Selecting a better soldering iron for soldering at home radio components. Main tool - soldering iron! Soldering iron description

One of the main tools of radio amateurs, homemade masters and electricians is a soldering iron. This product allows you to connect the segments of the LED ribbons, dropping radio components from the boards, repair the electrical appliances and make a bunch of useful actions. To date, there is a fairly large range of models, different in functionality, the principle of operation and configuration. In this article we will tell you the readers of the site, how to choose a soldering iron for wiring and chip.

Basic selection criteria

So, first briefly consider the most important parameters that you should pay attention to when buying a soldering iron.

Type of heater

First of all, the devices are divided into electrical and gas. First we will talk about those who work for gas.

Gas soldering iron is recommended to choose for. It is convenient because it works offline, without electricity, which is relevant with electrical work. In addition, such a device can be used as a hair dryer.

The disadvantages of gas devices include the complexity of working with chips, as well as the fact that when gas burning into the atmosphere, a substance harmful to the body is discharged, so it is very dangerous to work for a long time with such an adaptation.

Select an electric soldering iron is appropriate for soldering chips and the same wires, if there are no problems with power supply. Electrical models are divided into the following types:

1. Spiral. The cheapest, practical and durable type of heater. The disadvantage - long heats up, but it is not so important if you need to choose a soldering iron for a home.
2. Ceramic. More expensive and at the same time fragile (it can stop working even with a slight blow). The advantage - quickly heats up. If for you the main one to choose the device such to quickly and strongly heated, the model with a ceramic heater will be the most optimal solution.
3. Pulsed. Another version of execution that can quickly heat up. The pulse soldering iron is better to choose to solder the chip and to work with printed boards. Such a tool will cost more and is used to a greater extent for the listed works.

Separately, mention of this version of execution as a soldering station. With its help, you can quickly and better make the soldering of wires and chips. For radio amateurs will be the most optimal solution!

Power

As for the choice of power of the electric soldering iron, then the following recommendations should be taken into account:

• power up to 10 W can be used for soldering the simplest chips;
• from 20 to 40 W - this is the optimal power for use in domestic conditions;
• choose a 60-100 W model is suitable if you are going to solder wires;
• over 100 W home masters do not use, because Such devices have its own specific scope of application (soldering radiators, metal parts, and etc.).

Additional features

Also when choosing a soldering iron should pay attention to such moments as:

This is all the advice that we wanted to provide you. As you can see, there are many nuances for which you need to pay attention when choosing a soldering iron for the house.

Let's sum up

So, you studied the main criteria for which the selection of the tool for the soldering of the wires and the chip is carried out. Now briefly briefly summarize to secure the studied:

1. For printed circuit boards and chips, it is better to choose a pulse soldering iron or spiral, but no more than 30 W.
2. To connect the wires and other electrical installation works, a gas model is suitable or electrical, with a capacity of 60 to 100 W.
3. To solder metal parts, you need a powerful machine (from 100 W and more).

Practically in each house in the tool kit includes a soldering iron - a special device for soldering parts. The principle of operation of this device lies in the melting of tin (solder) and the subsequent applying of the solder on the edges of the fused parts. In addition, with the help of a soldering iron, you can cover the necessary object with a thin layer of molten tin - to lose it.

Soldiers differ in the heating technology in a few species, it is:

1. Electric machine. The most common and popular view. Its sting heats up with electricity.
2. Thermal-friendly. A thin jet of hot air heats the treated surface.
3. Arc. The surface is heated using an electrical arc between the sting and placed inside the device electrode.
4. Hammer and end. The tips of the soldering iron of this species are fixed on elongated handles, heating occurs under the influence of an external heat source.
5. Gas. In other words, gas burner.
6. Infrared Soldering Station. The soldering process is performed using infrared radiation.

The electricians also have their own varieties that differ in power and type of heater: nichrome and ceramic. Pulse also belong to the electricians, their tip is heated at that moment when it is necessary. Each type of appliances has its own features of the functionality, distinctive characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

Nichrome soldering iron

It is also called an electric soldering iron with a spiral heater, or ECPN. The heating element of this tool is a helix made of thin nichrome wire through which the electric current passes. In more modern models there is a nichrome element built into the insulators.

