Abstract: A solder alloy which is lead free, consists essentially of, in weight %: Sn; 0<Ag≦4.0; 0<Cu≦2.0; 0<Ni≦1.0; and 0<Ge≦1.0, wherein addition of Ni and Ge to the solder alloy enhances wettability and tensile strength, and prevents formation of an oxide film. Additionally, a solder alloy which is lead free, consists essentially of, in weight %: Sn; 0<Sb≦3.5; 0≦Ag ≦4.0; 0<Ge≦1.0; and at least one first additive selected from the group consisting of (a) 0<Ni≦1.0 and (b) a combination of 0<Ni≦1.0 and 0<Cu≦1.0; wherein addition of Ni and Ge to the solder alloy enhances wettability and tensile strength, and prevents formation of an oxide film.

Abstract: Lead-free alloys of the present invention includes bismuth in the amount of 30 to 58% by weight and one of the following first to fourth compositions in addition to tin as a main component. In the first composition, germanium is present in the amount of 0.1 or less % by weight. In the second composition, silver is present in the amount of 5% by weight or less and antimony is present in the amount of 5% by weight or less in addition to 0.1% by weight or less of germanium of silver. In the third composition, nickel and copper are included, preferably 0.2 or less % by weight or less of nickel and 1% by weight of copper. In the fourth composition, at least one selected from the group of 5 or less % by weight of silver, 5 or less % by weight of antimony, and 0.1 or less % by weight of germanium in addition to 0.2 or less % by weight of nickel and 1 or less % by weight of copper.

Abstract: A forming die including of a holder having an upper portion and a lower portion, each portion having a main substrate extending in a first longitudinal direction. A fixing substrate is located on one end of the main substrate and a movable substrate is located on an opposite end of the main substrate and is movable along the main substrate in the first longitudinal direction. A plurality of die forming segments are situated between the movable substrate and the fixing substrate. Tie rods extend along the main substrate outside the periphery of the plurality of die forming segments, and connect the movable substrate and the fixing substrate to one another.