Technical Library | 2023-09-16 03:40:41.0
Wave soldering machines are the most efficient way to solder PCBs. They are used to solder components to a PCB by passing the PCB through a wave of molten solder. This process is fast, accurate, and repeatable, making it ideal for mass production. In this article, we will discuss the basics of wave soldering machines, including their components, operation, and benefits. We will also provide a buying guide to help you choose the right wave soldering machine for your needs.
Technical Library | 2008-08-28 22:50:11.0
The increasing use of lead-free solder has introduced a new set of process parameters when setting up wave solder equipment for effective soldering. Determining the proper flow characteristics of the solder wave for adequate hole fill is an essential step in achieving a reliable process. A variety of solder waves exist in the industry; each with advantages and disadvantages when performing lead-free wave soldering. One way to ensure adequate hole-fill is by increasing contact time at the Chip Wave.
Technical Library | 1999-05-07 10:38:11.0
This paper is a report of a study made to determine the maximum allowable impurities in solder used for wave soldering applications. This report concludes with a list of impurities compiled from actual analyses of solder which caused production problems. A list of recommended maximum allowable impurities will assist in establishing reliable quality controls on the purity level of the solder in a wave soldering machine.
Technical Library | 2003-04-18 12:05:57.0
The popular tin (Sn) rich lead free solders are causing severe corrosion to many of the materials used in today's Wave Solder systems. Users are experiencing higher maintenance frequency and reduced life of wave solder machine components. This paper describes the effects of Sn rich solders in contact with various materials and discusses alternate methods to alleviate this problem.
Technical Library | 2008-07-10 12:52:18.0
This paper reviews the J-STD-004 and how it is used in flux categorization and selection. It also discusses the major types of flux formulations available, and the design, process and reliability implications of using each type. The purpose of the paper is to help the reader make an informed choice when selecting wave solder fluxes for lead-free processing.
Technical Library | 2023-11-14 19:33:57.0
Wave soldering is an established technology and is commonly used where large unit volumes occur with low product variety. However, if a wave soldering machine is getting old or if technological changes or new PCB designs limits its manufacturing capabilities, consideration should be given to whether selective soldering would be a better choice. Anyone who deals with soldering through-hole and surface mount mixed-technology printed circuit assemblies will quickly discover that a selective soldering machine is not only less expensive that wave soldering, but selective soldering also offers the opportunity to meet customer requirements with significantly more flexibility. One such company is Thomas Preuhs GmbH. Located in Geislingen, Germany, Thomas Preuhs GmbH manufactures a variety of electronic assemblies for solar and HVAC data systems, automotive and white goods products as well as electric drive systems.
Technical Library | 2017-12-11 22:31:06.0
Typical printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) processed by reflow, wave, or selective wave soldering were analysed for typical levels of process related residues, resulting from a specific or combination of soldering process. Typical solder flux residue distribution pattern, composition, and concentration are profiled and reported. Presence of localized flux residues were visualized using a commercial Residue RAT gel test and chemical structure was identified by FT-IR, while the concentration was measured using ion chromatography, and the electrical properties of the extracts were determined by measuring the leak current using a twin platinum electrode setup. Localized extraction of residue was carried out using a commercial C3 extraction system. Results clearly show that the amount and distribution of flux residues are a function of the soldering process, and the level can be reduced by an appropriate cleaning. Selective soldering process generates significantly higher levels of residues compared to the wave and reflow process. For conformal coated PCBAs, the contamination levels generated from the tested wave and selective soldering process are found to be enough to generate blisters under exposure to high humidity levels.
Technical Library | 2009-12-14 20:27:54.0
Solder paste is the most recognized form of solder used in electronics assembly today. A surface mount application depends on solder paste to attach the components to the circuit board. However, solder paste may not be the only solution. This is especially true when working with through-hole components or very large devices that require more solder than can be supplied by printed solder paste. In fact, quite often a PCB involves mixed technology that requires more than one form of solder. Solder paste is used for the surface mount components and solder preforms are utilized to attach the leads on through-hole components, avoiding wave or selective soldering.
Technical Library | 2008-01-24 21:42:39.0
Although many through-hole components are being replaced by their surface mount (SMT) counterparts, printed circuit boards (PCBs) are still being designed with both types of components. Often, there are interconnect hardware, displays, or other components that cannot withstand the exposure to the high temperature involved in the wave soldering process. They are generally soldered by hand. The challenge is to determine the optimal method manufacturers can use to solder these boards populated with mixed technology.
Technical Library | 2017-03-22 20:58:08.0
Water soluble lead-free solder paste is widely used in today’s SMT processes, but the industry is slowly moving away from water soluble solder pastes in favor of no-clean solder pastes. This shift in usage of solder paste is driven by an effort to eliminate the water wash process. Some components cannot tolerate water wash and elimination of water washing streamlines the SMT process. Despite this shift, certain applications lend themselves to the use of water soluble solder paste.This paper details the research and development of a new water soluble lead-free solder paste which improves on the performance characteristics of existing technologies.
