Specs
Paste Kit specs
Setup notes and briefing numbers for Paste Kit.
Paste temperature and handling limits
The Paste Kit specs page covers the practical checks around solder paste storage, preparation and use at the printer. It is meant for SMT teams comparing the small handling details that often decide print quality on the floor.
Check alloy type, flux system, and jar size before the stencil printer is loaded. Storage bands, thaw time, and room humidity all affect bead roll and aperture fill. Gauteng winter mornings and coastal humidity around Durban often need different waiting times before paste is opened.
Record the tub label, batch code, and expiry date at first issue to the line. A simple card at the printer should note removal from cold store, start time, and any paste added during the shift. That record helps trace poor transfer efficiency, slumping, or random bridges after a line stop.
Checks at the stencil printer
The sheet should state stencil thickness, aperture concerns, and the first print settings used on that board. Include squeegee type, blade pressure range, print speed, and wipe interval so operators are not guessing after changeover. Fine pitch QFPs and small passives usually need tighter control than broad power sections.
Link Paste Kit specs with the matching oven profile note and board build record before any setting is changed. Verify labels on opened paste, confirm what was returned to chilled storage, and note any boards held back after print inspection. SMT line enquiries should name the board type, the placement volume and the machines already on the line.
- Paste batch and expiry recorded
- Thaw start time written at printer
- Stencil wipe interval noted clearly
South African storage conditions
Cold chain handling matters when paste moves through OR Tambo freight, local couriers, or long inland road legs. Sunny delivery bays, standby generators, and office fridges not meant for production stock can all distort the usable window. State where the paste was stored, how it travelled, and when it reached line temperature.
At coastal plants, moisture pickup can shorten open time and change print consistency across a shift. Inland dust around feeders and print areas raises the need for stencil underside cleaning and covered storage between runs. During power interruptions, note exactly when the printer stopped so paste age on the stencil is not guessed later.
Operated by Astros Marketing (Pty) Ltd from 2 Makro Place, Sunnyrock 1401.
What to note on issue
List the board code, stencil ID, paste part number, and any known trouble points before release to production. Add whether the paste was hand mixed, machine conditioned, or used straight after the approved settle period.
File the completed sheet with print inspection results on the same job pack. When purchasing or quality asks for traceability, the paste record should show who issued the paste, what was consumed, and what was scrapped.
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