Note that many PCB rework materials, such as de-soldering braid (Solder-Wick, for example) contain flux. If you would like to minimize the solder inventory in your toolbox, I suggest purchasing solder with RMA flux.В Alternatively, I suggest using water-soluble flux for circuits that can be easily cleaned and no-clean fluxВ in situations where cleaning is difficult or impossible. Although, this is a no-clean flux, it does seem to beg to be cleaned off the board. Rather, itВ tends to smear and can be wiped off the board. Do note that the residue left behind by this flux does not harden. However, unlike regular no-clean flux, ChipQuik's no-clean, water-washable flux can be removed by rinsing the circuit board with hot (60 вњ¬) water. The residue left behind by this fluxВ isВ non-corrosive and non-conductive, and is intended to be left on the circuit boardВ after soldering. The no-clean, water-washable flux is a no-clean flux. This type of flux appears to be unique to ChipQuikВ and combines the advantages of the water soluble and no-clean flux types. Unfortunately,В no-clean flux is very difficult to remove, requiring the use of flux cleaners containing acetone, hexane, and other harshВ solvents. Some argue that even though no-clean flux does not require cleaning, the flux should be removed anyway. As the name indicates, no-clean flux is formulated such that cleaning is not necessary.

Some agitation with a soft bristle brush is usually necessary. Rosin-based flux can be removed with isopropyl or isopropanol alcohol followed by a DI water rinse.

RMA is also the most common type of rosin-based solder.

Note that the RMA solder has been formulatedВ such that the cleaning, while recommended, can be omitted. The residues from rosin-based flux are mildly corrosive and should be removed after soldering. It is available in three 'flavours': non-activated (R), mildly activated (RMA), and activated (RA), the latter being the most acidic of the three. Traditionally, flux used in electronics solder has been based on pine tree rosin. The main drawback of this flux type is that it has to be removed. Follow up with a rinse in de-ionized (DI) or steam distilled water. An ultrasonic cleaner can be used as well. Rinse the circuit under warm running water and agitate with a soft bristle brush if necessary. The main advantage of water soluble flux is that it is relativelyВ easy to remove. The main difference is the difficulty involved with removing the flux. There are three different kinds of flux available for electronics soldering. Still it is good practice to set up a small fan to blow the flux fumes away fromВ the work area while soldering. The solder used for electronics has theВ flux embedded in it and the wisp of smoke that is emitted during the soldering process is caused byВ the flux boilingВ off.В Prolonged exposure to flux fumes is a health hazard.В The health risk is likely smallerВ for the hobbyist performing soldering on occasion. The flux also changesВ the surface tension, which increases the solder's adhesionВ the metal in the solder joint. The purpose of flux is to clean the solder joint as the solder is applied, thereby allowing the solder to flow, resulting in a good and void-free solder joint. Plumbing flux is wayВ too acidic for electronics useВ and is alsoВ incredibly messy. In plumbing you apply the flux with a brush and the solder itself has no flux in it. To start at the beginning: You want to use solder intended for use in electronics вЂ“ not plumbing solder. Purifi 1ET400A / Hypex NC500 Input BufferД¬hoosing the right solder for your electronics project can be a bit daunting for many beginners and rather confusing even for seasoned veterans.В My goal with this page is to provide some clarity for you, the hobbyist, so you can make an informedВ choice.

Should i get f lux