datasheet. So whether you’re on the factory floor, in the lab, or managing quality and reliability at scale—this conversation is for you. Shantanu Joshi Head of Customer Solutions shantanu@kokiamerica.com Greg Starrett National Sales Manager greg@kokiamerica.com

    58 min
  7. SMTAI 2025 Conference & Event Preview - Special Episode

    SEP 24

    SMTAI 2025 Conference & Event Preview - Special Episode

    This episode is all about SMTAI, surface mount Technology International, taking place OCTOBER 19 - 23, 2025 at the DONALD E. STEPHENS CONVENTION CENTER in ROSEMONT, ILLINOIS.  SMTA International is the premier gathering for innovation and collaboration in electronics assembly, surface mount technology, and advanced manufacturing. This year, SMTAI is more than just a conference and expo. It’s an opportunity for experts, newcomers, industry leaders, and rising professionals to come together, exchange ideas, showcase breakthroughs, and shape the future of electronics manufacturing.  Over several days, you’ll see deep-technical sessions, the latest research, hands-on exhibits, and, co-located with the assembly show, you can expect a bustling expo floor where solution providers and attendees connect on everything from process optimization to next-generation materials. To talk more about the technical conference, I’ve invited members of the conference committee to share some highlights of the conference. Tony Lentz from FCT Assembly Gayle Towell from Aim Solder Tom Rovere from Lockheed Martin Maurice Dore from Valeo Kelly Flanagan from Rockwell And, although not a member of the Technical Committee but a member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors and Chair of the Students and Young Professionals committee, Dr. Adam Klett of Kyzen Corporation. More information on SMTAI is available here: https://www.smtai.org

    1h 3m
  8. The Chemistry of Reliability: Choosing the Right Solder and Flux: A Conversation with Chris Ward

    SEP 23

    The Chemistry of Reliability: Choosing the Right Solder and Flux: A Conversation with Chris Ward

    This is the first of four episodes on the subject of soldering materials. In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Ward, founder and Managing Director of Solderking Assembly Materials Limited, a UK-based manufacturer of solders and chemical consumables for electronic, electrical, and engineered assemblies. Chris brings decades of experience in soldering materials and chemical formulations—and he’s built a company committed to performance, consistency, and innovation. Earlier this year, Chris and his company were honored with the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, recognizing their exceptional export growth. That recognition earned him an invitation to Windsor Castle, where he had the distinct honor of meeting King Charles III. Today, we’ll explore the evolving world of soldering materials—from the realities behind “no-clean” flux, to reliability challenges in harsh environments, to innovations in solder chemistry that support today’s miniaturized and mission-critical electronics. Whether you're on the production floor, in the design lab, or managing quality and reliability, this is a conversation that brings valuable insight into the materials behind the mission. SolderKing: https://solderking.com

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Reliability Matters is a podcast on the subject of reliability of circuit assemblies. Reliability "best practices" and success stories are discussed. This podcast features interviews with experts in the electronic assembly industry. All electronic production segments which effect product reliability are on the table. This includes contamination, coating, cleanliness assessment, inspection, building for harsh environments, reflow, printing, failure analysis, board fabrication, and much more. Your Host: Mike Konrad began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Mike is an internationally known speaker on the subject of increasing reliability through contamination removal and cleanliness quantification techniques and procedures. Mike was awarded “Distinguish Speaker Status” with SMTA in 2018 and received the “Rich Freiberger Best of Conference Award” in 2019. Mike is a member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he is Vice President of Communications. Mike is also Vice President of Technical Programs for the Los Angeles / Orange County SMTA Chapter. Visit the Reliability Matters Podcast Website: https://www.reliabilitymatterspodcast.com

Information

  • Creator
    Mike Konrad
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    189
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Mike Konrad
  • Show Website
    Reliability Matters

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