The Zero Ion is a Resistivity of Solvent Extract (ROSE) testing system designed to detect and quantify ionic residues
US-based electronics manufacturing services provider Absolute EMS has installed a Zero Ion Ionic Contamination Tester from Aqueous Technologies to strengthen its printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) cleanliness monitoring and quality assurance processes.
The Zero Ion is a Resistivity of Solvent Extract (ROSE) testing system designed to detect and quantify ionic residues on electronic assemblies and bare circuit boards. The system uses dynamic measurement technology to provide repeatable cleanliness measurements, helping manufacturers monitor cleaning processes and verify assembly cleanliness.
Ionic contamination can originate from flux residues, soldering processes, handling, and other manufacturing activities. While such residues may not be visible during standard inspections, they can contribute to electrochemical migration, corrosion, electrical leakage, and premature product failures.
The new system will provide objective data on assembly cleanliness, allowing the company to monitor process consistency, identify deviations, and maintain documentation for quality control and customer requirements.
The Zero Ion’s statistical process control (SPC) data-logging capabilities will also enable Absolute EMS to analyse cleanliness trends and support continuous process improvement.
“Maintaining consistent cleanliness is an important part of producing reliable electronic assemblies,” said Mark Sika, President, Absolute EMS. “The addition of the Zero Ion gives us another tool to verify our manufacturing processes, identify potential contamination issues, and support the quality and reliability our customers expect.”
The investment is aimed at strengthening Absolute EMS’s process control and product reliability as the company continues to focus on quality improvement in electronics manufacturing.
