Ultrasonic Cleaning of PCBs
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If you have access to an Ultrasonic Cleaner, use it to remove all flux residue from your finished PCBs. (follow the ultrasonic cleaner directions)
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3L Ultrasonic Cleaning Machines cost about $90.00 to $120.00.
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A clean PCB is a must for you to double check all your solder connections.
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I use ~500ml of 50-75% IPA in a Ziploc bag, insert into the machine’s water bath.
This reduces the amount of solution needed, it can be recovered and used multiple times. -
Follow the warnings in your ultrasonic machine user manual.
Do not use flammable liquids as this can be a fire hazard ! -
The water bath is about 50 degrees Celsius; the machine is filled two thirds full.
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Eight minutes is sufficient for cleaning flux from PCBs.
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After cleaning, rinse the PCBs in warm water and blow dry.
Note:
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Components like: switches, potentiometers, motors, unsealed relays, etc. should be soldered onto the PCB after the ultrasonic cleaning process.
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For components like sensors speakers etc. read the data sheet to see if there are issues if they are placed into an ultrasonic cleaner.
