2020: What Did We Learn?

2020 is coming to a close- and what a wild ride it’s been! So what did we learn and what are the take-aways? I’m sure you’d agree that there are too many to list out in this blog but the importance of cleaning is high on that list. For each of us, there have been both professional and personal challenges to overcome, new information to learn, and lessons absorbed. Whether you’re running a business or a household, 2020 is certainly a year to remember- and more importantly to learn from.

Over the past twelve months, the Cleaning Chronicles has covered a wide range of topics that were meant to expose, educate, and enlighten readers about various aspects of electronics cleaning within the SMT electronics industry.  From pH Neutral and Alkaline Cleaning Agents to Multiple Thermal Cycles, from Cleaning Your Maintenance Tools to Why Clean PCBs? we’ve offered food for thought about your cleaning process.  Hopefully, you’ve learned a thing or two.

As for me, what I’ve learned from the Cleaning Chronicles is that there’s a simple question that must be asked: Can I afford to NOT clean PCBs?

The answer to that depends on your level of risk tolerance.  From where I sit, risk is risk, and as a business, you do whatever you can to mitigate it. Considering the effects on your business and acting to reduce things like failure costs, warranty recalls and relationship damage will make your product better and your business stronger.

With 2021 upon us, perhaps it’s time to think about your answer to that question.  I’m sure that as you do, more questions will arise such as How do I begin the process of cleaning PCBs? How do I improve my current process?  What can I do better?

I’ve said it in past chronicles and I’ll say it again… If you have questions, don’t go it alone. Get some help. Think about aligning yourself with a partner that can optimize your cleaning process. If you don’t know where to start, think about the manufacturers and vendors you already work with.  They should be able to point you in the right direction.  Remember, your process is unique and you’ll need to determine a solution that is tailored to your unique needs.

To all of those with whom we’ve had the pleasure to share our thoughts over the past year, we thank you for your time, attention, and interest. We sincerely hope that 2021 will see you safe, healthy, and prosperous. Cheers!