Operational Modes

There are two basic operating modes, REMOVE and INSTALL. They are selectable by the switch on the control panel.

The REMOVE mode is used to reflow solder holding a component to the board. After the initial set up the solder wave traverses back and fourth under the component melting the solder. The Operator applies a pulling action to the component until the component is free from the board. When the component is free the Operator depresses the "STOP REMOVE" switch completing the cycle.

The INSTALL mode is used to install a new component. During this process the solder wave raises contacting the first pins in the row. A dwell occurs of approximately 2 seconds (settable) allowing for initial "soak at temp". Then the wave moves at a controlled pace across all pins of the connector soldering the pins to the board. The speed is usually set to allow all pins to see 2-3 seconds under the solder wave. This happens very quickly as several pins are within the solder wave simultaneously. A typical two row 64 pin connector can be soldered in about 20 seconds. Up to 4 rows of pins within the same connector can be soldered in one pass.

Step and Repeat (for PCBs in Panels):

If the individual boards are held in a panel and within the 18" x 24" perimeter they can all be soldered in the same setup.

The locations for the step and repeat on the X axis (right to left) is set by adjusting the location stops to the correct center lines of the boards within the panel. Once set the Operator simply lifts each out of the way after each install cycle and indexes the panel to the next stop, then initiates the next install cycle.

The step and repeat locations for the Y axis (front to back) are set using index detents. The detents are individual slotted blocks that mate with the detent arm. The blocks are positioned on the centerlines of the boards within the panel. As with the X the Operator indexes positions for each row of boards in the panel. If the setup is to remain dedicated a solid index bar can be used rather than the individual tabs. A.C.E. will supply one at no charge specific to your product with the machine if requested.

Fluxing:

The operator applies flux to the board and the component offline while a fluxed board is being soldered. Automatic flux application is not available on the K.I.S.S.-101.