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Who Uses Solder Flux

geode

geode

F4 Phantom Seat Jockey
Subscriber
I am a newbie in electronics, but have learned a great deal from the folks on this site. I've always known that some people use solder flux. Yesterday, I used some flux for the first time. I have done a fair amount of recapping and restoring vintage amps and receivers but have never used it. Yesterday, while soldering back an ALps pot on my SX-1050 I used flux. I have to say it was the prettiest looking solder joints I have ever made. Is it the flux or a placebo effect. :D
 
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Many solders have the flux core already. Flux is key. Without it is like pulling taffy. I always find I like more than what's in the solder though.
I'd like to know if certain types of flux are more appropriate for electronics though. Some types might encourage future corrosion I suspect. Anyone out there that can address this? What's the best kind of flux for the diy audio human?
 
bobbyonions said:
Many solders have the flux core already. Flux is key. Without it is like pulling taffy. I always find I like more than what's in the solder though.
I'd like to know if certain types of flux are more appropriate for electronics though. Some types might encourage future corrosion I suspect. Anyone out there that can address this? What's the best kind of flux for the diy audio human?
Click to expand...

I use Sterling brand. No corrosion since (1 year) I started using it.


Steve
 
Good old rosin core solder is best for most service work. I use Kester 331 "Organic Core" for manual assembly of PC boards when I can wash the boards thoroughly after assembly. This is a very active flux that cuts through oxide/sulphide layers on older component leads and eliminates any possible soldering quality issues related to using NOS parts. It even has a detergent additive to improve washing results.
 
Which would be best for repairs and recap jobs where you don't want to wash your board after?

thanks

Eric
 
I've been using the same tin of "Nokorode" soldering paste mfg by M.W. Dunton Co for about 25 years, so you don't need a lot of it. I don't use it every time I pick up an iron, but it is good for delicate jobs or times when you don't have good access to the joint. I try to clean both pieces before soldering, but flux really helps when you cannot get in to clean up. I always keep an "acid" brush handy to clean up any residue, but I also try to only use small quantities of flux and solder - less mess to cleanup.

You can often avoid the need for using flux by pre-tinning the wires so that both sides of the joint are "fresh".
 
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