Make sure to rub in a circular motion until all residue has been removed from the surface, then rinse with warm water and dry completely before using again. Maintaining a consistent temperature while working will help to extend the lifespan of your soldering iron tips. However, the temperature of the tip can naturally decrease while in use. To prevent this from happening, many solderers will turn the temperature of their soldering tip up even higher than is required. This section will explain the tools of the trade. Some of these you will need, some of these you will not. The first (and most common) apparatus is the simple yellow sponge. Operator fatigue is less compared to the welding process. Soldering is divided into two classifications: soft and hard.

However, I will outline the advantages of each method so that you can reach your own conclusion. You’ll soon see why I recommend having both options available when possible. Soldering Sponge Pros and Cons: Pros:

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An alternative job involves knowing how to solder copper pipe correctly. Unlike most other types of joint soldering (particularly electrical/PCB work) the aim when soldering copper pipe is often to achieve a leak-free joint. The goal is to end up with reliable and consistent water flow through two or more lengths of tubing.

To use this paste, first make sure the soldering iron is unplugged and cooled down before beginning the cleaning process. Flux residues can cause dendritic growth and corrosion on PCB assemblies, so make sure you’re using best practices and clean the board. After all, the components have been replaced and excess solder removed: The second tool of the trade, is 600 grit sandpaper. NOTE: Paper ignites at 451 F, so make sure the iron is unplugged, and has had time to cool before using sandpaper. You will only use sandpaper if the tip has been abused by the previous technician, student, or co-worker. Do not use any soldering iron or other item of electrical equipment that shows visible damage to the tool body, cabling or plugEmploying this approach involves heating the iron to soldering temperature, followed by dipping it in a flux container. If you are using liquid flux, a drop or two on the hot tip works as well. Immediately rub the tip onto the moist sponge a few times. Depending on the level of tip oxidation, this should expose some amount of silver tip underneath the dark oxide cladding. If not, repeat the process until that happens.