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Starting new soldering process

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#77136

Starting new soldering process | 21 February, 2017

We're about to setup our own soldering process... I have some experience from the contract manuf industry.

Types of solder processes: - tip soldering robot for low volume - Japan UNIX LASER soldering machine for high volume

Questions:

1) Examples of fluxes that can be used for either of the 2 processes - currently looking at: Sparkle Flux SR-12 to be used with an AIM Sn100C solder

2) Looking for ocnsistent flux dispensing solutions; currently using the infamous flux bottles

3) Automated cleaning solutions post-soldering with multiple non-washable, unsealed components on PCBA; currently manually cleaning with a brush & wipes

Currently looking at YesTech AOI and manual inspection methods for our IPC Class-3 products.

Any tips on process development? FYI, the PCBs in question are about 10"x4".

Thanks!

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#77154

Starting new soldering process | 1 March, 2017

Learning to solder through-hole components is an essential skill for any electronic professional.And basic soldering is easy to learn if you are building simple electronic circuits. Also the most common solder alloy used in electronics is 60% tin and 40% lead, sometimes notated as 60/40. This alloy is recommended if you are new to soldering, though it is somewhat hazardous, requiring proper ventilation, breathing protection, or a soldering iron with a vacuum attachment.

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#77211

Starting new soldering process | 7 March, 2017

I would like to recommend QUICK soldering robots as a BEST VALUE for hot iron table tops. Laser Soldering is not very friendly (FYI)

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#77224

Starting new soldering process | 10 March, 2017

Any reason why you wouldn't recommend Laser soldering?

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#77297

Starting new soldering process | 22 March, 2017

Laser Soldering by nature is a very dialed in process. - Requiring specially formulated flux and solder paste applications that will perform while absorbing a massive amount of energy.

What I believe "Gary" is attempting to say is: Laser Soldering can be a very unforgiving process in terms of flexibility.

Let's take a look at the application: If the pin to pad ratio is determined, how much space or real estate sits between the pin to ID of pad? If any space exists, a laser will shoot right through melting any components, plastic, or other critical items behind / underneath.

Additionally, as mentioned, because the laser is focusing such a large amount of energy to a single area - users will need to realize the cost for formulated materials that properly suit the application. (eg. If flux is not properly spec'd, it will burn off before it has a chance to perform. Second, if solder paste is used, the laser must be dialed in properly as to avoid simply blowing the paste off the pad.)

If using Flux Cored Solder Wire: Integrated Perforation Solder feeders should be at the top of the list for any automated soldering solution as they allow the "out-gassing" of the flux-core to release quicker and more efficiently - aiding in the reduction of solder ball and flux splatter defects.

For high volume applications, a single laser machine can perform very well.

However, for users requiring frequent change-over of processes, head angles, and materials (leaded to lead-free) users can see more "Bang for buck" on more affordable table-top hot iron robotic soldering systems. Where (for the cost of 1 laser system) users can interface with multiple different systems set-up for different applications.

(May also want to consider the time and cost of purging systems, such as a selective solder machine for example - where many of the materials being removed to change the process over are ultimately lost as scrap. eg. solder/nitrogen)

I don't think anyone would argue ,laser soldering is great when it's set-up and running as it should.

However in terms of overall flexibility and environments that call for high amounts of change-over I would look for performance and flexibility vs. price.

Note* Some in-line hot iron solutions exist that offer you the best of both worlds.

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