What kind of soldering irons are there?

Which soldering iron is better to choose for working at home?

Not only ordinary craftsmen, but also professional radio amateurs sometimes think about how to choose a soldering iron. This tool makes it possible to firmly fasten wires, repair equipment, desolder elements from electronic boards and do a lot of other useful manipulations. It is very important to know about the main indicators for choosing this device.

Heater type

When thinking about which soldering iron to choose for your home, you should take into account that all devices of this kind are divided into two types: gas and electric. The gas device is best used for repairing distribution boxes.

One of its advantages is completely autonomous operation , that is, its operation does not require electrical energy, which is useful for electrical installation work.

In addition, this tool can be used like a hair dryer for thermal shrinkage.

The “disadvantages” of this type of soldering iron include the laboriousness of processing microcircuits, and when gas is burned, substances are released into the surrounding space that can harm the human body, so it is not recommended to work with such a device for a long time. You should give preference to an electric soldering iron if there are no electrical problems.

There are the following types of soldering irons powered by electricity:

1. Spiral. They are considered the most affordable and durable. The disadvantages include a significant heating time.
2. Ceramic soldering irons. They are characterized by a higher price and are quite fragile. But such soldering irons heat up very quickly. This is the best solution if you have to work often and quickly.
3. Pulse. They also heat up quickly. It is recommended to use such a device for working with printed circuit boards and microcircuits. But impulse devices are considered one of the most expensive, and they are used mainly for these tasks.

There are also so-called soldering stations. This is the optimal choice of soldering iron for a radio amateur, as it will be very convenient to work with. In addition, they often have a nichrome tip.

Power indicators

This is the main criterion for which soldering iron is better to choose. In this case, you need to pay attention to the following points:

1. A power rating of up to 10 W is suitable for processing simple boards and microcircuits.
2. Within 20−40 W. The most optimal option from the entire rating of similar equipment for domestic use.
3. You need to choose devices with a power from 60 to 100 W for soldering wires.
4. Models over 100 W are not suitable for use at home, because their application is specific (soldering metal parts, radiators, etc.).

In addition, power has a direct impact on cost. Therefore, it is not advisable to buy an expensive and powerful soldering iron for home use.

Additional functions

When choosing a soldering device, you need to pay attention to a lot of other factors. Additional criteria include the following:

1. The handle of the tool must have reliable protection from heat. The optimal solution is considered to be an element made of wood. Plastic handles heat up quickly and can melt with prolonged use, which is often a nuisance. Ebonite ones are also not bad, but they are heavier, which is very annoying, for example, when working with microcircuits.
2. The tip of the device must be made of copper. It is much easier to clean and process. It would be great if the device comes with replacement tips. It is better for beginners to give preference to straight elements, as they are considered universal.
3. The soldering iron power cable must be long enough, flexible and have high-quality insulation.
4. Ideally, the plug of the device should be collapsible. Although this is a small thing, it indicates the quality of the device and makes repairs easier.
5. Soldering irons from trusted manufacturers are always sold in a special case. The package includes cleaning sponges, stands and other items.
6. Experts advise buying devices equipped with a thermostat. This will make it possible to independently regulate the heating intensity of the device.
7. An automatic shut-off feature will also be a useful addition. Moreover, this will have a positive impact on work safety.

Source: https://pochini.guru/sovety-mastera/kakoy-payalnik-luchshe

Types of soldering irons

A soldering iron is a device that is used to melt solder (tin) and apply it to the contact point of the parts that are being soldered.

You can also use a soldering iron to tin the object, that is, cover it with a thin layer of solder.

Soldering irons are distinguished by the method of heating the working part (tip) into:

• Electric soldering irons - the tip is heated using electricity.
• Hot-air soldering irons - the surface to be treated is heated under the influence of a thin stream of hot air.
• Arc soldering irons - heating the working element is heated under the influence of an electric arc between the tip (tip) and the electrode placed inside the soldering iron.
• Socket and hammer soldering irons are soldering irons whose tips are attached to fairly long metal handles and are heated by external heat sources.
• Gas soldering irons are a gas burner.
• Infrared soldering stations - soldering is carried out using infrared radiation

The most common are electric soldering irons. They mainly differ in power and type of heater.

Electric soldering irons also include pulse soldering irons. A special feature of pulse soldering irons is that the tip heats up at the right moment for work. When working with such a soldering iron, the start button is pressed and the tip quickly heats up; if you release the button, the working part quickly cools down.

   

Types of heater

According to the type of heater, electric soldering irons are divided into soldering irons:

• With a ceramic heater - this soldering iron uses ceramic rods that heat up under the influence of electricity.
• With a nichrome heater - these use a spiral of nichrome wire.

Types by power

By power, electric soldering irons are conventionally divided into:

• Low-power - from 15W to 40W. Mainly used in radio electronics for “fine” soldering
• Average power – from 40W to 100W. Used for soldering and tinning wires and fairly large parts
• Soldering irons with power over 100W. Used for heating and soldering massive objects with high heat transfer

Please note: Clean yard and house - high pressure washing!

