Electric soldering iron and its use method
There are two main types of soldering irons: external heat and internal heat. Understanding the differences between them is essential for choosing the right tool for your project. Internal heat soldering irons are compact, lightweight, and more affordable. They are commonly used in general electronics work, with typical power ratings ranging from 20W to 30W. Some models come in 50W variants as well. These irons are efficient in heating and allow for easy replacement of the tip, making them ideal for precise tasks. However, they may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications. External heat soldering irons, as the name suggests, have the heating element outside the tip. This design means that much of the heat is lost to the surrounding environment, resulting in slower heating times. It usually takes about 6 to 7 minutes to preheat before use. While they are less efficient in terms of heat retention, they offer higher power options—ranging from 25W up to 300W or even more. These are often used for larger components or when high power is required. However, their bulkier size can make them less convenient for working on small devices. When using a soldering iron, safety should always be a priority. Ensure the soldering iron is properly grounded and check the resistance between the plug and the metal casing with a multimeter before first use. If the needle moves, there may be a fault, and further inspection is necessary. Some manufacturers now use plastic cords instead of rubber cables to cut costs, which can be a safety risk. It's recommended to replace them with rubber cords, as they are more durable and less prone to damage, reducing the risk of burns or electric shocks. Before using a new soldering iron, it’s a good idea to file the tip to ensure it’s clean and smooth. Once powered on, wait until the tip changes color, indicating it has reached the correct temperature. Then apply a small amount of solder to the tip to prevent oxidation and improve conductivity during use. Always keep the tip clean and ensure there is always some solder present to maintain good heat transfer. Proper soldering technique is crucial. If the temperature is too low, the solder won’t melt properly, leading to weak joints. If it's too high, the tip may become "burned" and unable to take solder. The soldering time should be short but sufficient—typically one to two seconds per joint. Avoid moving the iron while soldering, and always position the tip correctly before starting. In mobile phone repair, where surface mount technology (SMT) is widely used, precision is key. Components are tiny, and the circuit boards are densely packed. Using the wrong soldering iron can lead to mistakes like cold solder joints, short circuits, or even damaging the board. For such delicate work, a high-quality, temperature-controlled soldering iron is highly recommended. For larger components or shields, a 60W or higher soldering iron is often necessary. Solder wire is commonly used for convenience. It typically contains rosin flux and is made of a tin-lead alloy, with around 60% tin and 40% lead. This combination gives it a lower melting point, making it ideal for most electronic applications. Rosin is a natural flux that helps in the soldering process. You might recognize it from its use in musical instruments like the erhu. It can be found at pharmacies and is often used in its solid form or mixed with alcohol to create a solution. Store it in a sealed container and add a small piece of cotton to help apply it to the board or component. Be cautious of solder paste, also known as "solder oil," which is corrosive and not suitable for electronics. Similarly, some pine-based products sold as "rosin" are not the same as the rosin used in soldering. Always verify the product type before use. Vertical Burning Testing Machine Vertical Burning Testing Machine,Burning Testing Machine,Vertical Flammability Tester,Single Wire Combustion Test Machine Dongguan Best Instrument Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.best-tester.com