Semi-aqueous cleaning: an alternative to halogenated solvents

Terpene-based formulations have been shown to be the only viable substitutes for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other halogenated solvents in electronic defluxing applications. Terpene-based cleaners are safe for employees and the environment, they are effective for conventional and surface-mount technology, and they are cost competitive with CFCs. High-performance terpene cleaners have beep proven in commercial defluxing operations for more than three years, and they are available in adequate quantities to meet the requirements of the industry. Cleaning machines suitable for use with terpenes are available from most of the major equipment manufacturers, and a number of other equipment makers are expected to introduce terpene-compatible machines in the near future. On the basis of their performance, economics, and environmental attributes, it is reasonable to expect terpene-based products to capture a significant share of printed wiring assembly (PWA) (especially SMT, or surface-mount technology) cleaning capacity in the years to come