Soldering iron tip

A very important element of the soldering iron is the tip (the part with which soldering is performed). The stings come in various shapes - in the form of a beveled edge, a cone, a flat screwdriver, a needle, an ax. The most common is the blade in the form of a flat-head screwdriver. The solder is held well on such a tip, and the sufficiently large area of ​​the tip allows the part to be heated in a short period of time.

If the soldering iron tip is made of copper, without any coating, then its shape can be changed - by sharpening it with a file or forging it with a hammer. Before starting work with a new soldering iron, it is necessary to tin the iron. To do this, you need to heat up the soldering iron and, while hot, remove oxides from the tip using a small file. After this, dip the hot tip into rosin and solder. If this is not done, you will not be able to melt the solder with such a soldering iron, as the tip will turn black.

If the tip is coated with nickel, the so-called “fireproof” tip, then it cannot be processed.

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Types of soldering irons for soldering

Almost all of us have an electric soldering iron at home. You can't do without it anymore. In the age of electronics, something always needs to be soldered. Most often it is a broken wire or a simple electronic part. Sometimes we even solder plastic, which is quite convenient. Fast and reliable.

Previously, a soldering iron, like an iron, was heated over a fire, so they could not do work that required precise temperatures. Unless you tin the samovar. Now everything is different; there is an endless variety of household soldering irons.

What types of soldering irons are there?

The most common are electric. Similar devices with external heating are still used in industry. There are also hot-air soldering irons, they are also called soldering stations.

This station combines two types of soldering tools. Electric soldering iron and hot air soldering device. They are used for different purposes.

What is best for home use?

We are used to electric soldering irons without temperature control. He looks the same as he did many years ago. A small tube from which protrudes a copper rod inserted into an electrical winding. When current passes, the winding heats the rod. It is also called sting.

Recently, instead of the usual wooden ones, plastic handles have been made to make the soldering iron more comfortable to hold. But soldering irons with a regulator are in fashion these days. This is still the same device, but supplemented with a temperature controller, which is regulated by changing the current strength in the winding.

It is worth noting that the temperature changes smoothly and setting the required value is quite simple. Such devices are usually equipped with additional temperature sensors for more precise adjustment.

What to choose

It is very difficult to answer the question which soldering iron is better. It is not at all necessary that the one that is more expensive will satisfy all needs. I would recommend a combined soldering station, which has both a regular electric soldering iron and a hot air device.

Essentially, this is the same hair dryer, only with a higher heating temperature and precise control of the air flow at the outlet. And as we know, you can’t do without a good hair dryer on the farm.

Therefore, by purchasing such a device you solve several problems at once. You can solder, heat, and melt if necessary.

If there is no such need, then purchase a regular 100-watt soldering iron, which will be quite enough. The greater the power, and it is expressed in watts, the higher the operating temperature.

The more convenient it is to work

When wondering how to choose a soldering iron, you need to follow a simple principle: you need to buy what is convenient for you personally. The simplest and cheapest option is a small soldering iron without additional electronic devices and accessories. But this is only if you are not planning complex work in the future.

And if you plan, then buy an inexpensive soldering station. Now this is the name of a regular soldering iron with a regulator. It’s easier to work with a small-sized soldering iron; it’s quite lightweight, but not every job can handle it.

How to solder

On the Internet you can find many different instructions on how to solder with a soldering iron. The process is quite simple. You just need to know the melting temperature of the solder you are going to use. It is necessary to take into account that each metal uses its own solder.

It is most convenient to solder non-ferrous metals. You can also solder iron. In this case, additional chemicals or special soldering compounds are used. Each metal has its own soldering temperature. It depends on the thermal conductivity of the material.

The easiest way to solder is non-ferrous metals, such as copper. It uses lead-tin solder and flux - ordinary rosin.

It is better to use modern, so-called no-clean fluxes. They do not leave marks after soldering and can be easily removed with alcohol. Alcohol is also necessary for degreasing surfaces before soldering.

Let's start soldering

First of all, heat the soldering iron to the required temperature. If it is without a regulator and temperature sensor, then wait 5 minutes after turning it on. At this time we prepare the surfaces. Clean with fine sandpaper and degrease with alcohol. Then we apply a thin layer of flux, it serves as an oxidizing agent.

Sometimes flux is included in the solder. The soldering iron tip must be clean and free of dark deposits that appear during the soldering process. To clean the tip, you can use sandpaper or a special sponge.

The tip also needs to be treated with flux, and then solder applied to it if small surfaces are connected. If you need to solder large areas, then the solder is heated directly in the soldering zone and evenly applied to the metal.

Security measures

To work with any electrical device, safety precautions must be observed. An ordinary soldering iron is a high-risk device, including because it can cause a fire.

Do not leave the soldering iron turned on unattended. There are many photos on the Internet of soldering irons that caused a fire.

You need to work in a well-ventilated area and try not to breathe fumes from solder and flux. These are toxic and harmful substances. In addition, solders contain lead, which is especially harmful to health.

