Reflowing the solder of an area on a circuit board

Objective

To heat a solder joint to reflow the solder on a circuit board evenly

End Product

printed circuit boards

Equipment

Ambrell EASYHEAT™ 10 kW, 150-400 kHz induction heating power supply with a workhead and coil specifically designed for this application.

Materials

Soldered contacts in two areas (2 x 2 mm) on a circuit board of diesel fuel tank components

Temperature

482º F (250º C)

Frequency

240 kHz

Testing

A multiple-turn helical coil was designed for ease of loading and unloading. There were sensitive electrical components near the heating area that could not be heated, which was taken into account during process development. 
An aluminum fixture is a large heat sink to the induction field.  In order for solder alloy to wick and run the length of the overlap area, flux was applied to the solder location. In order to reach the desired temperature, the heat was applied for 2.5-3 seconds. Heating was very uniform without concern for overheating

Benefits

Repeatability: Induction offers superior repeatability when compared to alternative soldering methods like heating irons. 

Speed: Induction can offer superior speed when compared to a soldering iron.  

Part Quality: Superior repeatability means a more consistent result and enhanced product quality.

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