T
ECHNICAL
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ATA
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HEET
CATEGORY:
NAME:
NO-CLEAN LIQUID FLUX
291AX
FEATURES
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IDEAL FOR LEAD TINNING
AQUEOUS CLEAN WITH SAPONIFIER
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GOOD FOR COMPONENT OR PCB REWORK
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CAN BE BRUSHED, SPRAYED, DIPPED, OR FOAMED
* Passes BELLCORE and IPC, product testing results available upon request
DESCRIPTION
NC 291AX
is a formulated blend of synthetic resins, glycol-ethers, and alcohol. Designed specifically for the
implementation of a no-clean process, NC 291AX is easily dispensed, brushed, or it can be used as a dipping flux,
foamed, or sprayed for wave solder applications. Fully compatible with all chemistries, 291AX is ideal for lead
tinning, PWB or component rework, or other soldering applications where the flux will see a complete thermal
cycle. This material has been utilized on various assemblies with RF designs without cleaning; however, the
compatibility of flux residues on RF assemblies is strongly dependent upon circuitry design.
FLUX COMPOSITION
FLUX DENSITY
.795
±
.01
SOLIDS CONTENT
8%
ACID VALUE
7.4 +- 0.6
HANDLING
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NC 291AX has an unopened shelf life of 1 year when stored at room temperature.
Do not store near fire or flame. Keep away from sunlight as it may degrade product.
NC 291AX is shipped ready-to-use, no mixing necessary.
Do not mix used and unused chemical in the same container. Reseal any opened containers.
FLUX APPLICATION
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When being used for rework, application should be limited to the area being worked. AIM Flux Dispensers or a
cotton swab are recommended for localized flux application.
For most tinning operations, the component lead should be immersed into the flux to a depth of approximately
50% of the desired solder flow in order to prevent excessive flux application.
For spray fluxing applications, NC 291AX is ready to use directly from its container. No thinning is required.
When spray fluxing, it is imperative that proper flux coverage and uniformity be achieved and maintained. A dry
flux coating of 500 to 1500 micrograms per square inch is recommended as a starting point.
When foam fluxing, air stones should be supplied with compressed air, free of oil and moisture. Adjust foam
head to achieve a uniform distribution of small bubbles for optimum flux coverage.
During foaming applications it is periodically necessary to add flux thinner to replace that which is lost through
evaporation. AIM Common Flux Thinner is recommended.
04.22.04
Manufacturing and Distribution Worldwide
Americas +1-401-463-5605
•
Europe +44-1737-222-258
•
Asia-Pacific +852-2649-7183
•
info@aimsolder.com
•
www.aimsolder.com
PROCESS CONTROL
Specific gravity should be monitored and controlled either with automated equipment or manually with a
hydrometer for foam fluxing operations. Specific gravity should be maintained at .80
±
.01 for optimum
performance. Dump and refill flux pot with fresh flux at least once per week when used daily.
For spray flux applications, ensure that proper coverage of pwb is maintained.
THERMAL PROFILE
0:00
RATE of RISE
2-3 ºC / SEC MAX
PROGRESS THROUGH
66°C - 77°C
( 150 - 170ºF )
≤
40 SECONDS
1:00.0
PCB TOP SIDE TEMP
87°C - 115°C
( 190ºF - 240ºF )
JUST BEFORE WAVE
COOLDOWN
≤
4ºC
NOTE:
BOTTOM SIDE TEMPERATURE SHOULD BE BETWEEN 250° - 310°F, ( 121° - 154°C )
FLUX TECH-TIPS
PROBLEM
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POTENTIAL CAUSE
INSUFFICIENT FLUX, EXCESSIVE PRE-HEAT, EXCESS CONVEYOR SPEED, SOLDER CONTAMINATION
LOW PREHEAT TEMPERATURE, EXCESS FLUX
EXCESS FLUX, FLUX CONTAMINATION, SOLDER CONTAMINATION
SOLDER OXIDATION, BOARD/COMPONENT CONTAMINATION, EXCESSIVE HEAT
BRIDGING:
SOLDER BALLS:
WHITE RESIDUE:
DISCOLORED JOINT:
CLEANING
NC 291AX flux can be cleaned, if necessary, with saponified tap water. AIMTERGE 520. Deionized water is
recommended for the final rinse. A temperature of 100° - 150°F is sufficient for removing any residues. An in-line
or other pressurized spray cleaning system is suggested, but is not required.
PACKAGING
NC 291AX is available in flux pen dispensers, 8oz spray bottles, 1 and 5 gallon containers, and 55 gallon drums.
SAFETY
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Use with adequate ventilation and proper personal protective equipment.
Refer to the accompanying
Material Safety Data Sheet
for any specific emergency information.
Do not dispose of any lead-containing materials in non-approved containers.
Information contained herein is based on data considered accurate and is offered at no charge. No warranty is expressed or implied regarding the accuracy of this data. Liability is expressly disclaimed for any loss or injury
arising out of the use of this information or the use of any materials designated.
04.22.04
Manufacturing and Distribution Worldwide
Americas +1-401-463-5605
•
Europe +44-1737-222-258
•
Asia-Pacific +852-2649-7183
•
info@aimsolder.com
•
www.aimsolder.com