Soldering iron photo

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Source: https://rem-serv.com/vidy-payalnikov-dlya-payki/

How to choose the right powerful modern soldering iron

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

When choosing a specific soldering iron model, you should pay attention to its configuration. For example, the best models can be sold with a small plastic case, which can subsequently significantly simplify the soldering of microcircuits and various metal parts.

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.

We can recommend that you pay attention to the products of Czech and Turkish manufacturers, whose offer has proven itself to be the best and has the optimal combination of cost and product quality.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

General recommendations

You should not skimp on the quality of the instrument you purchase. Remember that reliable, versatile and easy-to-use soldering irons cannot be cheap, so preference should be given to models that have the appropriate equipment, are different in power and have various controls that make working with the tool easier.

When purchasing, it would also be useful to inquire about the availability of a warranty, which for high-quality models can be 2-3 years. But we would not recommend purchasing Chinese soldering irons that do not have a warranty, since the quality of such a tool will be far from ideal.

By correctly choosing the soldering iron model you need, you can significantly simplify your work with such a tool, and the purchase itself will serve you for many years without causing any difficulties during operation.

Source: https://ObInstrumentah.info/kak-pravilno-vybrat-moshhnyj-sovremennyj-payalnik/

Which soldering iron to choose for your home: tips for choosing, review of models

When answering questions about which soldering iron is better to choose and what to pay attention to, you should first of all take into account the specifics of the work being performed. The technical characteristics of soldering tools are quite varied, despite the fact that complex parts and accessories are not included in the package. However, in order to buy a quality product, you need to familiarize yourself with its modifications and design features.

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Types of soldering irons

There are two types of soldering irons: gas and electric. A gas soldering iron is a necessary tool for carrying out work in places where there is no power supply. To refill this tool, propane, butane or isobutane is used. The main element of a gas soldering iron is the burner, which provides the required operating temperature.

Compact size, light weight and use of the tool in any conditions, regardless of the availability of power supply, are the main criteria for choosing this model. However, this is not the best solution for indoor work. Using a gas burner in such conditions is quite dangerous, since substances harmful to the body, gas residues and combustion products accumulate in the air. In addition, the work is carried out with open fire.

In such cases, when you need to work indoors and in conditions where there is no power supply, you can use an electric soldering iron with an autonomous power source (nickel-cadmium battery). With it you can perform work for two hours without recharging.

Electric soldering iron

When choosing a soldering iron, you must be guided by the reliability, safety and universal capabilities of the device. Among the main types of electric soldering irons, rod and pulse models of the tool are distinguished.

Thus, a pulse soldering iron is often used for soldering microcircuits. Such devices heat up quickly enough; they are easy to use due to their ergonomic design. Moreover, the cost of such products is much higher than other soldering tools.

As for the rod ones, we can note their practicality, reliability, and versatility. The models meet all standard operating requirements. However, the time required to warm them up is much greater than that of pulsed models.

It is better to choose electric models taking into account their features and significance:

• power;
• dimensions;
• operating voltage;
• the type of heating element used;
• tip shape and material;
• additional criteria.

If soldering irons are not intended for a specific specific job, but are chosen exclusively for home needs, then the problem of choosing a tool can be solved using two methods:

1. By purchasing a universal tool that has average power.
2. Purchasing two different soldering irons for different jobs, for small and large objects.

Based on the intended purpose of the soldering iron, the tool differs in the following power characteristics:

1. From 3 to 10 W - used for soldering small parts (microcircuits).
2. From 20 to 40 W - universal power. Used for most jobs.
3. From 60 to 100 W - this power is necessary for unsoldering thick cables and other large elements.
4. From 100 to 250 W - used when working with large metal objects.

A characteristic feature of soldering irons that consume high power is versatility and reliability. Their use for household work is inappropriate.

Speaking about the dimensions and shape of the tool, it can be noted that these criteria affect the ease of its use. The smaller the soldering iron, the more convenient it is to use. Moreover, if it has a short handle, then the position of the hand is much closer to the hot iron. This deficiency can cause burns. In this regard, it is necessary to choose the best options that will allow you to perform the work efficiently and eliminate the possibility of injury.

The fastening of the tip in the design of the soldering iron must be strong. It should be smooth and straight. The quality of soldering and ease of use of the tool in most cases are determined by the shape of the tip. It can be made in the form of a spatula, cone, needle and other modifications. A soldering iron will be convenient and practical if it has a set of tips with different sizes and shapes.

A suitable material for making the tip is dense forged copper. There may be nozzles made from other materials on the market, but they are much worse than copper ones.

Copper gives the sting resistance, which affects its comfort and durability. When carrying out long-term work, it is important to choose a material that is resistant to high temperatures over a significant period of time. This will eliminate frequent replacement of the tip and defective products.

Among the necessary features of soldering iron designs are:

1. A function that allows you to adjust the length of the tip.
2. A function that allows you to replace the tip.

Various materials are used to make a soldering iron handle. Wood has the best thermal insulation properties. Ebony handles are weighty and heavy. Plastic ones are lighter, but they get very hot during operation.

