Resource Library
The cleaning strength of a PCB cleaner is frequently measured using an industry benchmark called the Kauri Butanol (Kb) value. A higher Kb value is usually better and means the cleaner is more aggressive. But there are trade-offs. For instance, stronger solvents can have compatibility problems with plastics, coatings, inks and other components. So, smart…
PCBs (printed circuit boards) are subjected to many harsh environmental conditions. This includes extreme temperatures, strong chemicals, corrosive salts, dust and moisture. Therefore, encapsulating them with a protective conformal coating makes sense. Conformal coatings keep harmful elements from touching the delicate components and degrading the performance of the boards. However, for optimum PCB longevity, functionality…
MicroCare Has Better, Safer IPA Alternative CleanersDue to the COVID-19 outbreak, IPA for electronics cleaning is in very short supply. Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) alternative cleaners are in high demand. It is becoming a are commodity since since everyone from the medical industry to electronics manufacturers is using IPA for cleaning. Many electronics manufacturers are experiencing…
Benchtop cleaning is an important step in the assembly of printed circuit boards. Whether it be during initial manufacture or during post-reflow assembly, it is critical that you properly clean PCBs before moving on to the next step in the manufacturing process. Before shipping brand-new or repaired circuit boards out the door, manufacturers need to…
An early PCB cleaning plan helps produce better boards. Good PCB (printed circuit board) design practices are critical in order to deliver a board that performs as intended. When designing a PCB, there are many factors an engineer must consider. Everything from properly orienting the components on the PCB to carefully routing the signal traces…
Conformal coatings are very important for PCBs that operate in a harsh environment. They are used on electronics that are near the ocean, in harsh weather, in dusty cities and dirty factories. For example, the PCBs that control gas station pumps and traffic lights are almost always coated to help them endure their harsh environment.…