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Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cleaning dirty PCBs

From: Adam Seychell <a_seychell@...>
Date: 2008-02-25

scott zeiser wrote:
>
> Anyhow, when I'm repairing, or even just working on an old PCB, is
there
> a safe and acceptable way to clean a dirty dusty board, obviously
> without compromising the integrity of the PCB or it's components? I
> realize this is not "necessary", but sometimes very dirty boards are
> difficult to work with for obvious reasons. And, restoring the luster of
> a beautiful old board can add to the overall enjoyment of the hobby.

A kitchen dish-washing machine would suit your needs. Just give it a
good cold water rinse after the cycle is done (before it has dried). If
you have a fan forced electric oven capable of 80C~90C temperature
setting then throw it in there for 0.5 hours.
The mild alkalinity of machine dish-washer cleaners won't harm solder,
copper or gold surfaces.