Last month we showed how solder flux in cable/harness assemblies causes good connections to go bad. A different kind of failure happens when flux causes good insulation to go bad. Again, flux can be a nearly invisible source of failures. Even if you use crimped contacts, flux from soldering shields may create degraded insulation. Our newsletter this month focuses on insulation failures caused by flux on the insulated surfaces of connectors.

If you have any questions or comments, call us at 1-800-441-9910.

Flux that works its way inside a connector can cause insulation resistance problems.

Danger: Degraded Insulation from Flux in Cables and Harnesses

Have you ever been frustrated with insulation failures in cables? These failures are usually found during high voltage insulation resistance (IR) testing. Often they only happen on humid days. Flux, from soldering of contacts or shielding, can migrate onto insulated surfaces of the connector between contacts. Anything less than a thorough cleaning can make IR failures worse. If you use solder flux and you have insulation leakage problems see our technical help:
Flux Can Cause Insulation Defects in Cables.

If you solder contacts or shielding and have problems with opens or high resistance connections, see our technical help from last month:
Flux Can Cause Connection Defects in Cables.

Upcoming Tradeshows

See us next at these shows:

• APEX, Los Angeles, CA February 20-22 Booth # 1026
• Wire Harness Manufacturers Association Conference, San Francisco, CA April 12-14
• Wire Processing Expo, Milwaukee May 23-24 Booth # 1445

For more tradeshow information see our Trade Show Schedule.