Electronic Assembly Cleaning Basics – Manual Concentration Monitoring

What would the best monitoring method for a batch cleaning process be?
The best method is the one that fits the type of chemical you are using. For hydrophobic type, the split kit is better and for hydrophilic, the refractive index would be better. I have seen both types of chemicals running in a batch machine, so you can tell the exact problem that you’re having and will be able to identify the right methods for your particular process.

Would the monitoring method change if you change your washing equipment or machine?
No. For example, if you happen to remove your equipment and you were using a batch machine then change it to an inline machine but your chemical remains the same, you don’t have to worry about changing the method. The method is determined by the type of chemical that you’re using and not by the type of equipment per say.

How often would you recommend I check my process concentration if I’m running an inline spray washing machine?
It depends on the exact type of inline that you are running. Every machine will have a certain consumption and it depends on the design of the machine. You can contact us later and we can check your process and we will give you an exact answer about it. Usually for inlines, we recommend from 3-4 hours to check the concentration because it varies a lot with an inline, but we can check that out later for your specific process.

Do you suggest we get a sampling port installed to help remove the sample from the machine?
Yes, it is very important to have an easy way to access the sample from the machine and usually, if you’re using a split chemical, then you need to make sure that the chemical is completely mixed so the sample port should be installed from one of the spray bars so that we can take a very well mixed sample and make the test.

What would you say is the most accurate method from the three you’ve presented?
All of them are accurate from an operational standpoint, they just use different chemical and physical properties from the product that you are using. Titration is the most precise one since it involves chemically measuring the presence of components of the formula, but it is not suitable for being in the production floor because it requires some skills. You can easily get distracted but the other two methods are very precise and can control your process without a problem. So, all of them are good for controlling the process.