Non-Halide Fluxes Get the Job Done Right
As a supplier of HAL fluxes to the circuit board industry, RBP Chemical Technology® researchers were very aware of the drawbacks of conventional, halide-based products. High corrosivity, frequent equipment maintenance, time-consuming solder skimming, deficiencies in solder coverage, dull solder and environmental issues all led our product development team to find a better, more reliable product for the HAL process.
The result was a highly active, non-halide based flux that has proven to eliminate the problems associated with conventional fluxes and provide these benefits:
- Reduced corrosivity to metal equipment
- Reduced solder dross
- Improved solder finish
- Health and environmental benefits
Reduced Corrosivity
Properly formulated non-halide fluxes can virtually eliminate corrosion on aluminum, stainless steel and mild steel, drastically reducing expensive downtime and maintenance. These fluxes can also improve quality, as there is less deterioration of air knives and rollers.
Example:
| Flux Activator | Weight Loss (g) | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrochloric Acid | 0.2815 | Black Film; Etched |
| Non-halide Acid | 0.0095 | No Film; Shiny |
Less Copper Corrosion in the Solder
Contact with solder and flux at high temperatures during the HAL process causes copper contamination in the solder pot, leading to grainy solder deposits and poor solder coverage. Use of non-halide fluxes can reduce the solder/copper dross waste by up to 50 percent.
Example:
| Flux Activator | Weight Loss (g) | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrochloric Acid | 0.0098 | Black Film; Etched |
| Non-halide Acid | 0.0019 | Bright and Shiny |
Improved Solder Finish
Because of its low attack on the solder, non-halide fluxes create a very bright, shiny solder finish with no hazy residue. Highly active halide-based fluxes can create a frosted appearance on the solder.
Health and Environmental Benefits
Non-halide fluxes do not contain regulated hazardous air pollutants, therefore greatly improving environmental conditions and providing health benefits for employees.
