In a world where miniaturization and high precision are fundamental in electronic manufacturing, cleaning processes have evolved from a secondary step to a crucial factor in product quality and reliability. Even the smallest accumulation of residues can affect process accuracy, reduce equipment lifespan, and compromise the integrity of electronic assemblies.

Below, we explore essential cleaning processes that should be implemented in an SMT line to ensure optimal performance and maximum production quality.

Cleaning Processes for Solder Paste Printers (Screen Printer)

Stencil, Misprint, and Squeegee Cleaning

Perfectly clean stencils and squeegees are fundamental requirements to ensure quality in SMT production. 

Poorly cleaned stencils with solder paste and SMD adhesive residues cause defective preprints, requiring costly misprint cleaning and prolonging the overall process. 

To avoid these issues, we recommend using:

• Cleaning systems such as: Injet 388 CRD, Injet 388 twin CRD “Sausage dog” or  Injet 3179 CRD “BigBoard”
• Cleaning agents such as: Decotron 250, Decotron 281, Decotron EFD1 or Decotron 250/25. 
• Manual cleaning with: Stencil Cleaner 11.

Under-Stencil Cleaning 

Beyond performing a thorough mechanical cleaning of the stencil, it is essential to carefully clean the underside of the stencil directly within the machine. This step is crucial, as proper cleaning in this area not only significantly improves print quality but also reduces solder paste consumption and ensures consistent, precise results.

To maintain optimal performance of screen printers, it is essential to use specialized cleaning liquids, whether water- or alcohol-based, to effectively remove any residues and keep the printing area in ideal condition.

Recommended products for this type of cleaning include Proton 29 and Decotron 23. 

Cleaning Processes for Maintenance

General equipment maintenance is part of the production process. Soldering frames, masks, filters, radiators, and other components must be cleaned regularly to prevent machine damage, which could lead to manufacturing downtime. Removing flux residues and other contaminants ensures reliable production and smooth operation.

Recommended products for this process include: 

• Cleaning systems such as: Injet 888 CRD 1F, AirJet 4127 CRD, AirJet 486 CRD or AirJet 594 CRD – SAC  
• Cleaning agents such as: Decotron T300SA or Decotron T332 
• Manual cleaning with: Reflow Cleaner 88, Reflow Cleaner 94 or Decotron M50. 

Cleaning Processes for Conformal Coating 

Proper cleaning of machine parts and conformal coating pallets allows them to be returned to the process without compromising their functionality or reliability, helping save costs by reusing coated parts such as pallets or frames.

Recommended products for this type of cleaning include 

• Cleaning systems such as: Injet 888 CRD 1F, AirJet 486 CRD or Sonix 355 CRRD 
• Cleaning agents such as: Decotron EFD1, Proton 69 or Proton 707

Other Cleaning Processes to Optimize Your SMT Line. 

• ESD Magazine and PCBA Tray Cleaning: Removes dust, grease, oil, paste, adhesive, and flux to prevent secondary contamination of sensitive components. Recommended solutions include the Injet 888 CRD 1F cleaning system and cleaning agents like Decotron 239, Decotron T300SA and Proton 29.
• Flux Residue Removal on PCBAs: Complete surface cleaning of PCBAs after component placement, eliminating flux residues, chemicals, and other harmful substances. Recommended products for this process include cleaning systems like InJet 388 CRRD 1PR “Combo”, InJet 388 TWIN CRRD “Sausage Dog”, InJet 388 DOUBLE TRIPLE CRRD 1PR, InJet 388 CRD 2PR, and/or cleaning agents like Decotron CP381, Decotron 351S and Decotron 411A.
• Manual Cleaning of Repaired PCBAs: Use of Flux Remover 4 spray to eliminate flux residues, paste, and other impurities after a repair, ensuring optimal performance of the final product. 

Implementing proper cleaning at every stage of the SMT production process is key to ensuring quality, reducing costs, and optimizing processes. DCT Cleaning provides the perfect solution for every need, eliminating contaminants and improving equipment performance. 

Contact us to schedule a visit from a specialist who will evaluate your processes and recommend the best cleaning solution. Investing in cleaning protects your products and strengthens your competitiveness in the electronics industry.