A soldering iron is used in welding to join metal or plastic. It melts a metal alloy called solder, which fuses with the material being joined. Flux prevents impurities and oxidation. The iron needs cleaning and a new layer of solder applied to prevent oxidation. Care is needed when using it due to the hot tip.
A soldering iron is a tool designed to be used in welding. Welding is classically used to join two pieces of metal together to create a joint, although plastic can also be welded. Soldering irons provide a controlled source of heat that can be used to manipulate the materials used in the welding process to achieve the desired goal of a smooth, clean joint. Soldering is easy enough to do that it’s regularly taught in high school electronics classes.
In welding, a highly ductile metal alloy known as solder is melted, fusing with the metal that will be joined. As the weld cools, a solid joint is created. In desoldering, the joint is heated to break the bonds and remove the solder, as can be done when something needs to be adjusted or reset. In both cases, a soldering iron is used to control the process.
Soldering irons classically take the form of a metal rod attached to an insulated handle. Using electricity or gas, the barrel is heated, with the heat concentrated in the tip. A small amount of solder is placed on the tip to heat it, and the iron is used to carefully apply the molten solder to the joint and to smooth out the joint. This process also requires flux, a material that prevents the solder from acquiring impurities. Of particular concern is oxidation, which can compromise the strength of the welded joint.
Through a session of use, the tip of the soldering iron will gradually become dirty with solder, flux and impurities. It needs to be cleaned, when it can be done by rubbing the tip on a special sponge. After cleaning, a new layer of solder is applied to prevent oxidation of the tip. Sometimes people can control the temperature of the soldering iron to achieve a desired temperature range, which allows for more control over the process.
Working with a soldering iron requires some care, because the tip gets hot and can become dangerous. Many people work with a stand or workstation that allows them to rest the soldering iron on a secure stand. Heat control is important, as is awareness of how long it takes for the device to heat up and cool down. Some heat up and cool down very quickly, while others may take a few minutes to heat up and cool down. It is important to avoid touching the tip while it is hot.
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