WATER-BASED CLEANERS VS. IPA
Techspray’s new water-based cleaner line is a safe, environmentally friendly, and RoHS compliant alternative to Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) for use in printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. IPA is the most common cleaner for this application because it is effective and relatively inexpensive, but it poses safety and regulatory challenges to manufacturers.
 
WATER-BASED SMT STENCIL CLEANER & OVEN CLEANER
Techspray’s Water-Based SMT Stencil Cleaner effectively removes all types of solder paste (e.g. R, RMA, aqueous) and uncured adhesive from screens, misprinted boards and equipment. Safe on stencils, squeegees, and equipment surfaces.

The transition to lead-free soldering has increased the need for more frequent oven cleaning to maintain equipment performance. Techspray’s Water-Based SMT Oven Cleaner cleans reflow ovens, wave soldering systems, and associated ventilation systems, removing all types of flux residues (e.g. from R, RA, and Aqueous pastes). It is also widely used to clean small parts in ultrasonic cleaners.

NON-FLAMMABLE CLEANERS FOR SAFETY
Techspray’s water-based cleaners are non-flammable, non-toxic, and biodegradable alternatives to IPA. Strong cleaning ability, convenient packaging, and mild odor makes these water-based cleaners a favorite with operators.

Surface mount technology (SMT) and through-hole board assembly involves high-heat soldering, so not ideal environments for flammable cleaners. IPA is considered highly flammable with a flashpoint of 53°F (11.7°C). Since the melting point of solder is generally over 600°F (316°C), IPA flammability should give health & safety managers cause for concern.

IPA-FREE TO AVOID VOC LIMITS
Under the 1990 Clean Air Act, every state has to specify limits of major sources of VOCs. Many states require companies to file for permits that limit the amount of IPA that can be used.
The specific limits are referred to as RACT (Reasonably Available Control Technology), which the EPA defines as "The lowest emission limitation that a particular source is capable of meeting by the application of control technology that is reasonably available considering technological and economic feasibility." Techspray’s water-based SMT cleaners give electronic manufacturers a more environmentally friendly alternative to IPA.

Techspray is a world-class formulator and manufacturer of quality aerosols and specialty products satisfying the commercial needs of the global electronic manufacturing and repair markets. Techspray’s product line includes cleaner/degreasers, defluxers, contact cleaners, desoldering braid, hand tools, and solder tips.

“At Techspray, our goal is to be the industry leader in PCB production and repair supplies. To accomplish this, we have been developing products and tools in anticipation of regulatory changes. We hope to increase our value to the electronics market by offering solutions previously unavailable through distribution.”