Printed Circuit Board Cleaning

Cleaning/ degreasing application.

Removal of flux and other contaminants on printed circuit boards.

Current Problem.

The industry standard for PCB cleaning was 1,1,1 – trichloroethane (TCA). EPA regulations no longer permit the manufacture of TCA due to its ozone depleting properties. There are also significant concerns with the use of TCA that involve toxicity and workers safety. TCA contains known carcinogens. It is listed on the SARA Title III, Section 313 toxic chemicals list. Regulatory administrative expense for TCA is very high.

BioChem solution.

BioChem’s Bio T 200A full strength, low-residue formula is an ideal replacement for 1,1,1 trichloroethane in this cleaning application. Bio T 200A is a non-ozone depleting solvent. It is biodegradable, non-toxic, non-corrosive and free of petroleum distillates and chlorinated solvents. It provides the highest level of cleaning strength, and is safe for workers and the environment.

Bio T 200A is great for electrical cleaning applications due to its low conductivity (48,000 volts/cm). You will use less chemicals due to Bio T 200A’s low evaporation rate. And disposal concerns are minimized because Bio T 200A can be filtered and reused.

Bio T 200A can be used as a spray or immersion with ultrasonics or other forms of agitation. The following process is typically used in PCB cleaning:

• PCB’s are dipped in an immersion bath of Bio T 200A along a conveyor belt.
• Bio T 200A will remove all flux, grease, oil and fingerprints.
• After being immersed in the 200A, PCB’s can be sent to an isopropyl alcohol (IPA) rinse to remove any residue left behind.
• IPA rinse will decrease the drying time of the PCB’s.
• After rinsing, forced air or heat can be used to ensure drying of the product.