Hi Blue Smurf!
        We have been using the Omega wave on two pieces of equipment. You 
     will find both opinion camps regarding its utility. After running 
     various DOE's and just listening to the operators observations, I 
     believe that the Omega wave does two things for wave soldered 
     assemblies: a) it allows better penetration of solder into thru holes 
     and vias by applying a vertical or z axis force component to the 
     solder wave; 2) it helps with design layouts that cause component 
     shadowing. Too much Omega wave has resulted in icicles and solder 
     balls. The Omega wave isn't a silver bullet - it won't solve bad 
     design or poor process parameters. The work I have done is all 
     internal and I can't release it but would be happy to discuss things 
     in generic terms  over the phone.
     
     
     Dave Hillman
     Rockwell Collins
     319-395-1615
     [log in to unmask]


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: OMEGA WAVE
Author:  [log in to unmask] at ccmgw1
Date:    5/21/96 5:01 PM


     
GREETING FORM BLUE SMURF
     
Question:
What is the main function(s) of "OMEGA wave" in wave soldering?
     
A.   Eliminate excessive solder,
B.   Product extra thrust in the entrance region, 
C.   Reduce air trapped under board
D.   All of the above
E.   Other
     
Question:
Is there any paper, data, or DOE outthere to backup these findings?
     
Thanks for your response