Advantages:

• average price, availability;
• blow resistance, soldering iron is not sensitive to mechanical damage.

Disadvantages:

• sensitivity to loads, with intense daily use its helix brave;
• the tip is heated long enough.

Ceramic soldering iron

The heater is made in the form of a ceramic rod heating with electricity. The soldiers of this type are more comfortable, but most often there are fakes - nichrome, in which only insulator is ceramic. However, real ceramic are manufactured by a limited number of manufacturers, and there are many cheap low-quality fakes.

Advantages:

• heating occurs quite quickly;
• temperature is supported using the control system;
• high power;
• small dimensions;

Disadvantages:

• difficulties with the definition of fake;
• fragility of the heating element;
• the impossibility of using replaceable stamps;
• high price device.

Hammer solder

Modern models are electrical or heated from external heat sources (from open fire). The name "hammer" occurred from the design - handles with a thick tip. The device allows you to solder large parts.

Advantages:

• low price;
• the ability to make such a soldering iron manually;
• good power (from 100 to 150 watts).

Disadvantages:

• little functionality;
• the inability to adjust the heating temperature.

Pulse soldering iron

Solders of this species do not have constant heating, and the tip warming occurs when the button is pressed. For convenience, such a device has a curved shape. Long-term soldering in this case is not provided, but a pulsed soldering iron is conveniently operated with short-term work.

The tip is made of copper wire, it is warmed by electric current. Modern firms produce impulse tools with removable tips and ceramics heater.

New Type devices have additional features, such as power adjustment and temperature, which makes it possible to solder both small parts and large ones.

Advantages:

• rapid tip heating;
• soldering details of different sizes;
• the high efficiency of the useful act (heating talked directly during the soldering).

Disadvantages:

• can be used exclusively for short work.

Wireless solders

The power of the device of this type is relatively small, the soldering iron works not from the network, but on batteries and is used in cases of absence of electricity or the need for work in special conditions.

Advantages:

• rapid heating;
• mobility and lack of need for power supply;
• small size.

Disadvantages:

• low power.

Portable USB soldering iron

These are small soldering tips with USB power. Such an appliance can work from the car cigarette lighter and is designed to solder small details.

Advantages:

• mobility;
• small size;
• quickly heats up.

Disadvantages:

• little power.

Soldering iron with tin suction

This is a rather original and convenient device that is easy to handle. It is best to choose a soldering iron with an insulated handle, it will provide safety when working and serves longer. Popular soldering iron with built-in solder suction are distinguished by a rapid way out.

Soldering iron for children

This is a device with a small power - from 30 to 60 watts. There are electrical, impulse and batteries. It is recommended to acquire a tool with a wooden handle.

Types of tips

Soldering sting have several varieties and are made of ceramics, copper, and can also have silver, aluminum, nickel coating.

Copper Stow

Such stages are installed in the electric shocks.

Advantages:

• good thermal conductivity;
• heat capacity.

Disadvantages:

• the oxidation of the rod and as a result of the reduction of its functionality;
• such a sting has to be cleaned, it is thinned and soon needs to be replaced.

Nickel coated sting

Such a sting is also included in the design of the electrobyavnikov, and instruments with a ceramic heater.

Advantages:

• does not burn in the process of work;
• there is no need to regularly clean it.

Disadvantages:

• high price;
• fragility material.

Ceramic sting

Its case is made of ceramics, and the tip is usually copper covered with nickel.

Advantages:

• thermal conductivity;
• resistance to corrosion;
• no need for constant cleaning.

Disadvantages:

• high price;
• the fragility of the ceramic case.

Form Zhala

The shape of the tip depends on the type of work performed. At the same time, some structures of the soldiers do not imply the use of replaceable tips, and in this case the replacement of the sting becomes difficult and takes a lot of time. In addition, there are soldering tanks with adjustable sting.

