Selective soldering flux - a question for Australian chatters predominantly

[IconicPCB]

I am looking for a liquid flux no clean alcohol based suitable for selective soldering application that is readily available in the arse end of the world geography.

[jpanhalt]

I use Kester EP256 flux as that apparently is also used in the solder paste (plus other stuff) with the same number.  Kester also list its RF741 as a rework flux.  It's SDS is quite similar to EP256.  Both are no clean.  The EP256 has an alcoholic odor and is quite liquid.  I do not have the RF741 and cannot comment on it.

Kester EP256 flux:
https://www.macdermidalpha.com/sites/default/files/sds_pdfs/NA/4070001_KESTER%20SDS%20GHS%20AMERICAS_ENGLISH%20%28US%29.PDF

Kester RF951
https://www.macdermidalpha.com/sites/default/files/sds_pdfs/NA/4070194_KESTER%20SDS%20GHS%20AMERICAS_ENGLISH%20%28US%29.PDF

EDIT: Also used #44 paste flux that I got years ago.  It's my preferred flux for new stuff and hand soldering.

[IconicPCB]

Kester also have SELECT 10 flux specifically formulated for selective soldering process requirement... but... It' a bit of hens teeth situation.  Not available down under. Current mob handling Kester may be looking to switch brands. Situation will be resolved in say half a year.

I will try Aim solder's flux FX16 and 265. No sample quantities, have had to purchase 6 litres in total just to try.

[Mangozac]

Have you checked out the fluxes from Chemtools/Okay? They sell AIM fluxes and have fantastic support too. We have good results with the FX16 in our (non-selective) wave solder.

[Mangozac]

NC265 gives very nice results and is slightly cleaner but my team found that it was more of an irritant when in the air.

[IconicPCB]

Thanks Zac,

I have a couple of containers on their way, 1 litre of FX16 and 5 litres of NC265.
Sadly I have spent close to AUD300 just to try out 4 of AIM's fluxes.
My preference, reading data sheets would be Kester's SELECT 10.

[Mangozac]

That's s shame - I would have gladly given you some samples if you wanted to drive up to the coast!

[IconicPCB]

Zac,
Offered as good as done, Thank You.
At least the locals will now be able to have a reference on these fluxes.
In any case Okay /Aim/Chemtools lost their sales rep in QLD a man who had access to the better support of their products.
Now it does not matter where you look, its all the same often "at arms length" service and support.

[Mangozac]

Yes, it was a shame to lose him as he was a very good sales rep. Support from Chemtools head office is still fantastic when it comes to discussing a technical issue, but their timeliness is certainly suffering lately. Like all of us they're understaffed and too much to do!

[IconicPCB]

Finally tried FX-16 yesterday.

Did about half a dozen assemblies.

Shorts, flags and dross on the PCB significantly reduced. Very pleased with the improved first pass appearance.

The joins have a much shallower solder meniscus angle and the amount of solder adhering to the joint is halved while the entire pad area is wetted.
A sign of a much better joint.

I am yet to try nc265. My expectation is it will be less attractive than FX-16.

An update on Kester SELECT10. I think reading the data sheet it would be the better choice to date... However... Digikey have offered it as a minimum quantity purchase of AUD2500.- or thereabouts.
Just so unrealistic.

[Mangozac]

Digikey have offered it as a minimum quantity purchase of AUD2500.- or thereabouts.

NC265 should be a little nicer. Let us know your thoughts!