Chemask® Solder Mask, 1 Gallon

FAQs

How high of a temperature can temporary solder mask withstand?

Solder mask is engineered to withstand molten solder temperature for a very brief time (about a second) it is exposed in a typical wave soldering process. Most commercially available masks should be able to withstand melting point temperatures of lead-based and lead-free solder, up to 650°F (343°C). As exposure time is lengthened, like in a reflow oven, there is more potential that the mask will bubble, char, and become brittle. How long a mask can withstand extreme temperatures depends on the thickness of the bead and the type of mask.

Can temporary solder mask be left on the PCB permanently?

Temporary solder mask is intended to be just that – temporary. Manufacturers of solder masks, like Chemtronics, always recommend removing the mask because there is no testing to support doing otherwise. If you decide to leave the solder mask on as a permanent part of the PCB, you will have to do your own functional and reliability testing to ensure it does not cause a problem.

Does temporary solder mask leave an ionic residue?

No, temporary solder mask will not leave behind ionic residue that can lead to dendritic growth and board failure.