ALPHA® EF-6850HF
No-Clean Wave Soldering Flux

PREPARATION: In order to maintain consistent soldering performance and electrical reliability, it is important to begin the process with circuit boards and components that meet established requirements for solderability and ionic cleanliness. It is suggested that assemblers establish specifications on these items with their suppliers and that suppliers provide Certificates of Analysis with shipments and/or assemblers perform incoming inspection. A common specification for the ionic cleanliness of incoming boards and components is 10 µg/in² maximum, as measured by an Omegameter with heated solution.

Care should be taken in handling the circuit boards throughout the process. Boards should always be held at the edges. The use of clean, lint-free gloves is also recommended.

Conveyors, fingers and pallets should be cleaned regularly to reduce the build-up of flux residues. ALPHA AutoClean 40 cleaner is recommended for this process.

FLUX APPLICATION: ALPHA EF-6850HF can be applied by spray, foam or wave application. A uniform coating of flux is essential to successful soldering. When applying flux, it is important to run a series of tests to ensure that the flux is being applied uniformly, that it is penetrating from top to bottom of the board on all holes to be soldered and to make sure that excessive amounts of flux are not being applied.

FLUX SOLIDS CONTROL: If rotary drum spray fluxing, the flux solids will need to be controlled via thinner addition. For measuring the solids content, Alpha's Flux Solids Control Kit #3, a digital titrator, is suggested. Request Alpha's Technical Bulletin SM-458 for details on the kit and titration procedure. When operating a rotary drum fluxer continuously, the acid number should be checked every eight hours. Over time, debris and contaminants will accumulate in recirculating type flux applicators. For consistent soldering performance, dispose of spent flux every 40 hours of operation. After emptying the flux, the reservoir should be thoroughly cleaned with IPA.

RESIDUE REMOVAL: ALPHA EF-6850HF is a no-clean flux and the residues are designed to be left on the board. If desired, flux residues can be removed with Alpha 2110 saponifier cleaner and with other commercially available solvent cleaners and saponifier cleaners.

Consult the SDS for all safety information. The most recent version of the SDS is available from alphaassembly.com. Inhalation of the volatilized flux activator fumes, which are generated at soldering temperatures, may cause headaches, dizziness and nausea. Suitable fume extraction equipment should be used to remove the flux from the work area. An exhaust at the exit end of the wave solder machine may also be needed to completely capture the fumes. Observe precautions during handling and use. Suitable protective clothing should be worn to prevent the material from coming in contact with skin and eyes.