Trains.com

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Question regarding Oatey #95 tinning flux

12158 views
4 replies
1 rating 2 rating 3 rating 4 rating 5 rating
  • Member since
    January 2002
  • From: Loudonville, NY
  • 776 posts
Question regarding Oatey #95 tinning flux
Posted by Benjamin Maggi on Friday, November 24, 2017 1:46 PM

I have a container of Oatey brand #95 "tinning flux." I have reviewed the label and see nothing stating it is an Acid flux, which I understand is bad for electronics. It is used for soldering copper pipes, but can I safely also use it to solder wires, or to solder a wire to a turnout frog?

For soldering, I am using rosin-core solder (not acid core).

Here is a link to the flux specifications: https://www.amazon.com/Oatey-30372-Tinning-Flux-8-Ounce/dp/B00176KQ32

Thanks. 

Modeling the D&H in 1984: http://dandhcoloniemain.blogspot.com/

  • Member since
    May 2004
  • 7,500 posts
Posted by 7j43k on Friday, November 24, 2017 2:33 PM

Looking at the Amazon page, it looks to me like it's meant for plumbing.  That "fact" doesn't mean you can't use it for electronics.  Or that you can.  Only that the intent of the manufacturer is for "heavy" soldering.

Note that the stuff is a mix of flux and solder, thus the word "tinning".

I wouldn't use it.  I use solder specifically designed for electronics.  And the same for flux.  Which I DO use.

For solder I use:  Kester rosin core 44 in the .5mm size

For flux I use a liquid rosin flux

I have been paid by a military contractor to do this work.

 

Ed

 

  • Member since
    December 2015
  • From: Shenandoah Valley
  • 9,094 posts
Posted by BigDaddy on Friday, November 24, 2017 3:19 PM

That's 8 onces of flux.  You better plan on leaving that in your will for your great grandchildren.

 

Henry

COB Potomac & Northern

Shenandoah Valley

  • Member since
    May 2004
  • 7,500 posts
Posted by 7j43k on Friday, November 24, 2017 3:34 PM

Getting a whole lot of something at a low price (or for free) is not always as wonderful as a person would hope.

Except when it is.

 

 

Ed

  • Member since
    February 2002
  • From: Reading, PA
  • 30,002 posts
Posted by rrinker on Friday, November 24, 2017 7:59 PM

 I use Superface #30 water soluable flux for electronics. Note that if you actually look up the product - it actually is a weak organic acid, but it is nothing like acod flux used for plumbing and is completely safe for electronics. I use it for everything, but it works extremely well for soldering rails together, or when soldering rail to PCB ties, such as making Fast Tracks jig-style turnouts. Excess is easily wiped up with isopropyl alcohol pads.

                            --Randy

 


Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's

 

Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Users Online

There are no community member online

Search the Community

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Model Railroader Newsletter See all
Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!