109 Water Soluble Alcohol Based, Organic Acid Flux

BOW ELECTRONIC SOLDER
TECHNICAL BULLETIN
BOW #109
ORGANIC ACID, WATER SOLUBLE FLUX

Description :

BOW #109 is a high activity, organic acid (OA) foaming flux formulated for difficult-to-solder surfaces where activated rosin fluxes and less active OA fluxes cannot be used. This flux combines a unique activation system with a special no-polyol base that is compatible with all solder masks, does not leave a post-solder white residue, and is an ideal choice for high volume soldering operations.
The solderability and cleanability of BOW #109, along with excellent foaming characteristics and heat stability, provide a moderately low "solids" flux adaptable to a wide variety of board styles, sizes and thicknesses.

Benefits :

Excellent for Copper and difficult-to-solder metals including Alloy 42, Alloy 51, and Nickel alloys.
Effective on bare Copper, OSP, HASL, or plated surfaces.
May be applied in either foam or spray systems.
Solders single- and double-sided circuit boards.

Application :

Wave Soldering

To ensure optimum flux activity, a topside temperature of 190-240°F is recommended. Residues from BOW #109 are completely water-soluble and can be removed in batch or in-line aqueous cleaning systems. For best cleaning results, wash residues immediately after soldering. A water temperature of 120-140°F is recommended for optimum results. However, excellent results are routinely achieved at lower water temperatures. The organic base of BOW #109 is non-toxic and low foaming. Rinse waters are completely biodegradable. Consult local authorities for disposal regulations.

Best results can be obtained by following these guidelines:

Make certain that the PCB surfaces are free of any oil, grease, or other
impurities.

Maintain a consistent foam head by narrowing the flux chimney, or using dual
flux stones.

Add fresh flux to maintain proper flux level in flux tank.

Replace flux daily if self-contained storage is not available. Otherwise, replace
after every forty (40) hours of operation.

Regularly clean the fluxing equipment. Never leave foaming stone in flux when
pressure is not applied.

Clean fluxing stone in BOW 1000T flux thinner.

Adjust the specific gravity to the nominal level with a hydrometer. Evaporated
solvent should be replaced by the addition of BOW 1000T flux thinner.

The following Nomograph can be used to measure how much thinner needs to be added to the flux:

Physical Properties :	#1235
Specific Gravity	0.833 ±_ 0.005 @ 25°C
Density	6.95 lbs./Gallon @ 25°C
Color	Clear liquid, pale yellow
Solids Content	17%
Halide Content	4.22%
Flashpoint	53°F Tag Closed Cup Method
Recommended Topside Temperature	190-240°F
Recommended Soldering Range	200-315°C/390-615°F

Safety Precautions :

BOW 109 is a flammable product and should be handled with care and the normal precautions taken when working with chemical products.

When soldering with BOW 109, adequate exhaust ventilation should be provided. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. Always wear NIOSH approved safety equipment when working with chemicals. Store in plastic containers away from heat.

Refer to Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for additional safety information.