How to choose the right soldering iron

How to choose the right soldering iron?

Previously, when there was no particular opportunity to turn to soldering experts and fix the necessary thing, many people had a tool such as a soldering iron at home. But nowadays they don’t bother too much with breakdowns, because there are a large number of services that readily provide their services.

But if you want to learn how to solder, you begin to think about how to choose the right soldering iron for your household needs. To solve this problem, you need to decide on several points.

Types of soldering iron

The main purpose of a soldering iron is to connect various elements together. This tool is used both for industrial purposes and at home.

Today there are several types, once you understand them, it will be easier to make your choice.

EPSN. This abbreviation stands for electric soldering iron with a heater. In order for such a model to work, it needs electricity. You can also use a transformer or battery for it. Only after connection the working tip will begin to heat up, however, in order for it to reach the desired temperature, a sufficient amount of time must pass. In addition, the soldering itself in the house using such a tool will also last a long time.
Pulse soldering iron. Unlike its first brother, this type provides faster operation. There is a button on the body of the tool, pressing which, an electric current instantly heats up the tip. After soldering is completed, the working element cools down quite quickly. This characteristic is very convenient in the field of radio electronics. Moreover, such a tool is safer than EPSN. Although, for the sake of fairness, it is worth noting the fact that pulse models are much more expensive than electric ones. The choice of soldering iron is also made taking into account that EPSN requires in addition soldering equipment: stands, suction, etc. Of course, the true purpose of many supplements can only be correctly assessed by a specialist.
Gas soldering iron. This model is used in the absence of electricity. Not only the tip, but also a gas cylinder is built into the body of such a unit. The process of “igniting” the soldering iron is carried out in this way: by pressing a button, gas is supplied from the cylinder to the “piez”, which gives a spark, resulting in the ignition of the gas. But from a security point of view, this option is not always safe.
Soldering stations. Such models are designed for frequent use, and they provide high precision soldering of elements. Such a station is the same electric soldering iron, but with the ability to adjust the heating temperature of the tip. Such units have a protection system against excessive loads and static. The convenience of such equipment is that there is no need to constantly monitor the temperature. It is initially set once, and the soldering iron independently keeps it at the desired level. If you choose a soldering iron for your home with this configuration, you should additionally provide it with a stand, a bath for a cleaning sponge, and a hot air gun. For this type of soldering device, you will have to invest a significant amount of money, since their cost is high. Although if welding at home is carried out frequently, it will quickly pay for itself.

Main product parameters

The main criteria that you should pay attention to when choosing a soldering iron are the power and type of tip.

If you have to work with large parts, sheets of metal or large-diameter wires, then units with a power of 80 to 200 W are suitable for such purposes.

But if welding is carried out using radio-electronic equipment, then 40-80 watts of power will be enough. If you use low-power models, there is a risk that the soldering area will overheat, and this in turn will lead to breakdown of electrical equipment.

Also, depending on the scope of application of the soldering iron, you should choose a tip for it. It can be cone-shaped, spade-shaped, in the form of a needle or screwdriver. If there is a need to use a thin tip, then its diameter should not exceed 0.5 cm.

The quality of the work performed will directly depend on how responsibly you approach the choice of such a tool. Besides, can a “weak” soldering iron withstand large amounts of load? Of course not. Therefore, this issue should be approached carefully.

Today, rod soldering irons with ceramic or spiral heaters are attracting attention. The first models have a heating rate much higher than the second. But at the same time, they are quite fragile; under any influence of physical force (blow, knock, etc.) they easily fail.

Depending on the power of the soldering iron, it is used for soldering in certain areas:

3-10 W. This power is suitable for working with small microcircuits.
20-40 W. Such models are used at home for amateur purposes, for example, for radio.
60-100 W. Applicable for repairs in automotive services or when working with thick wires.
100-250 W. These soldering irons work with pots or large metal.

But here it’s worth mentioning right away that the high power of the tool will directly affect its size. Experts recommend having two soldering irons with different purposes at home. After all, in a household there may be a need to solder both small circuit boards and larger parts.

If you still have at least some skills in soldering, then you can immediately choose a soldering station. Such a purchase has its advantages:

It is possible to regulate the temperature, which means that the risk of damaging parts is minimal.
The temperature of the tip always remains at the same level, which leads to a reduction in the cost of consumables, since the heating element does not burn out.
This soldering iron comes with a stand and a cleaning sponge, which are commercially available separately, but are extremely difficult to find.

But this variety is rational only if the operator is not dealing with soldering for the first time, but has already become well-versed in using an ordinary soldering iron.

If you are working at home for the first time, then it is better to opt for soldering irons with a power of 25-40 W, with a temperature control function.

It is not recommended to buy your first equipment right away with all sorts of bells and whistles.

What should you pay attention to?

Voltage. The standard parameter is a voltage of 220 V, 50 Hz. But experts point out that for safe operation it is better to use models with a voltage of no more than 36 V. For field conditions (a car or other place without electricity), 12-18- and 24-volt models are intended. An alternative option can be used in the form of a gas soldering iron.
Shape of the sting.
As noted above, there are several types: needle, spatula, cone, round, etc. When choosing such an element, you need to focus on personal preferences, especially if you are already familiar with the soldering process. It is best to have several different tips on hand, because you cannot predict what exactly you will have to solder in the future.
Sting durability.

Judging objectively, the heating element is the part of the soldering iron that, according to statistics, most often requires replacement. Therefore, it is best to immediately purchase heat-resistant brands that can easily withstand high temperatures.
Thermal insulation. When working with a soldering iron, hold the tool by the handle. Therefore, it is very important that the handle does not melt during operation and does not even heat up, because then it will be extremely difficult to hold on to it.
Adjustment of tip length. Most home models have a special screw located on the body of the soldering iron. It is he who helps to carry out the process of sting alignment. When the heating element is stripped, its length is somewhat shortened, and this, in turn, affects ease of use.
Stand. During heating of the soldering iron, the temperature of the tip can reach 300 degrees, respectively.
You can’t put such an instrument on the table. Therefore, a special stand is needed into which the unit can be inserted. Usually it can be fixed on any work surface.

A few words in conclusion

When setting up your workplace, you should think about where the tools will be stored. To do this, you can hang shelves on the walls.

Soldering involves constant contact with parts of various sizes, but they also need to be stored somewhere. Therefore, you can create a stacked cash register from square-shaped ceramic pots (the kind used for small plants). Just first seal the holes in the bottom so that the parts do not get lost.

We should not forget that during soldering waste is always generated. Therefore, you must immediately take care of the trash can. After all, if unnecessary remains are scattered on the floor, then you can slip on them.

