[Elecraft] tool to build info

[Tom Hammond]

As Don says 63/37 solder is the preferred composition as it has virtually 
no 'plastic' range (temp range during which is is neither molten or solid). 
However, I personally prefer using 0.020" (0.5mm) diameter solder. I like 
this diameter because it helps to protect me from myself when I try to 
apply too much solder to a joint. Many solder diameters, esp. those above 
about 0.040" (1mm) will melt too much solder onto the joins as soon as the 
solder touches the iron. Using the smaller diameter solders allows you to 
much more easily 'meter' out the amount of solder you wish to apply.

Kester 44 and 285 rosin-core solders are good choices, as are the Multicore 
brand.


73,

Tom Hammond     N0SS


At 03:40 PM 1/22/04, Don Brown wrote:
>Hi
>
>It seems like there were several temp controlled soldering stations 
>available in the UK mentioned a while back. Check the reflector archives. 
>Hakko soldering stations are excellent if they are available over there. 
>Check their web site. The solder you should use is 63/37 tin lead solder 
>with an activated rosin flux. Multicore or Kester 44 or the equivalent 
>should be available in the UK or Germany. You should get the 025 or .031 
>diameter with the smaller the preferred size. Hakko also makes a nice 
>flush cutter for trimming component leads.