The sting is in the form of a wedge (screwdriver), a rod with a beveled edge, cone-shaped, in the form of a needle. The most comfortable, universal form is a screwdriver form, as it is suitable for performing different works. This form allows you to quickly heat the desired detail, and solder on such a waters is better than on the stals of other forms.

Sachet handle material

The handle of the soldering iron should be made of low thermal conductivity materials. It can be a wooden handle, an ebonite, as well as a handle from carbolitis and textolite. Plastic handles are found from the cheapest models, they quickly heat and can melt. The best choice will be a tree handle, as it has the lowest thermal conductivity.

How to choose a soldering iron

Choosing a soldering iron, you should navigate the main criteria, such as its power, thermostabilities and of course at the price of the device.

Power

This indicator depends on the type of work. Power up to 25 watts is suitable for soldering small electronic parts, 40 watt power - to work with thick wires. Higher power, from 100 watts and above, is suitable for soldering large parts. The advantages of soldering iron with high power is their reliability and a wide range of functions, but their disadvantage is that such devices are not used in everyday life.

The power of the home soldering should be from 25 to 40 watts. A smaller capacity indicator will lead to the fact that the soldering will take a lot of time, and the quality of the result will be dubious. Excessive power will make it impossible to solder parts that can simply burn.

Thermostabilization

Soldiers with thermal stabilization significantly accelerate the process of soldering, improve its quality, and it becomes much more convenient to work, as they provide the ability not only to accurately set the desired temperature, but also support it. It is convenient for both newcomers and professionals. The temperature controller is in a separate case and built into the design of the soldering iron.

Advantages:

• automatic maintenance of the desired temperature;
• the danger of overheating is excluded;
• one soldering iron can be done, requiring varying degrees of heating;
• there is no need to clean the steering of the soldering iron from the scale.

Disadvantages:

• the original sting is not universal;
• often meet fakes;
• heats up long.

Cost of soldering

Prices directly depend on the characteristics and functional, such as a heater, the presence or absence of a temperature controller and from a brand that produces the device. You can buy an inexpensive soldering iron that has good characteristics and suitable for homework, you can choose a more expensive model with additional features.

Inexpensive and budgetary soldering companies include valves cost from 80 to 600 rubles. Most often it is electric soldering iron with sting from copper, 40 watt power. This also includes ceramic soldering iron with the heater of their nichrome, nickel sting and power from 30 to 40 watts - their value ranges from 300 to 600 rubles.

Middle price solders - pulse, 70 watt (from 300 to 700 rubles), wireless and USB soldering iron, with a small capacity of up to 10 watts (from 300 to 1300 rubles).

Soldering iron with a durable stale and a film-ceramic heater, with a capacity of 50 watts, has cost from 2500 to 5200 rubles.

Dozen best

KVT XZ-1 - 10th place

Contactless multifunctional gas soldering iron. Well suitable for soldering in hard-to-reach places. It has three modes of operation - like a soldering iron, as a hair dryer and as a gas burner. Its maximum temperature is 1300 degrees, and the temperature is 580 degrees, the system of smooth adjustment of the operating temperature is built into the design, and the Keys and 4 nozzles are included in the kit. Its cost - from 1900 to 2912 rubles.

KVT XZ-1 soldering iron

Dremel VersaFlame - 9th place

Gas soldering iron. It is a universal soldering station suitable for home soldering. It is heated quickly, and the time of its continuous operation is 75 minutes. Its maximum heating temperature is 1200 degrees, the device comes in a set with 4 replaceable nozzles, and its cost from 2680 to 4609 rubles.

Soldering iron Dremel VersaFlame

Sigma 200W - 8th place

Pulse soldering iron, made in the form of a gun with a shockproof case. It has a built-in transformer, and the sting of this soldering iron is made of high quality steel. The kit includes 3 replaceable nozzles. The maximum heating temperature is 400 degrees. Its cost is about 800 rubles.

Video Review of the soldering iron:

Solder Sigma 200W.

Lukey 852D Plus - 7th place

The thermo-air soldering station with a capacity of 350 watts and the maximum temperature of 480 degrees. It has an impressive weight, but it is simple and easy to use. The kit includes a stand and a holder for a hair dryer, which is equipped with an automatic shutdown function. Suitable for soldering by microcircuit, as well as for repairing household appliances and electrical engineering. The device is equipped with a thermostat, and its cost ranges from 5250 to 6590 rubles.

