Indium Corporation VOC-Free Wave Flux 1072

Wave soldering is still preferred for many kinds of assembly operations, and often complements reflow assembly. Wave soldering is particularly suited to continuous production. Changes to board sizes and configurations are readily accommodated; however, operators need to be skilled and processes optimized to realize the most cost effective wave soldering production output. Modern wave solder machines have become very user-friendly. They are used to solder a wide variety of assemblies, including mixed-technology boards. Full enclosures with microprocessors control inert atmospheres for improved low-dross soldering. Wave solder production lines include fluxing, preheating, soldering, and a conveyor system to transport the circuit assembly through the process. Cleaning and drying can also be added to the soldering system. Flux is commonly applied by a spray, foam, or wave process. Fluxes (with different activity levels) are available in no-clean, water-washable, and VOC-Free varieties. The solder is melted in a solder pot and pumped to produce a "wave." The board is conveyed over the flux, preheat, and solder wave stations to complete the joints. Although 63Sn is the commonly used alloy for wave soldering, Pb-free alloys are also available. The molten solder thermodynamics and fluid mechanic characteristics contribute to the wetting of the metal surfaces, provide through-hole fill, and form reliable solder joints.