Source: https://tools.adstores.ru/article/kak-pravilno-vybrat-payalnik

How to correctly and quickly choose a suitable soldering iron for soldering microcircuits

From the author: Hello, dear readers! If you have come across tools for working with microcircuits, you should understand that this is still not an easy process, and it is very important to have special equipment and skills. The most important repair equipment is a soldering iron. However, a number of quite logical questions arise. How to choose a soldering iron for soldering microcircuits? Which one is the best? What power should it be? Now we will answer all your questions.

Characteristics of soldering irons

We immediately draw your attention to the fact that the tool used to work with boards has its own differences and different areas of application; the convenience and comfort of work depends on the correct choice. However, we will not consider soldering stations used by professionals.

The first difference that I would like to draw attention to concerns the size of the soldering iron tip design. The device used for chips is smaller and also uses a different voltage. There are rarely options with special types of tips that are used for soldering, so we will not dwell on them in detail in our article.

The shape of the tip itself is one of the features of such models. The shape and material determine the way and purpose of the device. When choosing the soldering iron needed for a particular job, one of the fundamental factors is its size. For the purpose of soldering microcircuits, the best choice would be a small device that will allow you to carry out a more extensive scope of work.

For each job, it is necessary to select the correct power for soldering contacts without affecting the part being repaired. It is no secret that most users purchase easy-to-use devices that consume household 220 Volts, without the need to purchase additional accessories.

But is it safe? The best voltage for operation is 36 and 12 Volts. There are radio circuits that have parts that can change their properties at elevated temperatures or high voltage; for such microcircuits, 6 Volt equipment is most often used.

Do not forget about the necessary grounding of all equipment. A large number of microcircuits burn out even from constant human energy. To turn on a device whose voltage is less than 220 Volts, it is advisable to install a transformer whose output voltage matches the consumption rating of the soldering iron.

Types of soldering irons for microcircuits

The differences between these types lie in the heating elements. Now let's take a closer look at their advantages and disadvantages.

Nichrome

You probably already guessed from the name that the nichrome thread is the main heating element of the soldering iron. This material is an excellent conductor of electrical impulses, which makes it possible to quickly heat the tip to the correct temperature.

Simple models have a spiral wound around a body that does not conduct electricity. In order to avoid heat loss, the wire is placed in insulators. Such models are usually used in everyday life.

Flaws:

long-term heating of the nichrome element of the soldering iron;
the spare part burns out quickly and has to be replaced frequently.

Ceramic

Used for soldering phone chips with a ceramic heating element, which requires special rods. They are contacts for supplying voltage. At a certain required voltage, the ceramics are heated to the required temperature.

Flaws:

high probability of mechanical damage;
There is no possibility of changing the tip if it is damaged.

Induction

An induction-type spot soldering iron has all the properties necessary for electronics repair. It is a common device in the field of professional chip soldering.

A very important element is the inductor coil. When the desired temperature is reached, heating stops, so it is possible to regulate the soldering temperature only by changing the tip. When it cools down, the device turns on again and heats up. This is achieved by the ferromagnetic properties of the coating.

The disadvantage is the need to replace tips in order to select the optimal heating temperature.

Pulse

A frequency converter with an integrated high-frequency transformer is the main advantage of this type. At first the frequency increases, but after some time it decreases to the operating value.

The tip, as part of the electrical circuit, is connected to the secondary winding, which allows large currents to pass through the winding, as well as the fastest possible warm-up time. When you press the mechanical power button on the device, the heating function is activated.

The disadvantage is that long-term operation does not allow prolonged use of a pulse-type soldering iron for soldering chips.

As you can see, there are several types of soldering tools. They all have their advantages and disadvantages. Do not forget that a soldering iron for microcircuits is a very individual device that everyone chooses based on their personal needs. If you need a more powerful soldering iron, then its dimensions will be larger. Ideally, you would need several types of this device for different types of work.

In any case, remember: no matter which type you choose, any of them requires careful and careful handling. Otherwise, even the most reliable and high-quality device will not last as long as you would like.

Main selection criteria

A couple of tips on parameters that will help when choosing an adequate device for the job:

power. The work is greatly simplified with low power of the product. The optimal indicator for working with boards is 10 Watt; at elevated temperatures there is a risk of burning the circuit. This is worth paying special attention to;
voltage. When powered by 220 Volts, there is a risk of damaging the chip being repaired. Soldering irons are equipped with a built-in power supply that converts voltage up to 36 Volts and even 12 Volts. Devices with this type of power supply should not be neglected;
thermostat. It is a nice addition to some models, helping to maintain a constant temperature.
form factor. The shape of the tip determines comfort when using the tool. The soldering iron tip can be needle-shaped, cone-shaped, spade-shaped, etc. A small tip is usually used for soldering parts. Dense forged copper of high quality is a condition for a worthy product;
The strength of the tip also plays an important role when considering a soldering iron. By choosing the most reliable elements of the device, the tips of which are designed for long-term operation under constant heat, you will not have to replace them too often. The design should be simple and with a quickly replaceable tip.

Hair dryer for soldering microcircuits

Did you know that nowadays radio amateurs are increasingly using a hair dryer to solder chips? It is an excellent replacement for a standard tool. Its immediate purpose is soldering various parts of microcircuits. This is exactly what we will talk about now.

This type of hair dryer is similar in appearance to a construction hair dryer, but its size is smaller and its operating temperature range is more varied. A microcircuit hair dryer works on parts that melt easily. He solders them with heated air coming out of a special nozzle. With the help of this jet of heat, the parts are soldered.

Choosing such a tool requires a special approach. First of all, you should pay attention to the body of the product, which must be durable and resistant to temperatures in order to avoid melting during operation. Do not forget about the presence of a temperature regulator and the power of the soldering hair dryer itself.

Let's return to soldering irons. When selecting a device for work, do not forget about the aspects that are really important for the further operation of the tool:

heat resistance and insulation of the handle;
the material must be high quality wood, this is necessary for durable operation;
The copper tip should be easy to clean and not oxidize, and also be convenient to use. It is desirable that the length of this element is adjustable and complemented by alternatives included in the kit;
the network cable must be insulated, long and elastic;
the fork is removable, or better yet, collapsible;
presence of a thermostat.

If you are a repairman or a radio equipment enthusiast, an electric soldering iron for microcircuits will become one of the necessary tools in your work. Pay special attention to the manufacturer and country of origin. There are many fake instruments in the modern world. The complete set and packaging itself give off a low-quality item.

Models may differ in both price and characteristics. In any case, you will have a reliable assistant, allowing you to apply a thin layer of solder and warm up the parts for further soldering. There are a lot of options to choose from, but as a result, no matter what type you purchase, it will cope with the task. And buy a tripod - it will make your work extremely safe.

Now you know everything about choosing a soldering iron that would suit you and meet all the recommendations. Some professionals unanimously insist that these devices are a passed stage, and soldering stations should be purchased. However, in everyday life, an ordinary soldering iron will be very useful to you. By following our recommendations, you will definitely be able to purchase a device that best suits your needs.

