Choosing the Right Solder Flux for Electronics

If you understand the world of modern electronics, you must be aware that all the connections between electronic components are achieved through soldering. One important material that is imperatively required in the process of soldering is the flux. Flux is a chemical agent which is responsible for reducing all oxidizing agents (more aptly put, these oxidizing agents are actually impurities) before the soldering core is applied. Flux helps to clean the surface for achievement of a perfect connection. This article will provide a guide on how you can choose the right solder flux for electronics.

Depending on the kind of application, different kinds of flux are required to fulfil connections for different types of surfaces and applications and your choice will eventually be dependent on the end product you wish to create. Here is a step-by-step guide for the same:

• Know what a flux does – Before selecting a flux for your solder job, it is absolutely essential to know what it does to the components that it touches. A flux has three main functions:
• Chemical – A flux chemically cleans the surfaces to be soldered. It also forms a protective coating over the clean surface to prevent it from getting re-oxidized.
• Thermal – A good flux assists the heat from the source to get transferred properly to the surfaces being soldered together. It aids the connection being made between different components. However, excessive application of flux and prolonged exposure to heat may result in a failed connection.
• Physical – One of the functions of a flux is to remove surface metal oxides.
• Know what you are doing – Flux used for soldering, welding and brazing are different. Find out what kind of a task you have taken up. Soldering usually employs usage of an alloy of tin combined with lead, bismuth, indium and antimony. You would want a flux that works best with such an alloy.

Find out your category – Flux employed for various purposes is different in composition, depending upon the kind of surfaces it will come in contact with. If you are printing circuit boards and assembling electronics, then you would want a flux which does not spread and corrode your circuitry. This kind of flux needs to be like a thick paste which can be applied with precision. If you are a manufacturer and require flux for industrial purposes, you would need a flux that is workable at extreme temperatures. The kind of consistency and precision required from your flux would be different.

It is not difficult to select a type of flux for a particular job. Staying informed about the points listed above should be enough information for you to get started. If you still happen to be confused about the type of flux to use, you can search online for websites that provide details of each and every kind of flux available in the market.

About The Author:

Alpha Assembly Solutions is a premier company engaged in the development and manufacture of high quality electronics assembly materials. Since the year of its inception, way back in 1872, the company has played its role on the frontline of innovation, bringing many first-to-market products to the fore thereby, creating a premier niche for itself in the market.

Alpha Assembly Solutions Inc. is the global leader in the development, manufacturing and sales of innovative specialty materials used in a wide range of industry segments, including electronics assembly, power electronics, die attach, LED lighting.