[sdiy] solder types

[John Blacet]

One advantage of a Kester 331 type "water" clean solder for the kit
builder is that it makes for a easy job inspecting your work after it is
cleaned up. It also results in a beautiful looking board!

This type of solder flux HAS to be cleaned as it has a slightly acidic
base which will "dull" the solder joints a bit if left on too long. Some
folks say clean every three hours. I would definitely clean if it is
going to be overnight. Finish off the cleaning job with some distilled
or deionized water from a spray bottle.

The Kester 245 (No clean) is used for joints where water cleaning is not
practical such as front panel pots, jacks. We use it for the main on
board pots also. Trimmers seem to be fine with the 331. No clean flux is
designed to be left on the parts permanently.

Hardly anyone in the "real" electronics assembly world uses rosin core
solders anymore.

Regards,
-----------------------------
John Blacet
Blacet Research
http://www.blacet.com