How to Reflow a BGA IC with a Butane Torch
In most cases, when reflowing BGA, or ball grid array, solder balls, a radiant heat source is used to heat the BGA on the PCB, or printed circuit board. However, if you must, you can use alternative heat sources such as a butane torch. You need a heat source of approximately 300 degrees Celsius to flow the solder on the PCB. For the DIY home electronics buff, a butane torch can help you avoid some of the cost of investing in high-dollar soldering equipment. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Vise
- Eutectic solder flux
- BGA chip
- Two butane torches
- Infrared camera with built in thermometer
Instructions
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1
Place the PCB board into the jaws of a vice. The vice supports the PCB and gives you the ability to keep both hands free.
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2
Place a small amount of eutectic solder flux onto the PCB where you plan to install the BGA chip and reflow a BGA solder ball.
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3
Place the BGA chip onto the solder flux. The solder ball is attached to the top of the BGA chip.
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4
Position an infrared camera with built in thermometer so you can see a horizontal view of the BGA chip.
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5
Turn on the butane torches and hold the torches in front of the camera. Adjust each torch until its heat output reads approximately 300 degrees Celsius.
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6
Hold one torch above the BGA chip, then hold the other torch under the PCB board, below the BGA chip.
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Watch the surface temperature of the PCB board and BGA chip until it reaches 300 degrees Celsius. You will see the solder become molten, which melts the solder onto the PCB board.
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8
Turn off the butane torches and allow time for the PCB board to cool.
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Tips & Warnings
With the use of radiant heat, you can install multiple BGA chips and reflow the solder at one time. However, a butane torch creates a focused heat source. When using a butane torch, only reflow one solder ball at a time. Also, keep an eye on the PCB board. You cannot overheat a BGA chip, but you can damage the PCB board by melting it.
