Automated fluxless soldering using inert gas
US6196446A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 6, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 13, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2101/40
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for performing fluxless soldering includes an enclosure having a gas inlet through which an inert gas is introduced to create an inert gas-rich environment. Components are placed in the enclosure via an access port which also functions as a vent for allowing purge gases to vent from the enclosure. In one embodiment, a heating stage is provided in the enclosure which provides sufficient heat to reflow solder provided between two or more components. The inert gas is constantly flowing, or purging the enclosure in order to displace oxygen that would initially be present in the system. The presence of inert gas exclusive of other materials provides an oxygen-free environment, i.e., the inert gases provide a "shield" or environment around the parts to be soldered to inhibit the formation of additional oxides during soldering. The apparatus may also include an optics holder for transmitting light from an external light source into the enclosure, to permit visual alignment of component parts.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.