AIM Solder FAQs
Welcome to AIM Solder’s FAQ page. Here, you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions about our products, services, and company policies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to some of the most common questions about our products, applications, and services. For additional information or assistance, please contact our support team.
General FAQs
A: AIM Solder offers a wide range of solder products, including solder paste, liquid and paste fluxes, solder wire, bar solder and various alloys.
A: Yes, AIM Solder offers technical support, including solder joint analysis, stencil design support, solder analysis, and on-site consulting.
A: Safety data sheets (SDS) for most common AIM Solder products are available for download on the website here. If you need an SDS not available on the site, reach out to our customer service team.
A: AIM Solder provides dross recycling services, offering environmentally safe processing and maximum recovery value.
A: Our website features a Technical Center with tutorials, technical articles, and troubleshooting guides for various soldering applications.
A: AIM Solder offers a wide variety of products designed to meet the needs of most applications. However, if your needs are more specialized, reach out to AIM’s customer service team to start a conversation.
A: AIM produces, tests, and inspects products to written external/internal specifications AIM maintains a controlled list, electronic and hard copy of internal, customer and industry specifications. AIM internal specifications are provided where customer and industry standards are unavailable, inappropriate, or inadequate. Customer specifications are reviewed to ensure AIM’s capability to comply and maintained to verify compliance. AIM produces material that meets or exceeds industry standards. Review AIM metal policies and certificates here.
A: AIM Solder products are designed for a variety of electronics and industrial applications across the automotive, military and aerospace, and LED lighting sectors and beyond.
A: Yes, AIM Solder offers products and guidance to help customers comply with RoHS regulations.
A: Detailed technical data sheets (TDS) for AIM products are accessible on the website for customer reference.
A: Delivery times may vary based on product availability and customer location, however AIM Solder ships from locations around the globe, minimizing lead time no matter where you are. If you need assistance, reach out to our customer service team.
A: AIM Solder frequently participates in industry events and trade shows. Visit the news section of our website for details about upcoming exposition and conference participation.
Product Specific Questions
A: Tacky Flux is a flux paste used for applications requiring secure part placement before reflow, ideal for flip chip assembly and advanced packaging.
A: Yes, AIM fluxes are generally compatible with various alloys; however, checking specific product data sheets for compatibility recommendations is always best.
A: For high-stress applications, consider using our high-reliability alloy, REL22, and follow recommended reflow profiles to achieve optimal bonding.
Applications and Usage Questions
A: AIM provides reflow profile supplement guides to help optimize your profile to your specific product and application. You can find these profile supplements in The Library, along with other useful resources.
A: Minimizing voiding involves using low-voiding alloys, optimizing the reflow profile, and ensuring adequate stencil design to promote gas escape.
A: Solder paste should be stored in a refrigerated environment between 0–12°C (32–55°F) to maintain its quality and shelf life. Refrigeration doubles the typical room temperature product shelf life. To learn more about proper solder paste handling, click here.
A: Dross should be removed regularly, typically at the beginning and end of each shift, to ensure optimal solder quality and reduce contamination.
Technical Support Questions
A: Voiding can be minimized by optimizing reflow profiles, using low-voiding alloys and fluxes, and ensuring the PCB surface is clean and oxide-free. Contact AIM’s technical support team to learn more about minimizing voids.
A: Yes, AIM Solder provides technical support and guidance for new product implementations, including on-site assistance and process optimization. To learn more about AIM’s technical support services, click here.
A: Absolutely. AIM Solder’s technical support team is available to conduct process audits and provide recommendations for improved efficiency and yield. Contact an AIM expert today for more information.
A: Stencil life refers to the period during which solder paste remains workable on the stencil without drying out. To extend it, store the paste in a controlled environment and minimize exposure to air. Learn more about proper solder paste handling here.
A: AIM’s tacky fluxes provide consistent tackiness for secure part placement, reduce voiding, and leave minimal residue, ideal for precise applications.
Safety and Compliance Questions
A: Yes, many of AIM’s solder products are RoHS compliant. Refer to individual product specifications or consult with our team to confirm compliance.
A: Yes, AIM offers several lead-free alternatives, such as SAC305, SN100C, REL61, and, for high reliability applications, REL22. Learn more about AIM’s lead-free alloy offerings.
A: Yes, SDSs for commonly recommended AIM products can be found on our website. SDSs for additional AIM products are available upon request.
A: Yes, many AIM products comply with REACH regulations. Check specific product documentation or consult our team for detailed information.
A: AIM follows strict manufacturing practices to minimize waste, use sustainable resources, and provide recycling programs for certain materials. Learn more about AIM’s environmental awareness.
Sustainability and Disposal Questions
A: Yes, AIM offers dross and scrap reclamation services, featuring environmentally safe processing and maximum recovery value for customers.
A: Used materials should be disposed of according to local regulations for hazardous waste. AIM provides disposal guidance upon request.
A: AIM is committed to sustainable practices, including environmentally conscious manufacturing, waste reduction, and a cradle-to-grave approach for certain materials. To learn more about AIM’s environmental awareness, click here.
A: Depending on local recycling programs, many AIM product containers are recyclable. Check your local guidelines or consult AIM for specific information.
For more specific questions, please contact AIM Solder’s support team.
We’re here to help you get the support and information you need to ensure the best use of our products and services.