![]() Avoid using temperatures that are higher than you need them to be to help protect your tips. The temperature you set the iron to also impacts tip life. Recovery time, which is the time it takes the tip to return to the desired temperature, also differs between soldering iron models. Some soldering irons have more accurate temperature regulation than others. These irons can sense when the temperature has dipped or risen out of the intended range and automatically adjust it. Soldering station irons that have a temperature sensor can help regulate temperature for you without damaging your tips. Using excessive temperatures, however, reduces the life of your tips and can lead to sub-optimal results. To compensate for this, many solderers turn up the heat more than is needed. When using many soldering irons, the temperature of the tip will naturally decrease when in use. Keeping the temperature of your tips as consistent and as close to optimal as possible will help extend their life. Excess solder can end up in the socket or base, and cause short circuits and jammed switches. You should also take care to only use as much solder as you need. The size of the project will determine the solder diameter that’s right for you. The US Safe Water Drinking Act, for instance, requires you to use lead-free solder on all lines that will carry drinking water. The composition you want depends on the material you plan to solder and whether you’re using flux, as well as health and safety concerns. It’s also vital to choose the right type of solder for your project. High-quality melted lead-free solder also has a matte appearance.ĭifferent types of solder will act differently, so it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s description to ensure it performs as expected. ![]() Melted lead solder will appear shiny, while a low-quality product will look more matte. If you use solder that contains lead, the appearance will also give you an idea of its quality. Most 60/40 (tin/lead) solder, for example, should melt easily at around 238☌. Good-quality solder should melt readily at the expected temperature, while low-quality solder may not melt completely. You can also test the quality of solder by heating it and observing how easily it melts. Purchasing solder from reputable brands is one way to increase certainty that the product will be of high quality. ![]() If you use low-quality solder that contains impurities, those contaminants may build up on the tip, get it in the way of heat transfer and make your soldering work more difficult. One of the best preventive measures you can take to protect your solder tips is to use high-quality solder. Follow these tips to reap the benefits of proper soldering iron tip care. Soldering tips wear out over time and eventually need replacing, but taking steps to care for your tips can extend their life, save you money and improve the results of your soldering work. Poor tip maintenance is one of the leading causes of soldering problems. If it cannot perform its function of effective heat transfer to the connection point, the soldering iron itself will be unreliable. The tip of any soldering iron is the most critical component in the performance of the tool. ![]()
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