We have lots of residual inventory with flux-cored solder that is many years
old.  It does not have an expiration date (indefinite shelf life).  The
"plastic" flux core does not seem to degrade in its inert lead sheath.
Liquid flux, on the other hand has a shelf life, but that is driven by the
volatile solvent content.  Have no idea why flux-cored solder would expire
except to make you want to buy more sooner.

The flux-cored solder should be good until used up.

> Rainer G. Blomberg
> Honeywell -Space Systems Clearwater
> Staff Production Engineer
(727) 539-5534



-----Original Message-----
From: TechNet [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Gregg A. Owens
Sent: Thursday, May 05, 2005 3:30 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [TN] Flux Cored Solder Shelf Life

TechNetters:

A student of mine has asked, what is the shelf life of flux cored solder?

In reviewing J-STD-001 and J-STD-004 I can't find any specific guidance or
requirements from the Standards. I know newer rolls of solder (depending
upon the manufacturer) have date codes and expiration dates.

However, they have a wire solder spool still being used today that was
entered into their HazMat system in 1998 (no actual record of the precise
date of manufacture). The wire spool is removed from their HazMat system
when needed to uncontrolled/undocumented working environments within their
facility. Since the standards don't specify a shelf life, what is considered
best industry practices or is there a Standard dealing with this issue?

Thanks for your responses.

Gregg A. Owens
Master IPC Trainer
Executive Director
Manufacturing Technology Training Center, Inc.
Mira Loma, CA 91752 USA
www.mttc-inc.com


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