Do you desolder your SMD-components during selective soldering?

How to minimize the risk of desoldering SMD-components?

If this is the case, the heat input for the solder joints of the SMD-components positioned in the proximity of the THT component is usually too high. These SMD-components must be protected from excessive heat with a mask, unless a layout adjustment of the assembly is possible. Especially with high packing densities and increasing miniaturization, desoldering can be a challenge.

What to consider when using a solder mask?

However, the use of solder masks requires that some factors be taken into account already during the design of the PCB:

Ensure your THT solder joint is surrounded with at least 1.5 mm space and that high components are not positioned in the immediate vicinity. With the optimal solder mask, you can achieve a process window with maximum reproducibility. However, if you have unchangeable and narrow spaces, please do not hesitate to contact us, because we have a wealth of experience and special solutions for various problems.

Which solder mask types are available ?

There are many different types of solder masks for selective soldering. These can be manufactured in different dimensions and from different materials, additional these masks can also be used for large wave soldering. There are specific soldering masks for the selective soldering process only, that perform in combination with the right material and the appropriate soldering nozzle. In addition, masks can also be used for laser and induction soldering as well as piston soldering. In this case, they also protect the PCBA and its surroundings from reflections as well as solder and flux splashes.

For further information and your individual solder mask do not hesitate to contact us.