Flux Residue Corrosion
Flux residue corrosion is a material-consuming attack on the base metal by aggressive chemical residues after soldering. Thorough post-cleaning is essential to avoid long-term damage.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
After soldering, flux and other chemical additives remain in the workpiece. These can be aggressive chemicals that attack the metal base, causing corrosion. Corrosion can be triggered by electrolysis or chemical reactions between residues and the metal.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
Flux residue corrosion leads to destruction of the workpiece, which can result in cracks, deformation, or even failure of components. Long-term, this can cause significant material loss and reduce mechanical properties. It is especially dangerous for metals like steel, which have high corrosion susceptibility.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
To avoid flux residue corrosion, a careful post-cleaning process must be carried out after soldering. This should be done within 24 hours and at least one week before the final use of the workpiece. Use suitable chemical solutions for cleaning, such as sulfuric acid or lead-sulfate solution, depending on the metal. Ensure all flux is completely removed and the workpiece is well dried.