Dry Storage Matters: Our STHL Protocols for Moisture-Sensitive Device Protection

Understanding MSD Classification
MSDs are rated from Level 1 (least sensitive) to Level 6 (most sensitive). Level 2-5a devices require careful floor life management. Each component's label indicates its MSL rating, baking requirements, and the environmental conditions under which floor life is measured. Level 4 devices, for example, have a floor life of just 72 hours after opening, while Level 5a devices must be used within 24 hours or baked. Our team is trained to recognize these ratings and respond with appropriate handling protocols.

Receiving and Inspection Protocol
Upon receipt, our incoming inspection team verifies each MSD's moisture barrier bag integrity, checks humidity indicator cards (must show appropriate humidity level), confirms the bag's seal date, and ensures the device floor life has not been exceeded. Any compromised bags trigger immediate baking requirements. We also inspect for physical damage that could compromise the hermetic seal of the component itself—cracks, chips, or discoloration that might indicate prior moisture exposure.

Dry Storage Solutions
Opened MSDs or those removed from moisture barrier bags are stored in computer-controlled dry cabinets maintaining less than 10% relative humidity at 25°C. These cabinets continuously monitor and log humidity and temperature, and doors are interlocked to minimize exposure during access. Our main dry storage cabinet holds over 500 standard reels, with smaller satellite cabinets located near each SMT line for quick access during production. Alarm systems alert supervisors if humidity exceeds specified limits.

Floor Life Tracking
Our MES system tracks each MSD's accumulated exposure time. When a reel is removed from dry storage, the clock starts. If the floor life limit approaches, automated alerts notify production planning. Exposed but unused components are returned to dry storage with exposure time noted, or sent for baking before reuse. The system also tracks each reel's location in real-time, preventing the use of an exposed component beyond its rated floor life even if multiple operators handle the same material over several days.

Baking Procedures
Components exceeding floor life limits undergo controlled baking to remove absorbed moisture—typically 24-48 hours at 125°C for standard devices, or lower temperatures for special components like LEDs or connectors with plastic housings that cannot tolerate high heat. Baking parameters are specified by component manufacturers and stored in our MES database. After baking, components are re-bagged with fresh desiccant and humidity cards, effectively resetting their floor life counter. Our baking oven logs every cycle for quality documentation.

Our rigorous MSD management ensures that moisture-related defects never compromise your assemblies' reliability. Every component receives proper protection from receipt through placement, and every handling event is tracked and verified.

Trust your moisture-sensitive components to a manufacturer who takes MSD control seriously. Contact us to discuss your assembly requirements and learn how our protocols protect your products from hidden moisture damage.