The body of some models is equipped with openings that allow hot air to escape freely. In addition, an apron is installed on the products, which does not lengthen the handle, but increases its surface, which entails stronger heat dissipation and the elimination of discomfort.

Operating voltage selection

The most common models of soldering irons are products with an operating voltage range of 6, 12, 36 and 220 Volts. There is no consensus on the best options.

It is quite logical that the most convenient one may be a soldering iron with a mains voltage of 220 V. It can be used without any restrictions when connecting to household outlets.

As for safety, it is worth paying attention to the 36 V option. However, its use requires a step-down transformer.

Heating elements can be spiral or ceramic. The use of the first option is more common because it is more reliable and lower cost.

The operation of a ceramic heater should be as gentle and careful as possible. Damage to the tool, mechanical impact and deformation can damage it. Trapped liquid can also lead to its failure: a temperature difference will lead to the destruction of the ceramic element. The advantage due to which soldering irons with a ceramic heater are purchased is the short heating time.

If you work with soldering irons constantly, then it is best to purchase a soldering station. This will provide the ability to regulate the required temperature of the heater and maintain it at a constant value. Such devices are equipped with stands and cleaning sponges that will be needed during the soldering process.

Choosing a soldering iron for microcircuits

A number of requirements for the model of the machine for soldering microcircuits are presented below:

1. Must have a maximum power of no more than 25 W.
2. The package should include a very thin tip (diameter from 2.5 to 3 mm).
3. The soldering iron must have a temperature control function, which will prevent damage to the microcircuit.
4. Silver solder is highly undesirable for use. It is much more optimal to use solder that contains tin.

If you frequently pack various microcircuits, it is necessary to provide grounding. This will eliminate shock and exposure to static electricity. Even the smallest spark can damage all the work done.

Soldering iron for soldering plastic pipes

When choosing such a tool, you should pay attention to what equipment it is equipped with and whether it has a variety of attachments. The material for these devices can be metallized or regular Teflon. However, it is more preferable to use metallized.

Selection of required capacities:

1. The power value of a professional device ranges from 1-2 kW. For work at home (in case of repairs or when performing landscaping work), the use of such a tool is unnecessary.
2. For not too large-scale work, it is worth using devices with a power of 680 W. They are well suited for repairing and installing pipes with a diameter of 16-65 mm.
3. To solder plastic pipes with a diameter of 65-90 mm, you should use soldering irons with a power rating of 850 W.
4. With a diameter of more than 100 mm, craftsmen need models from 1 kW.

Along with the soldering tool, you should take care of purchasing: a stand, a file, wire cutters, tweezers, a scalpel (stationery knife), and an awl of different sizes.

When choosing a stand for any type of tool, you should approach it as responsibly as possible in order to prevent injuries and ensure fire safety.

Popular manufacturing companies

To successfully choose a soldering iron, you need to pay special attention to which company produces this or that model:

1. The most popular products on the domestic market are those produced by Czech manufacturers. They have excellent quality and price indicators. Quite reliable and durable.
2. Soldering irons from Turkish manufacturers are quite good devices.
3. As for Chinese models, not everything is clear here, since in most cases low-quality products predominate.
4. Russian-made soldering irons are available for sale in a wide range. Due to their low cost, they are in demand among consumers. Speaking about the quality of products, we can note their convenience and reliability. They are well suited for everyday tasks.

There are various models of soldering irons on the market. The most popular and popular models include:

1. FIT 60502 is the cheapest option. Presented in the price category from 300 rubles. Power indicators – 25 W. The model allows you to perform various household tasks. There is no regulator.
2. SVETOZAR SV-55316-40-H4 – the model is supplied to the market as a set. Has a power of 40 W. Suitable for various household works. The soldering iron is equipped with a massive handle. Price from 800 rubles.
3. DIOLD PP-120 – the device is supplied as a set in special boxes. It has a power of 100 W and a temperature of working surfaces within 250 degrees. Costs about 1500 rubles.
4. SVETOZAR SV-55335 is a soldering station with a power of 48 W. Operating heating temperature – 450 degrees. It is a complex design that allows you to adjust operating parameters. The price of the device exceeds 5,000 rubles. The package includes a special stand.

When choosing one model or another, it is necessary to take into account the frequency and specificity of the work performed. You can also use the following tips:

1. No matter what you need a soldering iron for, remember that good models won't come cheap.
2. In addition, the seller, who must provide a guarantee for the purchased product, is of no small importance.

“How to choose a soldering iron”

Source: https://pro-instrymenti.ru/svarochnye/kakoj-payalnik-luchshe-vybrat/

How to choose a soldering iron: important parameters, choosing a tool for the home, pipes and microcircuits

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.

Adjusting the length of the tip

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.

Soldering iron. Types and work. Application and how to choose. Peculiarities

A soldering iron is a fairly simple, convenient and effective device. It is used to connect parts made of plastic and metal. It is often used when soldering wires, installing pipes, tinning or burning. It is indispensable when connecting small parts.

