Flux dispensing is a critical process in robotic soldering that involves precisely applying flux—a chemical cleaning agent—onto a printed circuit board (PCB) before soldering. Flux removes oxidation and prepares the metal surfaces for a stronger, more reliable solder bond. In robotic systems, this task is automated to ensure high accuracy, repeatability, and minimal waste, especially in high-volume or high-precision electronics manufacturing.
Flux Dispensing
Flux Dispensing
HOW FLUX DISPENSING WORKS IN AN AUTOMATED SYSTEM
In robotic soldering, flux is applied through a micro dispensing valve system controlled by a digital controller. The robot positions the dispensing nozzle exactly where flux is needed—usually on solder pads or component leads—before the soldering tool makes contact. Depending on the setup, the system can apply micro-dots or fine lines of flux with consistent pressure and volume.
The dispensing valve (like the FCM100) does the actual fluid delivery, while the controller (such as the ST100) regulates air pressure and timing to ensure accurate and consistent dispensing. This combination eliminates the variability found in manual soldering, enhances quality control, and supports high-speed production.
FLUX DISPENSING ESSENTIALS
1. ST100 Digital Benchtop Controller
A compact and user-friendly controller, the ST100 manages the timing, pressure, and operation of the dispensing valve. This controller is a smart solution for improving dispensing efficiency and reducing fluid waste in automated processes.
2. FCM100 Non-Contact Micro Dispensing Valve
This is the heart of the dispensing process. The FCM100 delivers ultra-precise amounts of flux without touching the PCB—perfect for high-speed soldering robots.
Flux Dispensing | Controller Specs. and Features
- Controller Specifications
- Controller Features
Specifications
TIMER RANGE
0.01 – 99.99 seconds
POWER
115/230V AC input, 24V DC internal
DIMENSIONS
241 mm x 168 mm x 70 mm
PRESSURE
1–100 psi adjustable output
CERTIFICATIONS
CE, RoHS
WEIGHT
2.27 kg (5 lbs)
Features
EASY MONITORING
Digital timer with LED display for easy monitoring
CONTROL AIR
Integrated 2-position, 4-way solenoid valve to control air to the dispense valve
CONSISTENT OUTPUT
Built-in pressure regulation and gauge for consistent output
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
Serial port connection for integration with automation systems
FIT PRODUCTION NEEDS
Manual, timed, or teach modes to fit different production needs
MANUAL CONTROL IF NEEDED
Electric foot pedal operation for manual control if needed
Flux Dispensing | Valve Specs. and Features
- Controller Specifications
- Controller Features
Specifications
DISPENSE TYPE
Pneumatically actuated micro-needle valve (front-closing)
MINIMUM SHOT SIZE
0.83 µL
MINIMUM LINE WIDTH
0.25 mm (0.010 in)
MINIMUM ORIFICE I.D.
0.08 mm (0.003 in)
VISCOSITY RANGE
1 – 20,000 cps
OPERATING AIR PRESSURE
60 – 100 psi
OPERATING FLUID PRESSURE
1 – 100 psi
DIMENSIONS
152 mm x 19 mm x 19 mm (6 in x 0.75 in x 0.75 in)
CYCLE RATE
Up to 600 cycles per minute (depending on fluid and setup)
WEIGHT
Approx. 250 g
MOUNTING
Standard threaded holes for benchtop or robotic integration
WETTED MATERIALS
Stainless Steel, Teflon®, Kalrez®
MICRO MATERIALS
Manual adjustment with numeric dial and locking collar
NEEDLE ASSEMBLY
Stainless steel needle and seat for reliable sealing
Features
NON-CONTACT DISPENSING
Precisely “propels” fluid onto the target surface without physical contact—ideal for high-speed automation and consistent pattern placement.
INTEGRATED MICROMETER ADJUSTMENT
Allows fine control over needle retraction, enabling exact tuning of flow rate. A lock ring ensures settings stay secure during production.
