A clean PCB is important for reliability. Printed circuit board may sometimes accumulate dust or other contaminants and need to be cleaned. A dirty PCB may affect the proper function of its intended design. Whether your board is dirty due to exposure to its working environment, or because its packaging or protection is not properly protected, it is important to perform proper cleaning methods to improve reliability.

How does a dirty PCB affect function

Dust consists of materials suspended in the air. It is complex in nature and usually consists of a mixture of inorganic mineral materials, water-soluble salts, organic materials and a small amount of water.

As SMT components become smaller and miniaturized, the risk of failure due to contaminants increases. Studies have clearly demonstrated that dust makes circuit boards more susceptible to moisture-related failures, such as loss of surface insulation resistance, electrochemical migration, and corrosion.

How to clean PCB

Extra care should be taken when cleaning PCB. ESD precautions should be considered and should be disconnected and performed in a dry place. If you use incorrect cleaning methods or procedures, the board may not work at all.

Clean the dust

For dust, the best way to remove dust is to blow the circuit board clean with compressed air. Be careful of sensitive areas that could cause damage. A toothbrush is another tool you can use to remove dust.

Clean flux

Circuit boards with residual flux AIDS must be cleaned with saponifying agent. For amateurs and engineers, it’s most common to wipe wine. A toothbrush can be moistened with alcohol and can be used to scrub any flux. Please note that if your board welds have no-wash flux, it will be difficult to remove and a stronger cleaner may be required.

Clean the corrosion

Use baking soda to clean up minor corrosion caused by batteries and other items. It can be used to remove dirt without damaging the board. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and helps remove corrosion or residue that would otherwise be impossible with simple tools such as a brush with distilled water. It also neutralizes the acidity of the residue.