The product is widely used not only in everyday life, but also in many industrial sectors. These are industries that work with electronic and electrical circuits, plastic pipes and a number of other products. For each type of activity, devices with certain characteristics are used.

They are selected taking into account the type of soldering, the solder used and the materials being joined.

Kinds

Soldering irons can be classified according to the heating method.

Nichrome

These devices are made using nichrome wire. It is to this that voltage is applied to subsequently release the required amount of heat. The current can be supplied alternating or direct. In the simplest types of nichrome products, a wire spiral is wound around a dielectric body. It contains a tip. The nichrome spiral is often coated with insulating material to reduce heat loss.

The advantages of such a device include low price, unpretentiousness and resistance to mechanical stress. However, this device has disadvantages: long heating time, the possibility of burning out the coil, which significantly reduces the service life of the product. However, such models are used for small jobs.

Ceramic

These devices are made using ceramic rods. When current is supplied to the contacts of the rod, it heats up.

The advantages of such a device include a long service life, no risk of burnout in case of intensive use, and fairly rapid heating. However, such models require the use of only original tips, and the rods themselves, made of ceramics, do not tolerate impacts.

Induction

The induction coil is a tip heater. The advantages of such a device include automatic maintenance of the required soldering temperature, the absence of temperature sensors, and complex control microcircuits. At the same time, such devices can only maintain a given temperature, as a result of which completely different tips will be needed for different cases.

Pulse

These devices are made using a high-frequency transformer, as well as a frequency converter.

The advantages of such devices include very fast heating and ease of use. However, there are also disadvantages: such devices are not suitable for long-term work.

Structurally similar devices can be:

• Rodzhnev . They are traditional types of devices. Products are made in the form of a rod. The handle has a working part with a sting. Such products are good for working with small parts.
• Pistol . Such products are widely used when working with electrical wires.

• Soldering stations . These are the most complex products, which consist of a working element and a control unit. According to their characteristics they can be;

— infrared – works through infrared heating;

- thermal air - heating is carried out by heating air masses;

— digital — heating is performed by reducing the transformer voltage. These devices are ideal for precision work, for example when repairing electrical circuit boards.

These devices are also divided into the following groups:

• With continuous heating.
• With periodic heating.
• Abrasive.
• Ultrasonic.

Soldering iron device

The copper rod is heated by a heater made of a nichrome spiral. It could also be special ceramics that conduct current. When using a nichrome heater in a product, the power is determined by the cross-section of the wire. The rod is an important part of the product, because it is this end that comes into contact with the melted material. Therefore, it is often called a sting.

The rod is installed in a metal tube. A winding made of insulating material is used to insulate the heating element. Mica or fiberglass can be used as it. A nichrome thread is wrapped around the top. A channel is drilled in the device holder through which the electrical cord is passed. It is through it that the current is supplied to power the product. The holder is made of heat-resistant plastic or wooden material.

Operating principle

Soldering irons have a fairly simple operating principle. When the device is connected to the electrical network, the current is directed to a spiral made of nichrome. Due to the significant resistance of the nichrome element, a large amount of heat is generated. It is transferred to a copper rod. The rod is usually heated to a temperature in the range of 300-350 degrees Celsius. The tip of the device (copper rod) melts the solder and also heats the parts being soldered.

Other types of devices have a similar operating principle:

• In pulse soldering irons, the converter initially increases the voltage frequency (18-40 kHz). Afterwards, the high-frequency transformer lowers the voltage to the working voltage for the soldering iron. The tip is connected to the secondary transformer winding, which allows the highest currents to pass through it and provide instant heating. The specified heating is carried out only at the moment of pressing the start button, the rest of the time cooling occurs;
• Induction devices are made using an inductor coil. The product is equipped with a tip and coated with ferromagnets. It is with its help that a magnetic field is formed, which ensures heating of the core. When the required temperature is reached, heating stops. If the temperature drops, heating begins again. This is caused by the ferromagnetic properties of this device.

The soldering iron is widely used:

• Low power devices (up to 40 W) are used for soldering electronic components using tin-lead based solders.
• Soldering devices are an indispensable device for electromechanics and electricians.
• Electric soldering irons of higher power (from 100 W) are used for soldering and tinning of large parts.
• To work with small parts in industries related to the production and repair of microcircuits, stations and pulse devices are most often used.
• Soldering devices are also used in various industries, workshops and everyday life when carrying out soldering operations. Most often they are used to connect electrical wires, pipelines, and so on.