Source: https://seberemont.ru/kak-pravilno-vybrat-payalnik/

How to choose a soldering iron

A soldering iron is a tool designed for tinning and soldering. It is especially appreciated by radio amateurs, but such a device must be in every home. The only difficulty is that for the soldering iron to be really useful, you need to choose it correctly. How to do it?

Depending on the heating characteristics, there are several types of soldering iron, but the following types are most widespread:

Heater type	Advantages	Flaws
Ceramic	durability reluctance to burn out fast heating ability to adjust temperature and power over a wide range	increased sensitivity to shocks the need to use exclusively “native” tips
Nichrome	cheapness unpretentiousness resistance to mechanical stress	slow heating fragility due to the characteristics of the wire, which burns out over time (this point clearly manifests itself only under the condition of frequent and prolonged use of the soldering iron)

Soldering irons with a ceramic heater are the most popular, as they are considered the most advanced today. But it is necessary to remember the capriciousness of ceramics.

If during operation a drop of any liquid gets on the heater, then you can put a cross on the soldering iron. The same applies to unsuccessful instrument falls from the table.

Such “troubles” lead to the heater cracking and the thin wire in the ceramic plate breaking - in general, “symptoms” that are incompatible with life.

Special mention should be made of impulse models. They occupy a special niche among electric soldering irons and are devices that turn on after pressing a button. In a very short time (literally in a few seconds), the soldering iron tip heats up, and when the user releases the button, rapid cooling occurs.

Autonomous gas models are also often found, but most experts do not advise purchasing them due to health risks: the gas does not burn completely, leaving potentially hazardous substances in the air.

How to choose a soldering iron? Power

The main criterion when choosing a tool is power. The larger it is, the easier it will be to process massive parts, but on the other hand, the sooner the soldering iron will become unusable.

The power parameter must be determined based on the type of work expected. The following types of instruments are conventionally distinguished:

3-10 W. Soldering irons are suitable for working with the smallest microcircuits.
20-40 W. A classic amateur radio option, which is also well suited for domestic use.
60-100 W. Such tools are usually found in car repair shops, whose employees have to deal with the unsoldering of thick wires.
100-200 W. Such “impressive” power is quite capable of sealing pots, radiators and other large metal objects.

The power of a soldering iron is directly proportional to its size, so it is advisable to have a couple of soldering irons in stock for different jobs: one smaller, the other larger.

Soldering iron: how to choose? Important Features

When purchasing a soldering iron, you must take into account the following parameters:

Thermal stabilization function. The presence of this feature allows you to perform work as comfortably as possible, while simultaneously ensuring high soldering performance. Thermal stabilization means the permissibility of setting the temperature at the required level, which will be automatically maintained without distracting the user.
Operating voltage. The standard voltage in the network is 220 V (a 10% deviation in both directions is possible). Soldering irons whose voltage does not exceed 36 V are considered the safest. If you have to carry out work in a hard-to-reach place in terms of the availability of sockets (for example, in a car), then you can find a 12-24 V model.
Shape of the sting. In principle, the choice in this case is purely individual: for some it is more convenient to work with a “needle”, for others - with a “spatula”. It is preferable to buy a soldering iron with replaceable tips, and the kit must include several thin flat and conical tips, as well as at least one wide and flat one, designed for working with microcircuits.
Sting durability. The tips have to be changed quite often, which increases the cost of “maintenance” of the soldering iron. Experts recommend choosing heat-resistant tips that are relatively durable due to their low sensitivity to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. One of the best material options is wrought copper.
Stabilization of the tip length. It is good if the soldering iron has the ability to adjust the length of the tip, since due to regular filing with a file, it decreases. Moreover, the process invariably accelerates: each time the sting will have to be filed away more and more. This is why stabilization is needed: after each “procedure” for shortening the tip can be restored by simply sliding it out of the body. It is easy to recognize soldering irons that support this feature by the presence of a special screw.
Features of the handle. Since the soldering iron is a hand-held tool, it should be comfortable to hold. It is important that the handle is securely isolated from the heater, thereby minimizing the risk of injury. A high-quality soldering iron in this sense can be easily recognized by the presence of holes on the metal body near the handle: this technique allows you to reduce the total thickness of the thermally conductive surface and increase heat transfer to the air. Simply put, the more holes the manufacturer is generous with, the more effective the thermal sink is. If there are no such holes, then the case should be as long as possible so that the heat has time to dissipate before reaching the user’s hand.

A properly selected tool is the key to quality work. Therefore, you should carefully consider the choice of a soldering iron so that it will serve for more than one year, fully realizing its purpose.

Source: http://kakvybrat.su/payalnik.html

How to choose a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

In recent years, it has become very popular to install water supply and heating systems from polypropylene. Due to the relative simplicity and low cost of materials, almost every homeowner does the soldering of pipes with his own hands.

But not everything is so simple; performing such work requires some skills, and most importantly, a suitable tool.

In this material we will give recommendations on how to choose a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes, so as not to pay too high a price or, conversely, not to buy a low-quality cheap product.

Design and types of soldering irons for polypropylene

In fact, soldering welding machines are ordinary electric heaters with built-in automatic control and temperature regulation. Their main task is to maintain the optimal temperature for connecting fittings to a polypropylene pipe, which is 260 ºС.

The soldering iron consists of a body with a handle, inside of which there are electrical parts that ensure its operation. At the front of the device there is the heater itself; various nozzles are attached to it, adapted for different pipe diameters. All soldering irons for polypropylene pipes work on the same principle: the electric element heats the working surface to the temperature set by the thermostat, and then turns off.

When it cools by 2-5 ºС, the thermostat or electronic circuit turns on the heater again until it is completely warmed up, and so on. The machines for welding PPR pipes differ according to the type of heating element; there are two varieties:

a cylindrical heater, the nozzles on it are installed like clamps on a pipe;
with a heater in the form of a flat plate with holes for attaching nozzles. Because of this configuration, the device got its name - an iron for welding polypropylene pipes.

Important. Neither the order of work nor their quality depend on the type of soldering iron. It's all about soldering conditions and convenience, and also about the skill of the performer. Often the choice of tool depends on personal preference, but this comes after gaining some experience.

Recommendations for selection

From the user’s point of view, the selection of a device for joining polypropylene pipes is carried out according to the following criteria:

soldering iron cost;
thermal power;
heating element shape.

Based on price, the devices can be divided into 3 groups:

cheap, Chinese and Russian production;
the middle price category is represented mainly by Turkish appliances;
expensive products from European manufacturers, the most popular are Czech and German soldering irons.

The recommendations here are simple. To assemble your own home heating system, a machine for welding polypropylene pipes made in China will do. Experienced craftsmen say that their reliability margin is definitely enough for 1-2 systems; this is quite enough for a beginner who has decided to install pipes at home, and even let a friend use the device.

