Preventive Maintenance

RBP Chemical Corporationntive Maintenance (PM) should be addressed in all aspects of the manufacturing process. The first and most critical area of concern is IMAGING. Problems here can result in shorts and open circuits that may not be detected until the end of processing.

In addition to environmental controls required in the imaging area, a high quality, anti-static film cleaner applied with a lint-free cloth to the film should be used, such as nylon. Reuse of containers can cause buildup of the antistatic agent which can also result in hazing.

In the DEVELOPING PROCESS it is imperative that the equipment be properly maintained following manufacturers' recommendations. It is important to check and periodically replace worn nozzles. They reduce the spray pattern area and produce an irregular flow.

It is also critical to clean equipment to prevent residue buildup. The use of proprietary developing chemicals with cleaning agents can help to combat carbonate and polymer residues.

BLEED AND FEED SYSTEMS must also be properly calibrated and continually monitored for residue buildup. A dirty system will not release the correct amount of replenishing solution at the right time, reducing the developing speed and effectiveness. It can also cause chemical imbalances such as too much carbonate or antifoam in the solution. These can build up quickly and create the need for additional cleaning. The possibility of an antifoam problem can be reduced by using a highly concentrated, high purity product that will not build up as quickly.

PM in the RESIST STRIPPING PROCESS should be handled much the same as with developing. Equipment needs careful cleaning, monitoring and maintenance.

In the TIN/LEAD STRIPPING PROCESS a buildup of tin/lead residues can contribute to overheating, premature depletion of the stripping solution and excessive chemical consumption. This results in incomplete stripping and lead salt residues being deposited on panels.

The company also offers several other tips that can help prevent problems:

Always follow manufacturers' recommendations on operation and PM of equipment

Use value added, proprietary chemicals to increase efficiency and save on production and labor costs.

Use recommended amounts of chemicals to avoid unnecessary buildup and cleaning problems.

Make sure chemicals and processes are compatible to avoid additional waste or residue.

<%=company%>, 150 S. 118th Street, P.O. Box 14069, Milwaukee, WI 53214-0069, Tel: 414-258-0911, Fax: 414-258-7908