Rosin versus water soluble flux

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I work for an R&D company that is starting to do some proto... - Jan 02, 2001 by

Hi Dave, Water soluble flux has two opposite attributes. ... - Jan 03, 2001 by

Mike -- Thanks for the information. It is very helpful. ... - Jan 04, 2001 by

Dave Miller

#2095

Rosin versus water soluble flux | 2 January, 2001

I work for an R&D company that is starting to do some prototype and limited production circuit cards. We are deciding how we want to build these boards, and we are wondering what we should do about flux and cleaning. We have circuits that run at 15,000 volts, so cleanliness is crucial. Because we do sporadic builds, we need something that lends itself to small lots and easy startup. We do not have any ability to treat hazardous waste, so a self-contained system or a system that did not generate waste would be a big plus. Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

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Mike Konrad

#2096

Re: Rosin versus water soluble flux | 3 January, 2001

Hi Dave,

Water soluble flux has two opposite attributes.

#1: It is the easiest flux to remove. #2: It is the worst flux to leave behind on a board.

As for # 1, there are many de-fluxing systems out there that are very capable of removing water soluble fluxes and pastes. If you have environmental concerns, then water soluble is by far the best choice. Water soluble fluxes and pastes normally can be removed without the addition of chemicals into the wash water. A chemical-free process is very easy (and inexpensive) to close-loop, helping keep the environmental �police� away. Additionally, cleaning costs are considerably lower if chemicals are not required.

As for #2, water soluble flux should never be left on a board. Care should be exercised to ensure that whatever machine you choose has enough power (HP, pressure, diffusion angles, wattage, CFM, etc.) to effectively clean and dry your boards.

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Dave Miller

#2097

Re: Rosin versus water soluble flux | 4 January, 2001

Mike --

Thanks for the information. It is very helpful. Is there any information available that shows what flux most companies are using? What fluxes are most companies that are producing Space, MIL-Spec, or other high-reliability assemblies using?

Thanks again.

Dave

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Dave Miller

#2098

Re: Rosin versus water soluble flux | 4 January, 2001

Mike --

Thanks again.

Dave

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