Soldering techniques

[fatmantom]

Use a desoldering pump/solder sucker to remove solder from connectors after re-heating them. Works like a charm.

Remember to tin the iron tip too. This increases the area in which it can transfer heat to the connector as the solder fits the shape of the connector when the iron can't. Reduces time needed to heat things and reduces risk of a dry joint.

Tips here:

http://www.kpsec.freeuk.com/solder.htm

Phil.

oooohhh so thats what that is!!!

i have about 3 desoldering pump/solder sucker things that i have been given in kits and i never new what they were!! thought they were some sort of glue applyer lol

[XH558]

Please clarify.
Which flux is a good one and where do you get it?
Which solder is a good one and where do you get it?
etc etc etc?

I always get everything like this from Chronos
My Dad put me on to them as he makes grandfather clocks - all types of silver/gold jewellery and he's currently also making a working mini traction engine Chronos is a 'fill yer boots' type of place - it's like an aladdins cave for a fettler - and you can ring them and talk about stuff and they will advise - have a look around their site

I note Sao's comment about flux core solder - each to his own - but I just don't trust it - also as I said my own tin of flux paste is still going strong after 30 years - so its not a regular purchase Some people swear by paste - others by liquid....... I've just always preferred paste.

To avoid damaging batteries I use a 1200w trigger type soldering iron specifically for that job - one that puts loads of heat very quickly into one spot and then is quickly removed - works for me. I have 3 other irons all for different jobs.

[Fixxxer]

I'm a seperate flux man myself, I never can get along with the flux core stuff.

[XH558]

I'm a seperate flux man myself, I never can get along with the flux core stuff.

Good man You know it makes sense