Advice. Do not use Chinese soldering irons for commercial orders. This can only be done as a last resort and only with experience. The point is not even in the reliability of the device, but in its ability to accurately maintain the temperature. The degree of error in cheap devices can reach 10 ºС and higher, which is why the connection will be of poor quality, and you will not be able to check it visually. Such mistakes are unacceptable when working for the Customer.

For novice craftsmen at the beginning of their career, a Turkish-made polypropylene welding soldering iron is quite suitable. The error amplitude of the “Turks” is small, and in terms of reliability they have proven themselves to be quite good. The average cost of the products makes them quite popular even among companies involved in the installation of utility networks. Economic calculations of some companies show that it is more profitable for them to replace 3 Turkish devices than to buy one German one.

Well, real professionals know that a German or Czech soldering iron will serve them for a long time, and most importantly, will ensure high quality welded joints of polypropylene pipes. If a master values his reputation, then his choice is obvious.

About the thermal power of the soldering iron

It is a mistake to think that high power of a welding machine is the key to success.

No, it definitely won’t interfere with your work, but why pay extra money for a 2 kW heater if you can easily get by with 700 Watts? In order not to overpay, it is recommended to choose the power of the soldering iron based on the type of work to be done, or more precisely, the diameter of the pipes being connected.

The larger it is, the higher the power required to heat the joint parts. We offer the following power gradation depending on the size of the pipeline, taken from the Czech manufacturer DYTRON:

Ø16—63 mm – 680 W;
Ø16—75 mm – 850 W;
up to Ø125 mm – 1200 W.

If you plan to install polypropylene heating in private houses, where the pipe diameter rarely exceeds 50 mm, then a power of 700 W is sufficient. Most craftsmen choose their welding device based on these considerations. However, you still need to take into account the soldering conditions, and here the shape of the heating element and even the weight of the device may be important.

This is in the videos, of which there are many on the Internet, the connection of pipes with fittings is made on a table, and the soldering iron rests on a stand. The process goes without a hitch, but in real life, not everything is so smooth. Most of the work is done not on the table, but in inconvenient places where the pipe soldering iron must be held in weight, while simultaneously putting on and removing parts from it. It’s not always possible to work with several attachments at once, but it’s easy to burn your hands on them.

In hard-to-reach places, craftsmen work with one nozzle, so in such cases, a cylindrical soldering iron design is preferable. It allows you to attach the nozzle to the very end of the heating element. The weight factor of the tool is also important, so take it into account when making your choice.

Soldering iron attachments for polypropylene pipes

As a rule, nozzles for a soldering iron of polypropylene pipes come with it in one set. The minimum configuration is 3 nozzles of the most popular diameters: 20, 25 and 32 mm. More expensive versions contain elements with a diameter of up to 63 mm inclusive, and also include a special pipe cutter, tape measure and protective gloves. However, over time, the nozzles wear out and still have to be replaced.

The elements are cylindrical products made of copper or aluminum alloy coated with a non-stick Teflon layer. Therefore, when choosing nozzles, pay attention to the quality of this layer and do not try to save too much on your purchase. The cheaper the product, the thinner the non-stick layer and the faster the nozzle will fail. This is characterized by the appearance of smoke, polypropylene residues on the work surface, and parts sticking to the point that they become difficult to remove.

Quick Guide to Soldering

The process of connecting polypropylene pipes with fittings is relatively simple and therefore attractive to many home craftsmen. The work is carried out in the following sequence:

prepare the pipe by soldering: to do this, you need to cut it evenly, clean it and, if necessary, remove the layer of aluminum foil;
plug in the soldering iron and set the temperature to 260 ºС to join polypropylene pipes;
when the device warms up, as indicated by its light indicator, put the pipe and fitting on different sides onto the corresponding nozzle;
After clearly maintaining the specified time, carefully remove the parts from the welding device. At the same time, rotating them is unacceptable!
connect the parts by immersing the pipe into the fitting up to the pre-drawn mark without rotating, the connection is ready.

The time that you need to wait after you put the parts on the iron for welding a polypropylene pipe depends on its diameter. The table below shows data for different pipe sizes:

You will learn more about the techniques for soldering PPR pipes, tools and various nuances that arise during the work process by watching the video:

Conclusion

When thinking about which soldering iron is better to choose, rely primarily on the purpose of its purchase. Budget options are suitable for one-time work performed at home. Such devices can be purchased for almost $30. Well, to start a career or professional activity, you will have to buy a more expensive and more reliable heater. Do not forget that the Customer always pays attention to the performer’s instrument.

Source: https://cotlix.com/kak-vybrat-payalnik-dlya-polipropilenovyx-trub

How to choose a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes for your home?

Polypropylene pipes are gradually replacing traditional metal products. Their popularity is due to their low cost, ease of installation, and maintainability. Most home craftsmen can assemble the plumbing themselves.

Cutting polypropylene is much easier than metal, and you don’t need bulky equipment to join the pieces - just buy a compact soldering iron.

The device quickly heats the ends of the pipes, which makes it possible to connect individual sections using fittings.

Thanks to the use of polypropylene pipes, it is easy to install a water supply system of any configuration. Creating a diagram of any complexity is not difficult. That is why a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes is used not only by professional plumbers, but also by practical owners. In order to choose equipment that will be convenient to use, it is important to understand the principle of operation of the device and its technical characteristics.

Features of using a soldering iron

The official name of the equipment is welding machine. However, it is popularly called a soldering iron by analogy with the mode of operation or an iron due to its specific shape. The working part heats up to 300 °C and heats up the matrix nozzles located on both sides.

One matrix is responsible for heating the outer part of the pipe, the second is responsible for heating the inner part of the fitting. Both elements are held on the soldering iron at the same time, then quickly joined. Polypropylene cools, forming a strong, permanent connection. This is how all sections of the pipeline are connected. Most models are equipped with a stand, so the soldering iron can be installed and soldered on the desktop. This reduces the burden on workers and ensures comfort during work.

All that remains is to connect only those pipe joints that are located in hard-to-reach places. Then the device is removed from the stand, soldering is carried out at the place where the pipeline is laid. To prevent burns, the technician holds the device by the handle. However, the equipment is quite bulky, and it is not always convenient to hold it suspended. That is why it is more often used for stationary work, and the finished sections of the pipeline are laid in accordance with the diagram.

Another type of welding machine is a cylinder on which matrices are attached. An undoubted advantage of such models is the ability to secure the nozzles in any position: at the ends or in the middle part of the cylinder.

Thanks to the design features, it is possible to work with the most difficult areas, including places with difficult access, close to the wall, the presence of all kinds of obstacles, and complex room geometry. The tool itself is compact, so it is easy to take it anywhere.

