Flow and Gauge Sensor Fusion in Vapour Phase Soldering Ovens for Optimized Process Control

In this paper, the applicability of flow and gauge sensors are investigated in an industrial vapour phase reflow soldering oven for workspace and soldering cycle identification. The investigated oven represents a typical application of the methodology in the industry on both prototyping and production levels. The sensor components are chosen according to previous findings. The experience of gauge pressure sensors in heat-level type VPS ovens is merged with a novel application of flow sensors – and the fusion is expanded with classic temperature measurements. The dynamics are presented with the flow sensors; the pressure (time) function of a gauge sensor also gives information about the build-up of the vapour column. Meanwhile, it gives a description based on hydrostatic relations of the work zone. The obtained results are compared according to the detected phases of heat-level vapour phase soldering, highlighting both pressure sensor type capability on investigating the steps of a system cycle. The understanding of the received plots in fusion with the temperature readings and the state of the oven in terms of sealing quality of the workspace is expanded with the current discussion, enabling precise control, improving soldering quality and reducing idle time. The workspace identification concept with sensor fusion is in line with the objectives of industry 4.0 trends.