Learn to use a soldering gun to join metal components with a fusible tin-lead alloy. Clean components and the gun to avoid weak connections. Consider using a cold heat soldering tool for safety and efficiency.
If you’re interested in making handmade jewelry or building computers and other electrical components, learning how to use a soldering gun is a worthwhile endeavor. A soldering gun is a tool that can be used to join various metal components with a fusible tin-lead alloy. The user must manually adjust the temperature in a solder gun by holding down the tool’s trigger until the solder melts, then releasing it until the solder begins to solidify.
To weld, place the tip of the solder gun directly against the area to be welded and carefully apply the hot solder to the area where the solder gun touches the metal. Apply only the minimum amount of solder needed to set the connection; the excess solder will run into the other components of the project. Never blow on hot solder or try to use the connection before it has completely cooled. This will create small cracks in the metal joint and weaken the bond between the pieces.
If a solder connection has been made correctly, the solder will be bright and smooth. Poor solder connections often have sharp points or ridges and have a rough, flaky, or grainy appearance. If a connection is made incorrectly, you’ll need to use desoldering braid or a solder cup to remove the solder and reconnect the components.
One of the most common mistakes beginners make when soldering is failing to keep the solder gun and the components being joined free of dirt or debris. Attempting to solder components that have not been cleaned properly will result in weak connections. If the tip if the gun is not cleaned properly, oxidation and deterioration can occur. Periodically wiping the solder gun with a lightly moistened cloth during a long session is the best way to ensure clean connections. However, you can also purchase special sponges and cleaning pads to take care of your welding gun.
Because traditional soldering guns can be dangerous if not used properly, many hobbyists are turning to the cold heat soldering tool for their soldering needs. This battery-operated and cordless welder reaches a temperature of 500 degrees, but feels great to the touch within seconds of use. Because the heat is created within the proprietary special beveled tip, the cold heat soldering tool is said to be 20 times more efficient than a standard soldering gun. Optional chisels and conical tips are available for use with this type of welder.
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