Soldering Basics

Solder (pronounced ‘sahder’) is material made of tin and lead Solder (pronounced ‘sahder’) is material made of tin and lead. We use solder that is 60% tin and 40% lead, known as 60/40. Solder is used to join two pieces of metal by melting the solder but not the pieces of metal being joined. Copper is easy to be soldered and is very common in electronics.

The melting point of solder is 370 deg The melting point of solder is 370 deg. F and the iron can range up to over 800 deg. Care must be used in soldering to prevent burns and other injuries. Goggles must be worn while soldering and soldering should be done on a heat- resistant surface.

Good soldering takes practice Good soldering takes practice. The application will determine the amount of heat and solder. Wire splicing practice will be done first, then printed circuit boards a bit later.

Soldering Techniques Good soldering involves the right amount of solder to make a good mechanical and electrical connection. Too little or too much solder can lead to problems.

Apply solder to component lead after heating. Solder should be applied to the surface to be soldered after 2-3 seconds.

Soldering iron and cleaners

Burned tip; needs to be cleaned. Good tip; tinned. Burned tip; needs to be cleaned. Good tip; tinned.

Flat side of tip should be against work.