What are common contaminants that can cause soldering problems?

Body salts and oils, as well as unauthorized hand creams, are common contaminants that can significantly affect the soldering process. These substances can create a barrier between the solder and the surfaces of the components or printed circuit board (PCB), leading to poor wetting and adhesion. When solder does not properly adhere to the surfaces, it can result in unreliable solder joints, which are critical for the electrical and mechanical integrity of an assembly.

The presence of these contaminants can impede the flow of solder and prevent it from adequately filling the joint, which is essential for creating a strong connection. Cleaning the work area and ensuring that hands are free from such substances before handling electronic components is vital to maintaining the quality of the soldering process.

Common practices to mitigate these risks include using proper hand protection, gloves, and ensuring that work surfaces are clean before beginning the soldering process. Additionally, using approved hand creams can minimize the risk of contamination, thereby improving solder joint reliability.