Soldering iron lukey 852d plus

REXANT ZD-708 - 6th place

This is an electric soldering iron with a ceramic heater equipped with a power regulator in the range from 30 to 50 watts. The heating of the conical sting occurs quickly, and the device itself is distinguished by reliability. Its heat-resistant handle is made of transparent plastic. The maximum heating temperature is 200-450 degrees. Its cost from 590 to 1099 rubles.

More about the soldering iron - in video:

Rexant ZD-708 soldering iron

Lukey 852D Plus Fan - 5th place

Thermal-wide soldering station, with a powerful air flow, adjustable with a power of 350 watts and a temperature of 480 degrees. The temperature is also adjustable, and the price of the device is from 449 to 5890 rubles.

Soldering iron Lukey 852D Plus Fan

CT-96 (CT-Tools) - 4th place

Ceramic soldering iron with temperature controller - a special sensor sets the operating temperature (from 100 to 400 degrees), the heating occurs within two minutes and the level of heating is stable during the soldering. Its power is 50 watts, and cost about 530 rubles.

CT-96 soldering iron (CT-Tools)

Proxxon EL 12 (28140) - 3 place

Electric soldering iron with a temperature controller, providing a constant stabilized heating of sting. Heats quickly, for 10 seconds. The body of the soldering iron is protected from heating, in addition, the device is equipped with a backlight, has a small weight, its operating temperature is 250 degrees. The cost of such a soldering iron from 1300 to 1550 rubles.

Soldering iron proxxon el 12 (28140)

Rexant HT-019 (ZD-210) - 2nd place

Electric soldering iron with vacuum suction of molten tin, well suited for homework. Much more convenient soldering with ordinary solder suction. The instrument handle is made of shockproof plastic. Power of the soldering iron 40 watts, working temperature 450 degrees, and cost from 280 to 520 rubles.

Solder Rexant HT-019 (ZD-210)

Dremel Versatip - 1st place

Contact gas soldering iron Dremel Versatip. Comfortable, light, it is universal and can perform the functions of the soldering iron, a gas burner, a hot knife and a hairdryer. The operating time at minimum power is 90 minutes, and at the maximum - 30 minutes. The heating occurs quickly, its maximum temperature is smoothly adjustable, and is at its maximum of 1200 degrees. The kit includes 6 nozzles, and the price of the device from 2545 to 3199 rubles.

Soldering iron Dremel Versatip.

Choosing a soldering iron, it is necessary to rely on the planned scope of work, the frequency of its use and the technical characteristics of a particular instrument.

If the reader is the question of the acquisition of the soldering iron, then telling about its purpose, the device, the principle of operation is a waste of time. Given that the product range is significant, and the classification of products in various parameters is rather complicated, it is the process of choosing a soldering iron for homework is for many real problems.

Here on this and focus the attention of the reader. The following information will help you buy a really the model of the soldering iron, the further use of which on the household will not cause special problems.

The author for the first time "met" with a soldering iron over four decades ago. Since then, by the nature of the activity, and in everyday life it does not part. Consequently, it can not only have his own opinion, but also to express it. With certain provisions, the reader probably will not agree, and this is quite explained. Nevertheless, all recommendations are not just a "literary processing" of other people's thoughts. They are based on the personal experience of the author and tested by practice.

Variants of special stations, products for splicing pipes from plastic, rechargeable, gas are not considered. These are individual and volumetric topics, besides, such solders have a somewhat limited scope of use. That is, the term "for home" can be applied to them with great reservations.

Heating element

It is spiral and ceramic. The last type is positioned as one of the innovations in the field of electrical diagram, and is actively advertised by manufacturers. What is the difference, and which option is preferable to choose?

Ceramics - with a higher value of these soldering stories, durability is not guaranteed. The main reason is the fragility of the element. Such models are better suited for use in profile workshops, laboratories, the word where the entire work area fits on a specialized table. These soldering iron are sensitive to shocks, so it is unlikely to purchase them for the house.

