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Expiring RoHS Exemptions: The End of Lead in Alloys

On 8 September 2025, the European Commission decided that several RoHS exemptions for the use of lead in steel, aluminum, and copper alloys will permanently expire. For companies this means: take action no later than 30 June 2027 – otherwise, access to the EU market will be at risk.

RoHs_Compliant

What is behind this decision?

The RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU) restricts hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, or cadmium in electrical and electronic equipment. Until now, exemptions allowed the use of lead in certain alloys because technically and economically viable alternatives were not available. These special rules will now end on the following dates:

Deadlines at a glance

  • Steel alloys: max. 0.35 % / 0.2 % lead → deadline 30 June 2027
  • Aluminum alloys: max. 0.4 % / 0.3 % → no later than 30 June 2027
  • Copper alloys: max. 4 % → deadline 30 June 2027
 

For specific industrial applications, transitional periods also apply – but only until 2027.

What does this mean for manufacturers?

  • Check materials: Where is lead still in use?
  • Adapt supply chains: Secure lead-free alternatives in time.
  • Ensure compliance: Only compliant products may be placed on the EU market after 2027.
 

Companies that act early safeguard their market access and avoid costly redesigns or delivery stops. At Nexpirit, we help you map regulatory requirements such as RoHS directly into your Teamcenter PLM processes. This enables you to keep track of critical substances, ensure compliance, and create transparency for sustainable product decisions.

Sources & further information

  • Delegated Directive of the European Commission – PDF download (link PDF)
  • European Commission: Implementation of the RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU): Environment Website
  • Delegated Directive on expiring lead exemptions (September 2025) and EUR-Lex+1

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