Z-AXIS MOTION CAPABILITY
Enables dispensing without Z-axis motion, increasing cycle speed and consistency on automated systems.
SEAMLESS AUTOMATION INTEGRATION
Fully compatible with many automated dispensing platforms.
INTERCHANGEABLE NOZZLES
Supports 10 to 33 gauge stainless steel or ceramic nozzles, easily swapped to match your dot or line size requirements.
VERSATILE DISPENSING PROFILES
Capable of delivering both individual dots and continuous bead lines with high accuracy and minimal fluid waste.
MINIMAL FLUID VOLUME
Optimized for reduced nozzle fluid volume, helping achieve clean starts and stops with minimal stringing or dripping.
Needles
These disposable dispensing needles combine a sturdy stainless steel tip with a durable plastic hub for secure, accurate application. The threaded connection ensures a tight fit, while the polished blunt tip provides smooth, controlled flow. Each hub is color-coded for easy size recognition, making them practical for various tasks. Designed for precision and reliability, these needles are ideal for consistent fluid handling without clogging or mess.
Nozzles
Designed for smooth, controlled dispensing, these nozzles feature a tapered tip to reduce back pressure and ensure steady flow. Options include all-plastic models with color-coded hubs for easy size identification, and metal-core versions for added precision. Both styles offer a clean, consistent outlet ideal for detailed applications. A full metal variant is also available for reusable setups. Reliable and efficient, these nozzles suit a range of fluid handling needs without compromising flow or accuracy.
Sample Video
- Flux Dispensing
About
Industry: Aerospace/Electronics/Automotive/Medical
Application: Lock-On Mechanism for Contact Soldering Robot. Japan Unix Locking Mechanism. This mechanism is used to lock on the wire solder feed position. This prevents a defect due to a feed position shift.
Design: Fancort RAD (Robotic Automation Division)
Integrated by: Fancort RAD (Robotic Automation Division)
Certified Robots & Platforms
Certified Robots - Available in Contact and Laser
Certified Platforms - Available in Contact and Laser
Browse Our Add-Ons
Enhance Your Soldering Operations with Premium Add-Ons!
Unlock the full potential of your robotic soldering systems with our advanced Contact Soldering Add-Ons and Laser Soldering Add-Ons. Designed to elevate precision, efficiency, and reliability, these accessories seamlessly integrate into your workflow to meet even the most demanding production requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of contact soldering?
Consistently high quality joints, lower operator skill, up to 2x productivity.
Is robotic soldering faster than hand soldering?
Yes, a robotic soldering process is typically faster because an operator can load while the robot is simultaneously soldering.
I have a high product mix. How do I address fixturing?
AFancort is an expert fixture designer with the ability to develop quick change and flexible fixturing options.
Does Japan Unix/Fancort offer in-line turn-key solutions?
Absolutely, Japan Unix and Fancort can both offer solutions for high volume processes including assembly, inspection and other ancillary processes.
What is the typical Japan Unix tip life? How much do tips costs?
Japan Unix tips provide industry-leading tip life in the range of 20,000 — 25,000 hits depending on the application. Tips are typically half the cost of competitive offerings with integrated heating elements.
How do I determine if my application is a good candidate for robotic soldering?
Fancort offers free application reviews. If the process meets our standards then we proceed to a consultative proof of concept phase where we may run samples and develop fixturing concepts.
Get in touch
For more information, click on the button or contact:
Contact us! Speak with a specialist today.
Robotic Soldering Sitemap
SERVICES
Robotic Soldering Automation
VISION SYSTEMS
Teaching Aid
Fiducial Correction System
Max Machine Vision
LASER SOLDERING
Laser Soldering
Desktop Laser
UNIX-DF303L
IRON SOLDERING
Iron Soldering
CONSUMABLES
Soldering Tips
• SUPPORT
Online Support
On-site Support
PLATFORMS (LASER)
Stand-Alone Cell
Stand-Alone Gantry
Twin-Table Cell
Inline Cell