PCB Cleaning

[Grim0013]

So, what do you guys use to clean the gold circuit boards in an MS series amp? I am getting ready to do this, and don't want to mess up and use a substance that is harmful to a component. Does acetone work well, if anyone has used it? Also, is acetone safe for the components?


Thanks,
Brad

[Jacampb2]

Windex works well for initial cleaning, however, the ammonia in it is not good for the copper, so it needs to be followed with something else to remove the ammonia. Isopropyl Alcohol is great for final clean up and is commonly available. This is common rubbing alcohol, however, you need a higher concentration than the bottle from the drug store. Most home improvement centers will have 190 or 200 proof in the paint section.

I would be very leary of acetone, especially 100% acetone, not the fingernail polish remover crap. Acetone is one of the few solvents which will soften epoxies, fiberglass resin (what the PCB layers are adhered with), and dissolve most plastics. Most ic's and transistors use a plastic case, so I wouldn't even try it...

Good luck,
Jason