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keeps these equipment and machines working. You can now see
But, we will not go too deep about the different kinds of PCBS and what
they are used for. Instead, we will talk about a more fundamental issue
Solder flux is an integral part of many PCBs because it is what creates the
mechanical link between the components. It actually does good things for
your electronic devices, but it may also cause some issues if there is too
much of it.
In the sections below, we’ll talk a little bit more about the importance of
Table of Contents
As mentioned earlier, the main reason flux is there on the PCB is to create
several flux types used by PCB manufacturers and technicians, but the
On top of that, flux can also protect the metal layers from deoxidizing.
Unfortunately, if you don’t clean any flux residue off of your PCB, it may
gradually eat up the vital elements. This is what we call corrosion and it is
Cleaning flux off the PCB is a crucial part of keeping corrosion and
electrical leakage at bay. Yet, not everyone knows how to do it properly. So,
here are several simple ways to keep your PCB working properly and free
You can actually use the things lying around your house to clean the flux,
such as your old toothbrush. This method is very easy to do and basically
This is why you need to include a cleaning agent in the process. Among
the many products you can use, the isopropyl alcohol is probably the most
Simply dip the toothbrush in the cleaning agent for a few seconds and
brush the flux residue away from your PCB. Once you think that you are
done with the brushing, you can grab a paper towel or rag fabric to wipe
the area.
The issue with using isopropyl alcohol and toothbrush to remove PCB flux
is that this combination lacks the muscle power to scrap away stubborn
residue kinds, just like the one left by the no-clean flux. It means that you
may need a stronger cleaning solution if you face such flux residue.
cleaning capability. This is the explanation for why you feel that the
effective option than that good old’ combo of toothbrush and isopropyl
alcohol. Still, you need to really understand what kind of flux and PCB
components you are working with so you don’t waste your money on an
working with a lot of PCBs. It removes flux more effectively than the
allowing you to cut down your working time on each PCB. You may not
feel much time difference when working on a single PCB, but imagine if
Each flux PCB cleaning kit product on the market will have different
cleanse, and heat. This means you only need to dip the PCB in the cleaning
agent, cleanse any remaining residue by brushing, and then dry the PCB
Whatever method you choose, you must ensure that you have thoroughly
cleaned your PCB from any flux residue. Once your PCB is free of excess
flux residue, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have
leakage.
The number one mistake you can make when it comes to cleaning flux off
a PCB is trying to avoid the issue by using “no-clean” flux. Despite the
name and the popular belief, this one is actually the worst kind of flux to
clean. It will leave a stubborn and hard-to-clean white residue that may
Another thing you should remember is that a stronger flux cleaner does
not always work better for your PCB. If you choose one that is more
potent than what you need, it may actually damage the delicate metals
The Takeaway
Yes, using flux and making sure that you are using enough of it is essential
during the PCB manufacturing process. Even so, believing that it is okay to
not clean the excess flux off your PCB is a big mistake!
crucial for you to learn flux cleaning techniques as well as the tools you
device service facility, you can use the tips above to guide you in your flux
cleaning journey. Of course, to get more thorough guidance, you can ask a
pro near your area that is experienced with PCBs and their cleaners.
Related Posts:
1. No-Clean Flux vs. Water Soluble Flux: Which is the Best PCB
Cleaning Agent?
2. What is the difference between clean flux and no clean flux Off
PCB ?
https://www.raypcb.com/how-to-clean-flux-off-pcb/