The primary function is to prevent solder deposition to preselected sites during the machine(wave)soldering operation. These areas can be discrete components that require post hand soldering, dimensional tolerance locations that can not have solder build up, hardware sites; selective plated areas like gold key pads, connectors, switches etc. It can also be used for such things as component tack down and as a containment barrier to prevent solder from running to adjacent areas. Regards Michael Barmuta Staff Engineer Fluke Corp. Everett WA 425-356-6076 -----Original Message----- From: S. Miller [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2000 9:39 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [TN] Functional Intent of Peelable Soldermask To All, I have been introduced to several projects in Europe, all requiring the application of peelable soldermask. Given that this is a disposable process (peelable soldermask is removed after PCBA), why bother with it at all? What function does it serve? Is really required? Any and all feedback on this issue would be truly appreciated. Regards, ############################################################## TechNet Mail List provided as a free service by IPC using LISTSERV 1.8c ############################################################## To subscribe/unsubscribe, send a message to [log in to unmask] with following text in the body: To subscribe: SUBSCRIBE TECHNET <your full name> To unsubscribe: SIGNOFF TECHNET ############################################################## Please visit IPC web site (http://www.ipc.org/html/forum.htm) for additional information. If you need assistance - contact Keach Sasamori at [log in to unmask] or 847-509-9700 ext.5315 ############################################################## ############################################################## TechNet Mail List provided as a free service by IPC using LISTSERV 1.8c ############################################################## To subscribe/unsubscribe, send a message to [log in to unmask] with following text in the body: To subscribe: SUBSCRIBE TECHNET <your full name> To unsubscribe: SIGNOFF TECHNET ############################################################## Please visit IPC web site (http://www.ipc.org/html/forum.htm) for additional information. If you need assistance - contact Keach Sasamori at [log in to unmask] or 847-509-9700 ext.5315 ##############################################################