MG Chemicals 424-LF, Lead-Free Superwick #2 Yellow Static Free, 1.5mm, Case of 10
MG Chemicals 424-LF, Lead-Free Superwick #2 Yellow Static Free, 1.5mm, Case of 10
MG Chemicals 424-LF Lead-Free Superwick is a 1.5 mm yellow-coded desoldering braid made from tightly woven, oxide-free copper coated with no-clean flux. The high-purity braid draws molten solder into its weave for surface solder removal during PCB repair and rework. This listing supplies a case of 10 ESD-safe bobbins, each with a 5 ft nominal length of braid.
Best Uses / Applications
- Removing surface solder during circuit board repair and benchtop service.
- Surface-mount assembly touch-up and solder cleanup on appropriately sized pads.
- Lead-free solder removal and general-purpose solder removal.
- Workstations requiring an ESD-safe bobbin and a narrower 1.5 mm braid option.
Application limitation: Although the manufacturer's overview mentions through-hole repair, its current application instructions say wicking works best on surface solder and is not recommended for removing solder inside plated-through holes. Use a process suited to the joint geometry.
Key Features
- Tightly woven, oxide-free copper for fast wicking and reduced dwell time.
- No-clean flux coating with manufacturer-reported non-conductive, non-corrosive residue.
- Yellow-coded 1.5 mm width for identification at the repair bench.
- ESD-safe bobbin; this does not replace the workstation's ESD controls.
- Suitable for lead-free solder removal and general solder cleanup.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer / part number | MG Chemicals / 424-LF |
| Family | 400-LF Series Lead-Free Superwick |
| Braid width | 1.5 mm; manufacturer nominal imperial width 0.06 in. |
| Length per bobbin | 5 ft nominal, approximately 1.5 m |
| Label color / size | Yellow / #2 |
| Package quantity | Case of 10 bobbins |
| Braid material | Tightly woven, oxide-free copper |
| Flux classification, TDS | R (Rosin), ROL0 |
| Flux percentage, TDS | Less than 5% |
| Residue properties | Non-conductive and non-corrosive, manufacturer reported |
| Cleaning requirement, TDS | Recommended |
| Bobbin | ESD safe |
| Shelf life | 10 years |
| Storage | 22–27°C; dry, away from sunlight and moisture; shrink wrapping recommended for extended storage |
| Document references | TDS dated September 30, 2025; SDS September 25, 2025, version 5.02 |
Compare Lead-Free Superwick Widths
| Part number | Width | Label color | Length / bobbin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 424-LF | 1.5 mm / nominal 0.06 in. | Yellow | 5 ft / ESD safe |
| 425-LF | 2.0 mm / nominal 0.08 in. | Green | 5 ft / ESD safe |
| 426-LF | 2.5 mm / nominal 0.10 in. | Blue | 5 ft / ESD safe |
Match braid width to the solder area and available access. The manufacturer recommends selecting braid to suit the solder being removed rather than choosing the widest braid for every joint.
Using the Braid
- Remove conformal coating or contamination from the work area before desoldering.
- For lead-free solder, the TDS suggests starting with a tip temperature of about 315°C and adjusting as necessary for the assembly and process.
- Place the braid on the solder, then place the iron tip on the braid without contacting adjacent components.
- When wicking ends, lift the iron and braid together to avoid pulling on the joint as solder cools.
- Cut off the used section, let the area cool and repeat as needed.
- Clean accumulated flux residue using a compatible, qualified cleaning process.
No-clean does not mean cleaning is never needed. The current TDS lists cleaning as recommended and includes a residue-removal step. Follow the cleanliness requirements of the assembly and your validated process.
Safety and Handling
The SDS identifies rosin-related respiratory and skin sensitization hazards. Avoid breathing fumes, use appropriate ventilation and protective equipment, and review the complete SDS before use. Do not use torch soldering, brazing or torch welding methods with this braid. Used braid and solder can remain hot; handle and dispose of them according to your facility's procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the width of 424-LF?
424-LF is the 1.5 mm, yellow-coded width. The manufacturer lists a nominal imperial width of 0.06 in.
How much braid is on each bobbin?
Each bobbin holds a nominal 5 ft, approximately 1.5 m. This listing is for a case of 10 bobbins.
Is this braid suitable for lead-free solder?
Yes. Lead-Free Superwick is intended for lead-free solder removal and can also be used for general-purpose solder removal.
Is the bobbin ESD safe?
Yes. The current manufacturer TDS identifies the 424-LF bobbin as ESD safe. Continue using your normal ESD-controlled workstation procedures.
Must I clean after using no-clean braid?
The current TDS recommends cleaning and instructs users to remove accumulated flux residue. Follow the assembly's cleanliness requirements rather than assuming no-clean means cleaning is unnecessary.
Can I clear plated-through holes with it?
The manufacturer's application instructions do not recommend this method for solder inside plated-through holes. The braid is best suited to surface solder removal.
How do 424-LF, 425-LF and 426-LF differ?
They share the Lead-Free Superwick family but differ in width and color: 424-LF is yellow 1.5 mm, 425-LF green 2.0 mm, and 426-LF blue 2.5 mm.
What is the shelf life?
The current TDS lists ten years with appropriate storage. Keep it dry and away from moisture and sunlight; shrink wrapping is recommended for extended storage.
Technical and Safety Documents
MG Chemicals 400-LF Series Technical Data Sheet
MG Chemicals 400-LF Series Safety Data Sheet
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PCB Rework & Precision Tools Guide
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