Such models are equipped with a cord of at least two meters, which allows the technician to move freely around the work area. When stationary use is necessary, the soldering iron can be mounted on a hinged bracket.

If you follow the soldering technology and have a good welding machine, the results are reliable, and the service life of the pipeline can exceed 100 years. However, before you begin to understand the process itself, you should choose a suitable soldering iron.

Recommendations for choosing soldering equipment

Before purchasing equipment, it is important to determine for yourself how often you plan to use it, what volume of pipes you will solder, and what maximum heating level is required. Having decided on the main points, you can move on to the main technical indicators:

Power - all equipment for welding polypropylene pipes should be divided into two large categories. Soldering irons up to 1000 W are equipped with one heating element, so you will need to wait a little before starting work. Equipment with a power of up to 2000 W is equipped with two heating elements. Depending on whether one or two heating elements are connected, the heating time of the equipment changes. For professional use, high speed is required, so it is worth choosing more powerful models. For a home craftsman who decides to replace the pipeline himself, a soldering iron with one heating element will be sufficient.
Solder diameter. Depending on the purpose, polypropylene pipes come in different diameters. To create pipelines for various purposes, it is necessary that the soldering iron kit contains dies of the required size. The greater the number of attachments, the wider the scope of application of the equipment. The presence of matrices with a diameter of 20-63 mm allows you to work with water supply, as well as the drainage system in the apartment. For wider use of the equipment, it is worth purchasing a professional model, the diameter of the nozzles in which will reach 110 mm.
The maximum heating temperature of most soldering irons varies between 260-300 °C. When choosing a tool, it is important to consider not only the maximum value, but also the ability to adjust the heating. It is convenient when it is possible to set the temperature from 50 °C, adjusting the degree of heating of the tool to the materials that need to be welded. For example, a polyethylene pipe melts perfectly at a temperature of 200 °C, while polypropylene pipes require a minimum of 260 °C.

When choosing a soldering iron, you should pay attention to the presence of additional elements. Additional operating comfort is provided by the presence of light indication of power and heating level. Professional soldering irons are equipped with a special display that allows you to set the heating temperature at the selected level. This provides a definite advantage compared to cheaper models, since in the latter the level of heating of the working part is determined intuitively by the master.

Models equipped with a built-in thermostat are more economical to use and are able to maintain the temperature at the same level by periodically turning off the heating elements. Cheaper soldering irons have to be periodically disconnected from the network yourself. This is not always convenient; it constantly distracts you from cutting, installing, and welding the pipeline.

Popular brands

When the main purchase criteria are determined, the question arises about choosing a manufacturer. Home craftsmen and professionals are wondering whether it is worth overpaying for the brand, whether it is possible to purchase a good soldering iron from an unpromoted company. Below are manufacturers whose instruments are widely popular.

Rothenberger is a European manufacturer occupying a leading position in the production of specialized equipment for construction and production.

Its products are in demand among home craftsmen, private plumbers, large construction organizations, and management companies servicing apartment buildings. The manufacturer's assortment is varied.

It features everything from a soldering iron for the DIYer to high-tech welding machines that cost tens of thousands.

Gerat specializes in the production of equipment for metalwork and plumbing work. The brand appeared relatively recently, but managed to quickly win the hearts of professionals and amateurs. Affordable cost and versatility of equipment provide the ability to use soldering irons from the manufacturer in a variety of fields.

Valfex - the company began work as a manufacturer of plastic pipes, fittings, and other accessories for creating pipelines from polymers. Today the company also offers a wide range of installation equipment. The range includes amateur models, as well as professional sets with a rich set of attachments, packed in a practical case.

The manufacturers presented above work in the field of plumbing fixtures, accessories, and equipment. However, soldering irons for installing polypropylene pipes are also produced by companies that develop power tools. When choosing equipment from such brands as PATRIOT, Enkor, Caliber, it is easy to choose an inexpensive but high-quality model.

Which soldering iron to choose

When planning to purchase equipment for home use, you should not reach for an expensive soldering iron with a huge number of attachments. To assemble a pipeline yourself in a country house or apartment, an inexpensive amateur model is enough. Serious investments will be justified only if you plan to make pipeline installation your profession.

The video below will help you decide on the best option.

Source: https://zapodlico.ru/kak_vybrat_payalnik_dlya_polipropilenovyh_trub_dlya_doma

How to choose the right soldering iron? — Build Tool

12.06.2018

A soldering iron is the simplest tool that is used with equal success by both radio amateurs and ordinary homeowners. Soldering irons offered today may differ in the type of design and their power ratings. We’ll tell you in more detail which soldering iron to choose for your home and how to use such a tool.

Classification of soldering irons

An electric soldering iron is a hand-held device that is used to join metal components by soldering them together. To join metals, suitable solder can be used, which is made from nickel, lead, copper and tin.

When heated by this tool, the alloys turn into a liquid state, after which they are firmly connected to each other at the molecular level.

Such an electrical device will consist of the following components:

metal tip;
heater;
rod;
holder;
cord and plug for connecting to the network.

Modern models may have various additional boards and microcircuits that allow you to control the operation of such a tool, protecting the soldering iron from overheating or heating the tip to a temperature set by the user.

Depending on the type of heater, such a tool can be divided into three main groups:

Spiral ones, which are durable and practical, however, have a significant drawback: they take a long time to heat up, which leads to some complication of soldering. Such a tool consists of a working ceramic rod, inside of which there is a heating coil made of thin conductive wire.
Ceramic soldering irons heat up almost instantly, but have a shorter service life. A fragile ceramic rod can break, it is susceptible to mechanical damage and over time conducts voltage worse, starting to heat up poorly.
The pulse tool appeared relatively recently and today is used primarily for soldering circuit boards and microcircuits. This soldering iron has a complex operating principle, it heats up quickly, is easy to use, and thanks to the power adjustment, it can be used to work with various metal alloys. We only note the high cost of such equipment, which somewhat limits its distribution in everyday life.

Soldering iron categories

Depending on their power, soldering irons are usually divided into four categories:

Power 3−10 W. This tool is specially designed to work with small chips. But it can be difficult to use it in everyday life for soldering various metal elements, wires and radiators.
Soldering irons with a power of 20−40 W. This tool is most widespread today; it is used by both professional radio amateurs and ordinary homeowners for domestic purposes. The design of such a tool is compact, and the use of soldering irons that are small in power does not present any difficulty.
Power 60−100 W. This tool is designed for unsoldering thick wires. High-power soldering irons are indispensable in car repair shops and when working with various industrial equipment.
Devices with a power of more than 100 W are used for soldering radiators, pans and various metal elements. They are intended for professional use and are practically not used in everyday life.

If you choose such a soldering iron for household use, we recommend choosing a tool with a power of 20-40 W.

