Magnalytix, providing real-time reliability solutions for electronics manufacturing, will present at the SMTA STAR Forum 2026, taking place July 15–16, 2026 at the Embassy Suites Kansas City Olathe.
Zach Papiez, Sr. Process Engineer at Magnalytix, will deliver a presentation titled Developing Objective Evidence of Acceptable Levels of Flux and Process Residues on a Mixed Technology SIR Test Board.
The session takes a closer look at what really happens when multiple assembly processes—top-side and bottom-side SMT, selective soldering, and manual soldering—are used on the same board. By running all four on a single mixed-technology SIR test vehicle, the study compares how each process leaves behind different types and amounts of residue under the same temperature, humidity, and electrical bias conditions.
Each step in the build has its own challenges. Low stand-off components, bottom-terminated devices, flux movement during selective soldering, and even operator variability in hand soldering can all create areas where active residues remain. Those residues don’t always show up right away, but under the right conditions, they can lead to leakage currents or intermittent failures.
Using SIR testing, the work highlights how these differences play out over time—and why it’s important to evaluate cleanliness in a way that reflects the full process, not just one step in isolation.
The presentation is aimed at engineers who need to make practical decisions about cleanliness limits and test methods, especially in environments where multiple assembly processes are the norm.
To learn more and register, visit SMTA STAR Forum Registration.
To learn more about the MGX Mixed Technology SIR Test Board and Magnalytix’s full slate of services, test boards, and real-time reliability solutions, visit our website.