7.7 Solder Fume Extraction

7.6

Soldering Solderprocesses Fumegenerate Extraction

• The Hazard: Colophonycolophony (Rosin)rosin) fumesparticulates and gaseous byproducts, which are a potent respiratory sensitizer.sensitizers (causes of occupational asthma). Effective Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) is a legal and health mandate.

7.7.1 Extraction Hierarchy

• Tip Extraction (High Vacuum): A small tube integrated directly onto the soldering iron. Pros: Captures fumes at the source. Cons: Can cool the tip; high maintenance.
• Arm/Cowling Extraction Hierarchy:(Volume):
  1.  Flexible arms positioned near the work. Tip Extraction:Mandate: AttachedThe hood must be within 1.5x the duct diameter of the solder joint to be effective.
  3. Machine Extraction: Reflow ovens and Wave soldering machines must be ducted directly to the solderingfacility ironexhaust or heavy-duty filtration units.

7.7.2 Filtration Maintenance 

Recirculating units (Best)which return air to the room) must use a multi-stage system:

• Pre-Filter: Captures large dust (Change Monthly).
• ArmHEPA Extraction:Filter: MoveableCaptures ductsparticulates > 0.3 micron (Good,Change butevery relies6-12 on operator discipline)months).
• BenchtopActivated Filtration:Carbon/Gas Filter: CarbonAdsorbs filtersVOCs and odors (OkayChange forwhen lightsaturation work)alarm triggers or smell is detected).

Final Checklist

System	Requirement	Maintenance
Capture Velocity	0.5 m/s at the source	Annual Flow Test
Filter Maintenance:Integrity	No Schedulesvisible for changingbypass; HEPA andactive	Logged CarbonChange filtersSchedule
Ducting	Negative basedpressure on(no hoursleaks)	Visual of use.Inspection