How to choose

• The soldering iron must be selected taking into account what parts need to be soldered. In most cases, these products are used for extending wires, soldering antenna connectors or simple circuits, and so on. For these works, a product with a power of 25-40 W is suitable. Such devices are distinguished by their low price. However, they have limited use. For professional tasks, you should choose specialized soldering irons with high power and the function of regulating the soldering temperature.
• To perform work with massive parts, for example, soldering radiators, you should choose devices with a power in the range of 100-200 W. To wire resistors, it is recommended to use ceramic devices with a power of 3-10 W with a nickel tip.
• When selecting, you also need to pay attention to the shape and material of the tip. The dimensions of the device will also be of considerable importance. A device with a straight heat-resistant tip is considered the simplest and most versatile. It is recommended to choose a tip made of copper material, because it is easier to clean.
• It is better to select a device for home with a spiral heater. Options with a ceramic heater are more capricious. In addition, they cost an order of magnitude more.
• For frequent work with microcircuits, devices with a power of up to 20 W should be used. Thin stings should come with them. It is recommended to take a closer look at products with temperature control functions.

How not to use a soldering iron

• If you lent it to someone and this person does not pay it back, then a soldering iron, of course, can help. However, it is better to do without it. Otherwise, problems with the law may arise.
• Do not dip the device in water. This is fraught not only with electric shock, but also with failure of the product. The tip may crack or the winding may burn out. As a result, you will need to go to the store for a new purchase.
• Do not ignore the switched on soldering iron. There is a high risk of fire.

Related topics:

Source: https://tehpribory.ru/glavnaia/instrumenty/paialnik.html

Electric soldering iron for microcircuits: how to choose

An electric soldering iron for microcircuits and radio components is the main tool that is used for soldering by both professional circuit designers and radio amateurs. The main characteristic of soldering irons is power; depending on it, they are conventionally divided into the following types:

• low-power professional soldering iron with an operating range from 3 to 10 W, used for soldering, desoldering (disassembling) planar microcircuits, SMD elements and other miniature radio components;

Low voltage 8 watt soldering iron model ZD-20

• Medium power devices (from 20 to 40 W) are widely used by radio amateurs. You can desolder, unsolder or solder microcircuits or SMD elements with such a soldering iron, but you should not do this, since they may fail due to overheating;

A typical amateur radio instrument is the ZD-200C 25W model.

• electric soldering irons with a power of 60 to 100 W, they are used to unsolder cable wires;

100 Watt model from the manufacturer TLW

• heavy-duty devices (from 100 to 250W) are used to repair large metal structures, such as radiators or pots.

How to choose

Obviously, it is necessary to select a tool taking into account the tasks that will be presented to it. Buying a small, low-power soldering iron, which is designed for soldering microcircuits, and using it to repair a radiator will not be entirely correct. He simply cannot cope with this task.

Accordingly, when you need to desolder microcircuits, you can choose a heavy-duty soldering iron for this, but the radioelements will not work after that. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to pay attention to ensuring that the power meets the assigned tasks.

Soldering Equipment Review

When we have decided on the power of the device, we move on to choosing its type. The most common of them are pulse and rod type. Each of these designs has its own characteristic features, expressed in certain advantages and disadvantages.

Pulse type devices

The main advantages are instant heating, compact size, affordable price.

Considering that the tip of this soldering iron is the secondary winding of the transformer, it is not recommended to use it for soldering MOS microcircuits, as well as elements critical to static charge.

Pulse soldering iron

Rod type devices

Rod devices differ according to the type of heating element:

• a heating element that uses nichrome wire;

Nichrome heating element

• ceramic heater, it significantly exceeds nichrome analogues in heating speed and the range in which power and temperature are regulated. The only drawback is that the heating element is quite fragile; dropping the device almost always damages it;

Ceramic heating elements

• induction heater, its operating principle is as follows: the tip, coated with a ferromagnetic layer, is heated using an inductive coil. Having reached a certain temperature (Curie point), the properties of the coating change, which stops the heating process. As the temperature decreases, the process repeats.

Thanks to this principle, it is possible to automatically maintain the required temperature without special equipment.

Disassembled induction soldering iron

The picture shows:

• A – sting;
• B – inductor (induction cartridge);
• C – body.

It is difficult to say which of the rewritten types of soldering irons is the best, since each of them is designed to perform specific tasks. As already mentioned, you need to be guided by the power of the device, in addition to paying attention to how convenient it is to use.

Standalone devices

In addition to the types listed above, mention should be made of autonomous type devices, that is, those that can operate without being connected to an electrical outlet, these include:

• a gas soldering iron in which the tip is heated by the flame generated by the combustion of gas. In essence, this is an ordinary gas burner, which uses nozzles for soldering;

Gas type soldering device

• battery-powered soldering irons;

Mini soldering iron with independent power supply

Soldering stations

It is much more convenient to solder microcircuits from a board with a soldering iron using a soldering station; for example, without it, it is almost impossible to replace a video chip in a BGA housing with your own hands. The advantages of using this device are so obvious that it is easy to list them:

• a wide range of tip temperature settings reduces the likelihood of element failure due to overheating;
• maintaining a certain temperature level extends the service life of the tip;
• each soldering station is necessarily equipped with a stand and a bath in which you can place a cleaning sponge;
• An air dryer greatly simplifies the desoldering of microcircuits with a soldering iron.

Soldering station photo

Soldering stations are considered professional equipment, and the criteria for their selection require a separate article. In everyday life, the use of such complex and expensive electronic devices is impractical; it is better to use power regulators, which are easy to make yourself.

