Soldermask at Home

[DigiTan]

I'm looking to start solder-masking in place of generic spray acrylics to protect circuit boards. The problem is it's hard to find a reputable dealer that will sell in small quantities. My preference is a sprayable mask but I'll take whatever I can get. So my questions are:

1. Do you work with solder mask (or even silkscreening) at home?
2. Where can I find UV-curable solder mask? And is this the same as "UV photoimagable" solder mask?

 

[DigiTan]

Let's put it this way. It's about this and I need to know how to leave the copper pads exposed and where to get UV solder mask in the first place.

 

[Boncuk]

Hi DigiTan,

there is a german electronics freak who published an article about DIY soldermasks using UV-exposure and a special foil to be exposed, developed and washed off the solder pads.

I've lost the link and will ask my friend to provide it again.

As soon as I have it I'll PM you the link and also post it here (in case somebody else is interested).

Regards

Boncuk

 

[Boncuk]

Hi DigiTan,

here is the link: **broken link removed**

Check out the video.

It explains the procedures.

Regards

Boncuk

 

[DigiTan]

That should work. I was leaning toward toward a sprayable mask, but the laminate looks easier to use than I thought.

I'm still having a tough time finding places that actually sell these in reasonable quantities. Most are wholesalers. I'll probably start with the company in his tutorial, but I would like a comparison just to be sure.

 

[Boncuk]

Just look up the table of required materials. It'll tell you the sources and minimum orders.

Boncuk