Tool selection criteria

When choosing such a tool for household use, you need to pay attention to the size and power of the specific model. It is power that is the determining factor in the choice of such devices.

In recent years, models of pulsed soldering irons have appeared on the market that allow you to adjust the power, which significantly expands the possibilities for using the tool.

When choosing a tool, pay attention to the following characteristics:

Supply voltage. The most popular models today are those operating on a 220 V network. However, if necessary, you can choose special camping models that work perfectly at a voltage of 36 V.
The type of heating element is also a determining factor when choosing a specific soldering iron. The most widespread today are ceramic, spiral, as well as modern pulse models.
Shape and durability of the tip. Such a sting can be made in the form of a blade, needle or cone. Some options have the ability to change the working nozzle, which makes it easy to solder wires, large metal parts and microcircuits.
In high-quality models of soldering irons, the nichrome tip is made of copper, which makes it easy to clean it from carbon deposits and solder particles.
The presence of thermal insulating handles. If you plan to work with a soldering iron for a long time, the heat from the heating element can be transferred to the handle, which is not insulated, which limits the length of time you can work with the tool.
Pay attention to the power cord, which should be long, flexible and double insulated. The best models have a collapsible power plug, which simplifies subsequent repairs.

Equipment and additional functions

If initially soldering irons were fairly simple power tools that did not have any additional functions, today customers are offered powerful and reliable models that boast advanced functionality at affordable prices.

For example, we recommend choosing soldering irons equipped with a thermostat. The presence of such a thermostat will allow you to easily work with metals with different refractoriness indicators.

In particular, the presence of such a function will be in demand among novice radio amateurs, who, without relevant experience in working with such a tool, often find it difficult to correctly determine how long it takes to warm up the tip to the required temperature.

When soldering, you will need to constantly turn the tool on and off, which will prevent it from overheating. Today, the best models are equipped with a special function for maintaining a constant temperature, which helps protect the device from overheating and eliminates the need to constantly turn the device on and off.

Also included in the package you can find various holders that allow you to securely fix the soldering iron, increasing ease of use. We also note the presence of various tips on the tip , which are made in various shapes and allow you to use such a tool for soldering microcircuits, melting and joining metal parts and working with plastic.

models and manufacturers

Today, there are various types of soldering irons on the Russian market, which differ in their manufacturer; they are intended for household or professional use.

But we recommend that you refuse to buy a Chinese instrument. The quality of such models does not meet modern requirements; among other things, using such equipment is not always safe.

If we talk about the most popular models of soldering irons on the domestic market, we note the following:

FIT 60 502. Inexpensive model, 25 W power. This tool is intended for household use; it does not have a regulator, and the equipment leaves much to be desired.
Svetozar SV 55 316. This model has an extended delivery set, and thanks to the power of 42 Volts, you can use this tool to work with various metals. The only drawback is the massive handle, so working with such a tool for a long time will not always be convenient.
Diold PP 120. This is a whole soldering kit, which has an extended delivery set, and the power of the tool is 100 W. This tool is intended for professional use, so it has an appropriate price.
Svetozar SV 55 335. A soldering station with a power of 48 W, which is characterized by the highest tip heating temperature and allows you to work with microcircuits and refractory metals. There is a corresponding power regulator, and the set includes a reliable stand and replaceable handles. The only drawback is the high cost, which can reach 5,000 rubles.

Source: https://pgmk96.ru/izgotovlenie/kak-pravilno-vybrat-payalnik.html

1

How to choose a soldering iron - power and size

These 2 parameters are closely related, but sometimes there are exceptions. For regular home soldering, you don't need a large soldering iron. An excellent option would be if the distance from the tip of the tip to the wire input is 25 centimeters.

The diameter of the tip should be within 4 mm with a power of up to 25 W. With the help of such a soldering iron it is convenient to solder not only various parts, but also microcircuits. It is ideal to have 1 more soldering iron, but a more powerful one (40-60 watts).

It can be used for tinning boards and soldering massive contacts.

Powerful soldering irons (about 100 W) are used when soldering wires in car repair shops. Even more powerful (about 150 W) are used for sealing pots and radiators - large metal objects. A 500-watt soldering iron is the most powerful and is used exclusively in construction.

If you are already an experienced solderer, then you may need a soldering station. With its help, the quality of soldering improves several times, and most importantly, the work is done much faster. In addition, the soldering station has many advantages:

the presence of a convenient bath and stand for cleaning the soldering iron;
possibility of adjusting the heating temperature;
maintaining a constant temperature in the tip.

The first 2 are the most important, because such accessories would have to be purchased separately for the soldering iron.

2

How to choose a soldering iron - tip shape

It is also necessary to pay attention to this parameter when choosing a soldering iron. In stores you can now find soldering irons with a wide variety of tips: needle, cone, spatula. It is impossible to advise which one to choose: everyone solders with what is convenient for them. It would be a good idea to have a set of blades of different sizes. A correctly selected tip is the key to successful work. We recommend that you buy several flat and thin conical tips, as well as one large one for desoldering microcircuits.

This is another very important characteristic of a soldering iron. Experienced soldering workers know how often they have to change tips. Pay attention to heat-resistant tips that do not react to prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

4

How to choose a soldering iron - important details

In addition to the above criteria, there are little things that simply cannot be forgotten. Don't forget about the thermal insulation of the handle. It depends on how well it is protected from the heating part. The soldering iron tip is adjusted using a screw on the body. This technology is not provided on every soldering iron - you need to pay attention to this. Regular cleaning of the tip wears it out and you will have to deal with this.

5

Additional tools for soldering iron

Before you can start soldering, you need to prepare your work area. The main thing is good lighting. It is equally important to properly equip the table specifically for soldering. It contains strips on which the soldering iron is placed. The surface is covered with asbestos. This is necessary for safe work with acids and solvents. You will also need these tools:

tweezers;
stationery knife;
thin awl;
wire cutters;
file;
syringe needle.

Do not buy cheap Chinese soldering irons - they will burn out or simply explode when heated. A normal soldering iron should have a resistance of 2 kilo-ohms. When choosing a soldering iron on the market, immediately buy a multimeter and measure the resistance of the soldering iron you like, and only after that buy it.

If we talk about reliability, then the best option would be a regular Soviet soldering iron. Domestic soldering irons have a very long operating time. Chinese soldering irons costing $4-5 will be no worse. When choosing a soldering iron based on power, keep in mind that the lower it is, the longer the device will last.

Please note that if you are soldering microcircuits, be sure to use grounding. This will help avoid possible static electricity shock. Even a small spark can cause irreparable damage to the microcircuit.

Source: https://sovetclub.ru/kak-vybrat-payalnik

Despite the fact that the modern market is represented by a wide range of different soldering irons, many do not know how to choose the right tool so that it is convenient to solve the tasks.

