V U L C A N Refractories Ltd
Infra-Red Emitters Applications
Solder Reflow
Vulcatherm's Ceramic Infra-Red Heaters are used in Reflow Machinery in the production of surface mounted circuit boards
Accurate temperature control is required throughout the process to enable the solder to be melted without damaging the components
Initially the component is fixed into position with adhesive before entering the four zone reflow unit. In the first zone the solder paste is heated to release solvent used in printing the circuits. The second zone causes the flux to flow. The third and fourth zones increase the temperature progressively to 210°C to 220°C at which temperature reflow occurs
Temperature control is achieved utilising embedded thermocouples within the heaters, monitored and controlled by computer software enabling accurate control to be achieved
The programme allows changes in conveyor speed, zone temperature and the rate of temperature change to be adjusted
Even temperature distribution and the non-colour selectivity of the emitters- provides enhanced manufacturing quality, reducing rework and scrap to a minimum