[Elecraft] Mineral spirits OK for cleaning boards?

[Stuart Rohre]

Dave and many others,
Acetone has NEVER been allowed for NASA or Military soldering clean up, (I
was qualified to both levels of soldering), since 1964.

Mil soldering used 100 per cent Ethyl Alcohol for which we had to sign a
chit at the supply station.  (Non taxed and it was 200 proof).

Later, most soldering clean up stations went to Freon liquid or vapor phase
cleaning baths.  The environmentalists quashed that.

Acetone is described in "Accident Prevention Manual for Shop Teachers", as a
"less toxic solvent" than carbon tet, "an extremely toxic solvent".  TOXIC
should be something to be avoided in the home without industrial grade
ventilation systems.

Acetone has been largely removed from nail polish remover because of its
toxicity.
It was there because it dissolved the plastic used as nail polish.  Plastics
of similar type are the basis of all our component insulations today.  It is
not just the wetting by the solvent by also the effect long term of the
vapor exposure that can be detrimental.

You CAN solder boards with Multicore Solder, and no one could tell you had
not cleaned the board after soldering. Boards have been exhibited at ham QRP
conventions that have been Multicore soldered and invariably they are
commended for their shiny neat appearance.

The risk to your upper respiratory system is too great to be using
industrial solvents at home, in the shop.  If not your own health, consider
the health of others at home.

Be careful, and do not risk your health for a hobby.
73,
Stuart K5KVH