by DrPR » Sat Mar 06, 2021 11:43 pm
Joachim.
There are several types of flux, and each requires a different cleaner/solvent.
I prefer liquid water soluble fluxes, especially the citrus based fluxes (weak citric acid). They smell like orange juice, and can be cleaned up with water and a tooth brush. These fluxes are applied with a small brush and flow between the pieces, dissolving oxidation, leaving a clean surface. When the flux is heated it evaporates, and in the process draws the liquid solder into the joint, producing a good bond. Water soluble fluxes are not flammable and do not produce toxic vapors.
Avoid using the acid core solders or strong acid flux. They can be cleaned up with water but can also cause corrosion if you don't get them all washed off.
If you use a resin flux acetone is the best solvent, but it is extremely flammable and should be used outdoors or in a well ventilated spark free fume hood. Isopropyl alcohol (Isopropanol or rubbing alcohol) can be used but it isn't quite as good a solvent for resin as acetone. Isopropanol is also flammable, but not as explosive as acetone. You can also use petroleum ether (hexane) or paint thinner, but these are also flammable and somewhat toxic. Turpentine can also be used - just about any organic solvent. They are all flammable and should not be inhaled if you want to keep all your brain cells.
Phil
Joachim.
There are several types of flux, and each requires a different cleaner/solvent.
I prefer liquid water soluble fluxes, especially the citrus based fluxes (weak citric acid). They smell like orange juice, and can be cleaned up with water and a tooth brush. These fluxes are applied with a small brush and flow between the pieces, dissolving oxidation, leaving a clean surface. When the flux is heated it evaporates, and in the process draws the liquid solder into the joint, producing a good bond. Water soluble fluxes are not flammable and do not produce toxic vapors.
Avoid using the acid core solders or strong acid flux. They can be cleaned up with water but can also cause corrosion if you don't get them all washed off.
If you use a resin flux acetone is the best solvent, but it is extremely flammable and should be used outdoors or in a well ventilated spark free fume hood. Isopropyl alcohol (Isopropanol or rubbing alcohol) can be used but it isn't quite as good a solvent for resin as acetone. Isopropanol is also flammable, but not as explosive as acetone. You can also use petroleum ether (hexane) or paint thinner, but these are also flammable and somewhat toxic. Turpentine can also be used - just about any organic solvent. They are all flammable and should not be inhaled if you want to keep all your brain cells.
Phil