[Elecraft] Soldering temperature

[G. Beat]

David - 



An additional point to Don's answer, 



You should ALWAYS match the MASS (1/32" - 1/4" typical in increments of 1/64") and 

PROFILE (screwdriver, single flat, conical, flat conical, etc.) of the Soldering Handpiece Tip to the work being performed. 

This is true for irons, desoldering/suction handpieces, as well as tweezers. 



TEMPERATURE is the third variable in the Soldering Triad. 



The most common mistake I have seen, is that novice and beginners will "turn up the heat" 

on the adjustable temperature soldering stations.   That is often the worst step they could take -- damaging the underlying board. 

and component.    



Greg 

w9gb 



=== 
> David, 
> 
> Assuming a 2 lead component -- 
> I would use 750 to 800 deg F to remove the component - heat each end 
> alternately until it moves and then "flick" it away from its solder pads. 
> 
> When installing the new component, 650 to 700 deg F should be adequate, 
> but that depends on the solder - if you are using lead-free solder, you 
> will have to increase those temperatures.  The soldering of any one 
> connection should be complete in 2 to 3 seconds, if it takes longer than 
> that, the soldering temperature is too low, but if it takes less than 2 
> seconds for the solder to flow, the iron is too hot. 
> 
> 73, 
> Don W3FPR 
> 
>> On 12/28/2010 9:13 PM, David Christ wrote: 
>> I have to replace a surface mount RFC on my K3.  Any suggestions on 
>> what tip temperature to use?  The same for removal and replacement? 
>>