#40 Shop Talk - Wafer switch cleaning tips

[Radio Tech]

#40 Shop Talk - Wafer switch cleaning tips


In this video we look at several types of wafer switches. We then look at a method I use to clean these switches and bring them back to life. These switches are in many types of equipment. Lets look at what  we can do to repair these.

[RobertoLG]

hmmm, nice! I was surprise how clean they got and without a brush, a big  lots to learn from you

[SeanB]

Nice, wonder how it will work with the switch all greased up. Going to use that next time I have to clean a switch, thanks. Night work even better using an ultrasonic cleaner with the small plastic tub sittting in the water in it, faster and scrubs all the dirt off as well.  With the Bakelite remember to use some hot air ( 130c or so) for a while to dry it if the switch is used to switch HT, as the SRBP will have absorbed a lot of water, and will arc over.

[Radio Tech]

Not sure how well it attacks grease.  Most of the time I spray with a little contact cleaner then put in the solution.
Your idea on the ultra sonic is nice.  As great as this stuff works any enhancements has to be a plus.
You do have to dry out the Bakelite, should had mentioned that in the video but slipped my mind.

[Brumby]

I can't imagine the grease would really be affected much with this solution - but I'd be happy to be proven wrong.  I do think something more specific for cleaning greasy surfaces - such as a contact cleaner - used beforehand would be far more effective.

Ultrasonics might be useful - but if this process is done in 15 minutes as it is, I wouldn't be too inspired about pulling out my ultrasonic cleaner.

[Radio Tech]

I agree with removing the grease prior to cleaning.
Ultra sonic cleaners are great. But like you said why set them up for a simple task.
Like in the video I saw results in less than 5 minutes.

[Shock]

That vinegar solution makes sodium acetate and hydrogen chloride which work together to lift the oxides. Not tried it for a degreaser but vinegar is a known degreaser.

Two other methods I have for putting plastic components pots together. Normally what I do is try not to remove much material from the plastic joints and when I reassemble I just melt them back into place with the side of an old soldering iron.

But there is a better way if you want to service it multiple times and that is use a tiny amount of slow curing superglue (allows you time to assemble it properly). Then when you need to get back in, hit the joint with a dab of acetone a couple of times and the superglue bond will release.

Don't let the acetone sit there forever though scrub the old glue off then use IPA and that should clean and prepare it for the next gluing. Not suitable for materials that acetone and superglue/fumes eat into quickly.

[Vgkid]

Thanks for the video. Very informative, I will download it.