Hello Technet! We are in the process of implementing a no-clean/low-residue process in a Class 3, High Reliabiity, manufacturing process. Obviously I have some soul searching questions. First, I see the need to clean. Hopefully with a low cost cleaning process. Why? If all the no-clean process is in place, general statement, and parts come in that cause failure after cleanliness testing, then, "how do the boards get cleaned?" Yes, one should have their suppliers online, but, this can be a cruel world sometimes and scrapping them isn't an option. Second, test probes at Incircuit test. Is there a no-clean flux that can be probed without having to replace test probes? Many suppliers claim their no-clean is probeable, but, there is a significant cost because of the residues left on the probes. This can get very expensive. Our existing Incircuit test process with cleaned boards is very inexpensive. If there is a no-clean flux out there, would the users be willing to share the brand name, or even entertain a benchmarking visit? Low-residue fluxes/pastes could be used, but, I have heard this makes a nitrogen process necessary. Nitrogen processes can also be very expensive. Can a low-residue process be used without nitrogen if the components/boards are solderable (solderability good)? Third, how many have "skunk works"? By this I mean, "how many have cleaners in the back room for those problem child boards/processes/products? We have some special products that must be cleaned...i.e...space, high voltabe power supplies, etc. Need some help/suggestions/advice (please keep it clean so to speak). Thanks. I see the need to have a cleaning operation somewhere inhouse and possibly in the production process. Looking at costs: First, it would seem that costs at Incircuit would get pretty salty if you had to continually change/clean test probes. Second, to use a low-residue flux/paste nitrogen requirements can off set savings by going to a low-residue technology. Third, I can't scrap boards if they fail cleanliness because a supplier forgot to clean them. We would like very much to transition to a no-clean/low-residue technology (no-clean or low-residue). I am not a against this technology, so please don't misunderstand this e:mail. I feel that no-clean may not really mean "no-clean". I know these subjects have been on the TechNet before, but could we resurrect them once again? Thanks for listening, need some feedback. RON [log in to unmask] *************************************************************************** * TechNet mail list is provided as a service by IPC using SmartList v3.05 * *************************************************************************** * To subscribe/unsubscribe send a message <to: [log in to unmask]> * * with <subject: subscribe/unsubscribe> and no text in the body. * *************************************************************************** * If you are having a problem with the IPC TechNet forum please contact * * Dmitriy Sklyar at 847-509-9700 ext. 311 or email at [log in to unmask] * ***************************************************************************