Power regulator circuits.

The figure shows the circuit diagram of a simple power regulator.

Scheme: homemade power regulator using a thyristor

Symbols on the diagram:

• X1,X2 – connectors for connecting a soldering iron;
• VD1-1N4007, you can install any analogue designed to operate with a voltage from 300 to 600 Volts and a current of at least 1A;
• VD2 – installation of any thyristors with an allowable forward voltage of 300V or more is allowed, for example, KU201L, KU202N, etc.;
• C1 – electrolytic type capacitor with a nominal value of 4.7 µF 100V;
• R1 – variable resistance from 30 to 47 kOhm;
• R2 – 30 kOhm resistor.

This circuit allows you to smoothly adjust the power in the range from 50 to 100%.

The only drawback of this power regulator is that during operation it causes interference in the electrical network. To avoid this, you can install ferrite rings on the cable or assemble another circuit that does not create interference.

Temperature controller circuit using triggers

Designations:

• X1,X2 – connectors to which the electric soldering iron is connected;
• VD1-VD4 – Diodes KD209, you can use analogues with a reverse voltage of 300V and a current of 1A;
• VD5 – KD521;
• VD6 – KS191;
• C1 – electrolytic type capacitor 100uF 25V;
• C2 – 0.033 µF;
• C3 – 1uF;
• R1 – 120 kOhm;
• R2, R3, R4 – 12 kOhm;
• R5 -120kOhm;
• R6 – 1kOhm;
• DD1 – K176LA7;
• DD2 – K176TM2.

The above scheme is based on common parts, which significantly reduces its cost. With its help, you can use a soldering iron with a power of 40W to solder microcircuits without fear of overheating them.

For safety reasons, a homemade power regulator should be placed in a housing made of any insulating material.

Price overview

To summarize, let's consider the price level in various localities of the Russian Federation and the CIS for the 40-watt model of the ZD-200C soldering iron.

Locality	$	Locality	$
Moscow	6,00	St. Petersburg	6,00
Donetsk	6,50	Kazan	6,40
Minsk	6,20	Odessa	6,20
Kharkiv	6,10	Vladivostok	6,35

The table shows that the price of a soldering iron for microcircuits in Russia is practically no different from its cost in Minsk, Kharkov or Odessa.

Source: https://www.asutpp.ru/elektricheskij-payalnik-dlya-mikroshem.html

What are the differences between a pulse soldering iron and a regular one?

When choosing a soldering iron to perform any radio engineering work or to simply connect two wires together, an inexperienced consumer will be faced with a huge variety of these devices. In specialized stores today you can find electric and gas, mains and battery, induction and pulse devices, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

In this article we will talk specifically about pulsed soldering iron models that appeared relatively recently. We will tell you about all their features, pros and cons, and also compare them with traditional devices.

Why do you need a pulse soldering iron?

This original pistol-shaped device is designed for dismantling and soldering parts of a wide variety of electrical and electronic devices. The main difference between a pulse soldering iron and a conventional or induction soldering iron is the tip. Here it is made of thin copper wire. A low voltage current is used to heat it, thereby minimizing electrical energy consumption.

In addition, current is supplied only when a soldering iron is used. That is why it is called impulse.

Design features and soldering iron control

As mentioned above, the pulse device resembles a pistol in appearance. Its L-shaped shape made it possible to hide all control modules in the handle, which is very convenient to use.

The process of managing the device itself is very simple. There are two buttons on the body:

1. The first is intended for stepwise voltage regulation. To set the required parameters, just select one or another level.
2. The second button starts the tip heating process. It must be constantly held during operation so that the tool remains hot.

Some models of soldering irons are equipped with a miniature display that shows the selected tip heating level.

Source: https://SpecInstrumenta.ru/elektroinstrument/payalnik/v-chem-otlichiya-impulsnogo-payalnika-ot-obychnogo.html

How to choose a soldering iron

In the arsenal of almost any craftsman you can find a soldering iron. It is used in the repair of a wide variety of electrical equipment. A fairly common question is how to choose a soldering iron. There are a variety of designs available on sale, which are characterized by a specific area of ​​application and ease of use. Let's consider the main selection criteria in more detail.

How to choose a soldering iron

Description of the device

Before considering the question of which soldering iron to choose for your home, you need to pay attention to the design features of the tool. Almost all of them are represented by a classic design, which has the following elements:

1. Heater. Soldering of materials is carried out using high heat. A high temperature is required to melt metal. When choosing, attention is paid to this parameter.
2. The tip or rod acts as the main working element. It is designed to transfer heat and distribute the alloy used.
3. The holder or handle should be comfortable. It can have a wide variety of shapes and be made using different materials.
4. To transmit electricity there is an electrical cable with a standard household plug.

Soldering iron device

After connecting the device to the household network, the heating element transfers heat to the rod, which is made of a material with a high thermal conductivity.

To work with most metals, the rod is heated to a temperature of 450 degrees Celsius, after which the solder can be distributed over the surface. Liquid solder floats into various gaps, thereby ensuring a reliable connection.

