====== pcb-printer: Experiments ======
{{tag>project hardware pcb electronics process infrastructure}}

  * Use etch-resist ink as [[http://tech.dir.groups.yahoo.com/group/Inkjet_PCB_Construction/message/830?var=1|solder mask]]
    * can you solder using a soldering iron?
    * can you solder using the reflow oven? (might get too hot)

  * Get etch resist to NOT FUCKING FLAKE OFF THE STUPID PCB DURING ETCHING GRAAAAAAHHH! *rage*
    * **RESULTS:** Use Fe3Cl, not NaPS. All other attempts led to epic failage.
    * Tried a couple of curing temperatures (temp setting on reflow oven) and times, here are my results:

|       ^ 100 °C ^ 150 °C ^ 170°C ^ 180 °C ^ 200 °C ^
^ 4min  |        | FAIL!  | FAIL  | FAIL   | OKish  |
^ 6min  |        | FAIL   |       | FAIL   |        |
^ 8min  | FAIL   | FAIL   | OKish |        |        |
^ 10min |        | FAIL   |       |        |        |

    * "OKish" means the resist still flaked off, but stuck to the board relatively long.
    * An attempt to print on a pre-heated PCB and curing for 4min at 170 °C gave the best results so far (though not perfect), but the hot PCB warped the plastic carrier beyond repair =( A routed aluminium carrier with integrated heating could work.