Do You Need Separate Flux with Rosin Core Solder?

When you're using rosin flux core solder, it usually has enough flux to solder most electronics. But sometimes it's helpful to add more flux, like when you're working with big, oxidized surfaces or you're doing rework on complicated assemblies. If you know what flux does and what kinds there are, you can make better choices and get stronger, more reliable solder joints.

What is Flux and How Does It Work?

The Role of Flux in Soldering

Flux is like a cleaning agent that you use when you're soldering. It gets rid of all the crud and junk on the metal surfaces so that you can get a good connection. When you heat up metal, it oxidizes, and that can stop the solder from sticking. Flux cleans the metal surfaces so that the solder sticks better.

Types of Flux

There are several types of flux used in soldering, each with specific characteristics and applications:

Type of FluxCharacteristicsCommon Applications
Rosin FluxNon-corrosive, mild, often used in electronics.PCB assembly, wire soldering.
No-Clean FluxMinimal residue, does not require cleaning.Surface-mount technology (SMT).
Water-Soluble FluxStrong cleaning action, requires cleaning after use.Critical electronic applications.
Acid FluxAggressive cleaning, highly corrosive, not for electronics.Plumbing, metal repair.
What is Flux and How Does It Work?

What is Rosin Core Solder and How Does It Work?

Composition of Rosin Core Solder

Rosin core solder is made up of a metal alloy (usually tin and lead, or tin and silver) with a core that contains rosin flux. When the solder melts, the flux is released and cleans the surfaces to create a strong bond.

Advantages of Rosin Core Solder

Rosin core solder is particularly favored in electronics for its ease of use and effectiveness. The main advantages include:

What is Rosin Core Solder and How Does It Work?

Do You Always Need Additional Flux?

When Additional Flux May Not Be Necessary

For many electronics applications, the flux within rosin core solder is sufficient. Here’s why:

Scenarios Where Additional Flux is Beneficial

However, there are situations where adding extra flux can improve the soldering process:

Do You Always Need Additional Flux?

Rosin Core vs. Other Types of Flux: What’s the Difference?

Comparison of Flux Types

It’s important to understand the differences between rosin flux and other types of flux to decide whether additional flux is necessary. Here’s a table comparing the most commonly used fluxes in electronics:

Flux TypeBenefitsDrawbacks
Rosin FluxSafe for electronics, no cleaning required.Not as effective on heavily oxidized metals.
No-Clean FluxLeaves minimal residue, easy to use.Residue might still affect sensitive circuits.
Water-Soluble FluxStrong cleaning action, excellent for critical joints.Requires thorough cleaning to prevent corrosion.
Acid FluxEffective for non-electronics applications.Highly corrosive, unsuitable for electronics.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get in touch

Where Are We?

Factory Address

Industrial Park, No. 438, Shajing Donghuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Head Office Address

Floor 4, Zhihui Creative Building, No.2005 Xihuan Road, Shajing, Baoan District, Shenzhen, China

HK Office Address

ROOM A1-13,FLOOR 3,YEE LIM INDUSTRIAL CENTRE 2-28 KWAI LOK STREET, KWAI CHUNG HK,CHINA

Let's Talk

Phone : +86 400 878 3488

Send Us A Message

The more detailed you fill out, the faster we can move to the next step.

Microchip Removal