Sellers in specialized stores cannot always fully describe all the pros and cons of each model, so it is better to look for the answer on the Internet. Before purchasing a soldering iron, you need to familiarize yourself with its characteristics and try to figure out which of them are the most important and which are the least.

It is also worth paying attention to the country of origin. So how to choose a soldering iron so as not to make a mistake?

Important parameters

Each tool has its own parameters and characteristics that determine its functional purpose and possibility of use. The soldering iron is also no exception. When choosing a specific model, you need to focus on the following parameters:

Power and size

Many people believe that the larger and more powerful the tool, the better. However, it is not. If it is required directly for pipes, then the power and size parameters should be the same, if for microcircuits, then different. There are models with power less than 10 W and higher than 500 W.

Operating voltage

The most popular models have operating voltages of 6, 12, 36 and 220 Volts. Of course, it is better to choose a soldering iron powered by a power supply of 220 V. As for safety, an operating voltage of 36 V is the best option. If you want to purchase a soldering iron for your home with the lowest voltage, you will also have to purchase a step-down transformer.

Type of heating element

Modern devices are mainly produced with built-in spiral heaters, which are a ceramic or mica tube with a wire coating on top. Some models also have ceramic heaters, however, their service life is not very long and the price is quite high.

Shape of the tip

There is a large selection of different stings. It is best to choose a soldering iron that has the ability to change the tip. In this case, you can purchase a tool for yourself, regardless of whether it will be intended for home use or for processing microcircuits.

It is necessary to choose devices that have a similar function. This is explained by the fact that after some time the solder begins to destroy the tip , causing notches, reducing it in size, etc.

Soldering iron type

If you can’t choose the right tool, it’s best to purchase rod or pulse models.

An electric soldering iron is considered the best. It is universal and optimally combines all the necessary parameters.

Selection of soldering irons for home use

According to generally accepted rules, there are no special requirements or recommendations for soldering irons for home use. The main thing is that the tool has a wide range of applications, is reliable and safe. For home use, rod soldering irons are the best option. Their main advantages are reliability, durability and practicality.

The disadvantage of such a tool is that you have to wait until it warms up before using it. There is an alternative - a pulse soldering iron, which heats up instantly, has an ergonomic design and, in addition, it is very convenient to use. However, such a device is used mainly for soldering microcircuits , and its cost is much higher than that of ordinary rod models.

When choosing a device for home use, you need to focus on parameters such as practicality and convenience. Therefore, taking them into account, the following requirements are imposed on such instruments:

The optimal power should be 25-40 W.
The sizes should be small, this makes them convenient to use.
Operating voltage: 220 V.
Handle material. Tools with plastic handles are quite light, but overheat very quickly, while ebonite handles are very heavy. The best option is a wooden handle. It is very light and has a low thermal conductivity coefficient.
The electrical cable must have double insulation.
The optimal tip is straight, made of high-quality materials and tightly fixed in the soldering iron.
Rosin can be purchased dry or in an alcohol solution.
Solder for soldering should be lead-tin, having a wire thickness of 34 mm.
It is advisable to purchase a solution of orthophosphoric acid , which will be needed for cleaning and tinning oxidized parts and spare parts.

If the soldering iron will be used very often at home, then the best choice would be a soldering station . It costs much more, but its kit includes baths for cleaning the soldering iron and special stands. There is also a tip temperature adjustment.

Choosing a soldering iron for pipes

To install a long-lasting and reliable pipeline, special tools are required. One of them is a soldering iron, which has the following requirements:

Specialists use a device with a power of 1-2 kW. But if a soldering iron for pipes is purchased for work in an apartment, then such power will be excessive.
For small-scale work, it is better to choose a soldering iron with a power of 680 W. It is perfect for pipes with a diameter of 16-65 mm.
To solder plastic pipes with a diameter of 65 -90 mm, you will need a tool with a power of 850 W.
If pipes have a diameter of more than 100 mm, then it is better to choose models with a power of more than 1 kW.

When choosing soldering irons for pipes, you should pay attention to the presence of various nozzles. They are made from both regular and metallized Teflon.

Choosing a soldering iron for microcircuits

Most users prefer to use soldering stations, but some radio amateurs prefer to use hand-held IC soldering irons. The following requirements apply to them:

The maximum power of the tool should not exceed 25 W.
A thin tip with a diameter of 2.5-3 mm should be used.
It is necessary to purchase models that have tip temperature adjustment so as not to damage the microcircuits.
Experts do not recommend using silver solder. It is better if it has a low tin content.
Any flux can be chosen, regardless of the components or manufacturer.

It should be remembered that when working with microcircuits, be sure to use grounding to avoid getting shocked by static electricity. Even a small spark can cause irreparable damage to microcircuits.

As for the choice of country of manufacture, high-quality devices are represented by the Czech Republic. They have the best price-quality ratio , and the kit includes everything you need for a wide range of work. Quite good models are presented by Turkish manufacturers. However, it should be remembered that there are a lot of Chinese-made fakes of poor quality on the market.

Thus, choosing a soldering iron is not an easy matter. It is not so easy to find a device that meets all the requirements. According to most experts, it is best to purchase soldering stations for work. They are comfortable and practical. However, for household use, a regular soldering iron will come in handy.

Source: http://stroymaster-base.ru/instrumenty-i-materialy/kak-pravilno-vybrat-payalnik.html

Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes - which is better, how to choose an iron

» Pipes and chimneys » How to choose a soldering iron for welding polypropylene

Heating and plumbing made of polypropylene (PP-R) outperforms other plastic systems in an important criterion - the price of materials and components. The second cost item - installation of networks - many homeowners reduce to zero in a simple way - they carry out the work themselves. To weld joints, you purchase 2 devices - a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes with a set of nozzles and special scissors. It remains to be seen which welding machine is best to choose for home use.

Design of welding machine for PPR

A hand-held electric soldering iron (craftsmen call it an “iron”), designed for soldering plastic pipes and fittings, consists of the following parts:

housing with a transformer block, thermostat and controls, equipped with a handle;
a heating element with a power of 500 to 2 kW is installed in front of the case, depending on the model;
stand and power cable connected to a regular 220 volt outlet.

Using the regulator, you can set the heating temperature of the mandrel within 0300 degrees

Reference. In the operating instructions, manufacturers indicate that the device is suitable for joining various plastic pipes. In practice, electric soldering irons are used when installing PPR systems; polyethylene, metal-plastic and PVC pipelines are connected in other ways.

Heating of polypropylene parts is carried out using nozzles with a diameter of 1663 mm (household series), coated with a Teflon non-stick layer. The appearance and principle of operation of the device has a certain similarity with a conventional iron:

The user turns on the heating and sets the required temperature with the regulator, for polypropylene – 260 °C.
When the platform with nozzles reaches a preset temperature threshold, the thermostat turns off the heating element.
During the process of soldering the pipes, the surface of the “iron” begins to cool, so the automation activates the heating again.