You can choose a soldering iron taking into account various criteria, which we will discuss in more detail later.

Main selection criteria

The choice of soldering iron is carried out taking into account some of its features. Examples include the following:

1. Power.
2. Type of heater used.
3. Additional functions.
4. Dimensions.
5. Brand popularity.

You can determine which soldering iron to choose for soldering circuit boards, taking into account the characteristics of the soldering being carried out. For example, there are special models of soldering irons that have a small tip. Due to this, it is possible to carry out delicate work with fragile materials and power sources.

Soldering iron with a small tip

Power

When making a choice, you need to pay most attention to power. When considering this indicator it is worth considering:

1. When working with the simplest microcircuits, a device with a power of up to 10 W is selected. Such a power of a soldering iron will not be enough for soldering wires, but it will be convenient to solder with microcircuits.
2. Soldering iron power from 20 to 40 W is a universal option, suitable for solving everyday problems. When choosing, take into account the presence of a function that is responsible for adjusting the degree of heating.
3. To solder wires, a device with a power of about 60-100 W is required. You need to choose such a tool if you often solder materials with metal cores of various types.

For amateur work, it is not recommended to choose soldering iron models with a power higher than 100 W. They are used only for working with radiators and are characterized by high cost and difficulty in operation.

Heating element type

When choosing a soldering iron for your home, you should take into account that all such devices are divided into two large groups: electric and gas.

Electric soldering ironGas soldering iron

If an option is required for soldering distribution box wires, then it is recommended to pay attention to gas models. They are convenient due to their high autonomy, since electricity is not required to power the device. There is also a mode that allows you to use the device as a hair dryer for thermal shrinkage.

However, gas appliances cannot be used to work with electrical microcircuits. At the time of soldering, combustion of gas may produce harmful substances.

Electrical devices heat up quickly and can only be used when electricity is available. All of them are divided into several groups according to the type of heating element:

1. Spiral ones are the most widely used, they are inexpensive, practical to use and can last for a long period. The main disadvantage is that it takes too long to heat up. Suitable for home use due to its low cost. When choosing it, you need to take into account the dimensions.
2. Ceramic ones are made using expensive and fragile material. Design features ensure rapid heating, but even with a slight impact the structure can fail. When choosing, you should take into account the short service life.
3. Pulse ones are characterized by the fact that they can heat up at high speed. It is recommended to choose a similar soldering iron for cases where you need to act accurately and accurately. The complexity of the design determines its higher cost.

Soldering iron with spiral type heating elementCeramic soldering ironPulse soldering iron

Recently, there are a large number of different soldering stations on sale. They are also characterized by versatility and practicality, some of the functions considered.

When choosing a soldering iron, attention is also paid to additional functions, which may differ significantly. You can select a suitable model by taking into account the following points:

1. The handle must have good protection against overheating. As a rule, wood versions are characterized by higher performance; plastic heats up much faster. In the manufacture of this element, ebonite, which is characterized by high weight, can be used.
2. It is recommended to purchase devices with copper tips, as they are the easiest to clean from carbon deposits. There are versions on sale with replaceable tips, which can have different shapes. For beginners, it is easiest to work with a straight tip shape.
3. The cord must be flexible with increased insulation, which provides the required protection of the cores from mechanical damage.
4. When choosing, attention is paid to ensuring that the fork design is collapsible. This is due to the fact that during maintenance it is possible to disassemble the structure and replace damaged elements.
5. High-quality products are supplied with a special case, as well as a stand for the tip and a special sponge for cleaning the working tip.
6. Recently, soldering irons with a thermal regulator have often been chosen. Their scope of application is very wide, since the temperature can be adjusted depending on the characteristics of the work being done.

Soldering iron heating control device

Options with a protective mechanism that can eliminate the possibility of overheating of the structure are very popular. Due to this additional function, a long service life of the device is ensured.

The best soldering iron does not always have a lot of additional features. You can also select specific types of designs designed to work with electronics and radio equipment.

Useful tips for choosing a soldering iron

When considering the common question of how to choose the right soldering irons, you can pay attention to some recommendations.

Useful tips are as follows:

1. For soldering metal products, a device with a power of 100 W is selected.
2. For small chips, choose a 30 W device.
3. Beginners can choose the 60W model.
4. The sting can have a variety of shapes. The most common models are those with a tip in the form of a cone and a needle, a wedge and a rod with a beveled edge. If soldering is carried out frequently, then you can choose a model with replaceable tips, as it is characterized by high functionality. However, such kits are somewhat more expensive than conventional tools.
5. The tip is often made of copper, but such material can be coated with various compositions to increase thermal conductivity and some other qualities. Options with a copper tip and nickel or aluminum coating are chosen extremely often today.

If work is carried out far from a power source, then you need to pay attention to wireless models. They can be powered by a built-in battery or small batteries. However, the autonomous power source determines the low heating rate of the working part.

Source: https://stankiexpert.ru/spravochnik/svarka/kak-vybrat-payalnik.html