Teflon-coated nozzles consist of 2 parts - a pipe is inserted into one, a fitting is inserted into the second

For welding parts made of PP-R, a deviation from the established limit of no more than 5 degrees is allowed; polypropylene is heated to the melting threshold. Exceeding the temperature leads to a change in the structure of the material - the plastic “flows” and fills the flow section of the pipe.

Insufficient heating results in a poor-quality connection that loses its tightness after 3-12 months. How to properly weld a polypropylene joint, read in a separate material.

Types of "irons"

Hand soldering irons for plastic pipes are divided into types according to the following criteria:

The shape of the heating element can be rod or xiphoid. The nozzles are attached to a cylindrical platform Ø32 mm with special clamps, and on a flat platform they are twisted through holes.
Thermostat design is mechanical or electronic. The latter more accurately maintains the temperature for soldering.
The number of attachments attached to the electric heater at the same time is from 1 to 4 pcs.
Purpose. Professional and amateur models differ in body color; the specific color is chosen by the manufacturer himself.

Block attachments are placed on the core mandrel, secured according to the principle of a clamp

Note. Welding machines for professionals, for example, Dytron Polys P-4, are often equipped with a microprocessor controller that maintains the temperature within 260 ± 1.5 ° C. The second convenient option is a sound signal, notifying about the end of heating, the moment of rearrangement and the cooling time of the joint.

As a rule, amateur series of soldering irons are equipped with a mechanical thermostat and manual adjustment. Electronics and sound notification are a sign of a professional-class device (in addition to color and cost).

Let us characterize the various forms of heating elements:

a straight rod and sword-shaped platform is used for soldering PPR pipes with a diameter of 1663 mm and simultaneously accommodates 2-4 nozzles;
for socket welding of lines over 63 mm, an “iron” with a spherical element is used, to which 1 pair of nozzles is attached;
An angular cylindrical platform is needed for working in hard-to-reach places, the maximum number of attachments is 2.

Czech device Dytron Polys P-1b with an angular heating rod for shoe nozzles

Welding machines are rarely sold “naked”. Typically, the kit includes 3 “running” nozzles - for pipes of 20, 25 and 32 mm. The extended set includes all standard sizes in the range of 1663 mm. The quality and reliability of the nozzles depends on the thickness of the Teflon layer. The coating of cheap elements wears off quickly, and polypropylene begins to stick during the heating process.

Reference. A complete set of soldering equipment also includes pipe cutters, fixing clamps, wrenches for attaching nozzles, a building level and even gloves.

Which soldering iron is better - rod or sword-shaped?

Judging by the reviews of master installers, the shape of the heater does not affect the quality of the connection of small-diameter pipes. But other factors play a role:

if we compare equipment of the same price category, a soldering iron for polypropylene with a flat platform will cost less;
a sword-shaped element, where you can put 3 pairs of nozzles, is more convenient to use on a table than when assembling ready-made heating sections in a private house;
the rod platform allows you to attach the nozzle to the end of the heater and work in cramped conditions, getting to hard-to-reach places;
The block attachment on the clamp is easier to replace during the installation process.

Advice. Balancing an electrical appliance by weight plays an important role. Check how comfortable the device fits in your palm and take a more suitable model.

Popular brands and equipment prices

The range of “irons” for soldering PPR pipelines is very wide, so it is not easy to create a reasonable rating of products. We propose a different approach: we list the manufacturers of soldering irons that appear most often in reviews on various forums:

The highest price category is Rothenberger (Germany), Dytron (Czech Republic), Rekon (Britain, produced in China). Prices range from 235,400 USD. e.
Electric soldering irons of average cost - CANDAN (Turkey), Valtec (Italy - China), PATRIOT (USA - China), SUPER-EGO (Spain). Prices – from 55 USD. e.
Other devices under $50, produced in the countries of the former USSR and China. There are a lot of manufacturers: Forte, Brima, Caliber, Enkor, Resanta and so on.

The prices of welding heaters greatly depend on the configuration. A set of high-quality nozzles with standard sizes up to 63 mm inclusive costs more than any Chinese soldering iron. Compare cheap devices with more expensive ones, see the video:

The second factor is the reliability of the device design. For example, an amateur version of the Czech brand Dytron Polys P-1b will cost 155 USD. That is, professional Dytron Polys P-4a already costs 215 USD. e.

Recommendations for choosing a soldering iron

Craftsmen who have been working with polypropylene for a long time do not need our advice - they have learned from their own experience which tool is better to choose. Another thing is for beginners and ordinary homeowners who want to save money on installation once and solder the heating with their own hands. You should select a soldering iron according to the following criteria:

power;
price;
heater geometry and number of installed nozzles;
convenience of a tripod (stand).

Advice one. To practice welding and soldering a home heating system made of polypropylene, it is enough to buy an inexpensive Chinese machine. It will easily withstand installation work and will serve subsequently, in case of repair or alteration. We will reveal some of the nuances of using a cheap tool further.

The minimum tool kit (left) includes only a soldering iron, 3 nozzles and a wrench with a screwdriver

Let's move on to the rest of the recommendations:

The iron needs sufficient power to quickly react and heat the platform upon contact with the pipe and fitting. For a device with one nozzle, 600 W is enough for welding pipelines with a diameter of up to 40 mm.
For 3 nozzles and pipes Ø1632 mm, choose a soldering iron with a power of up to 1.2 kW, no more is needed.
If your budget allows, buy a Turkish-made welding device, for example, CANDAN. The soldering iron is reliable and of relatively high quality, tested by craftsmen.
To work in uncomfortable conditions, it is better to take the rod version of the device.
Don’t skimp on nozzles - buy 2-3 of the required sizes, but of good quality.
Make sure that the soldering iron does not dangle in the tripod, this reduces the convenience of working.

Now about saving by renting equipment. For a beginner, renting an iron is not profitable - it’s easier to buy a cheap device of the lowest price category. But sometimes large polypropylene sellers hold promotions - when you buy a certain number of pipes, they give you a soldering iron for temporary use for free.

If you decide to choose an inexpensive soldering iron model, you need to take into account one nuance: such a tool often fails with the heating temperature, the error reaches ±10 degrees. The way out of the situation is simple: using a contact thermometer or pyrometer, you adjust the real temperature experimentally, taking measurements and adjusting the device with a manual regulator.

Comment. Do the same when working with polypropylene of unknown origin. Such material often melts prematurely or, conversely, requires more intense heating.

The problem with a dangling tripod is also completely solvable. The stand is screwed to the table with a clamp, and the soldering iron is fixed in the socket with a self-tapping screw, as was done above in the photo. And lastly: the power cord of cheap models quickly gets twisted near the case, and the copper wires break. It is necessary to monitor the wire or tighten it with electrical tape.

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