Spiral - long time-tested execution of the heating element. The author only sees the advantages - the ability to repair it with replacement, changing the power of the soldering iron (if necessary) with a decrease in (increasing) of the length of the spiral. For someone who knows the elementary laws of physics and can independently make calculations - not a problem. Yes, and such models are cheaper than ceramic analogues.

The sting

This structural element may be different in shape and shade. What to choose?

The best option is a straight sting. This form is considered universal in use and is suitable for carrying out almost any technological operation.

The color of the sting can be silver or reddish. The sting based on copper is easier to handle. It is easier to remove the layers from it (Nagar), to sharpen as needed for a specific work, bend, if it is necessary.

The ability to adjust the length of the protrusion from the housing. Very useful "option", which allows you to extend the operational period of sting without replacing it to a new one.

Sachet handle

There are 3 manufacturing options. It is implied not the form, but the material.

Plastics. A small weight is in a plus, quick warm-up - in minus, and very significant. For a long time to keep such a soldering iron in your hands when it is included in the network, it will not work.

Ebonite. The only drawback of such pens is heavy. If the soldering iron is taken, for example, the so-called "dart" is 200 W, it is not fundamentally. But for a miniature tool, which is used for radiomontage, is definitely not suitable.

Wood. For the house - the optimal option. These handles do not overheat, and their weight is insignificant. Perhaps someone will notice such a deficiency as an unprepacent appearance. But how important is it for the soldering iron?

Network cord

The first - its length should be sufficient not to create inconvenience when using the tool.

The second is the flexibility of the cord. During the work, the soldier is given different positions. This is necessary and check - how will the "react" cord will not be an interference.

Third - isolation. Double protection, from the point of view of TB, much better.

Fourth - fork. Now they are mainly plastic, which makes it impossible to repair. After all, one of the main "diseases" of the solderingry is a break (fracture) lived wires in the plug area, since the tool constantly changes its spatial position. But if it is collapsible, then it is easy to restore the performance of the product.

According to technical specifications and applications

What applies to them? Power, the value of the supply voltage and the type of the soldering iron. By defining the parameters for each item, it is necessary to take into account, for which purpose it is purchased. Here with these positions and consider all the characteristics.

To work with circuit boards

What is the feature of such installation? It is quite dense, and the usual staining work is difficult. Plus to this - "tenderness" tracks on boards. The slightest overheating leads to their detachment. Consequently, choosing a soldering iron for radiomontage, it is advisable to dwell on the pulse model. If you acquire a rod, then only complete with a power supply. At its outputs (and their at least two) stress reduced. Depending on the manufacturer - from 6 to 24 V.

Such a soldering iron can not be for the home main, since its application is specific, only for printed circuit boards.

You can choose a rod soldier for 220 V, but with a lower power - by 25W. They will work out not all "home" work, but for most of them it will suit. However, only a professional can lead to such a soldering iron, specifically draining the sting, and then, as a last resort, for the absence of a different tool.

To work with printed boards, the use of a rod soldering iron without grounding is not recommended. Significant flooring can cause condense breakdown, the failure of the chip, which is often happening in practice. Even if it is with a power supply, the latter must be grounded.

For widespread

Here for the home, voltage, there is no special choice - only from the outlet, on 220. But for the power of opinions are different - from 25 to 80. The author recommends using a soldering iron on 65 W. It is universal for domestic use.

For garage

As a rule, in the home "mini-workshop" the car owner is engaged in (cables) and similar works that need to warm up the metal to high temperature. Here is a regular rod sample, even 80 - 100 W, is unlikely to help. It is better to choose a soldering iron 200 W. It has already been mentioned. In addition to the name "dart", such a model for the house is often referred to as the "electromotive" (in its form). For the "coarse" soldering - an indispensable thing.

Experience shows that there should be at least 2 soldiers in the house. The main one - by 65 (40) / 220, and additional (s) - depending on the hobbies (hobbies and so on) the host.

The sting of the soldering iron should be removable. This is how to pay attention to this. The fact is that during operation (especially intensive) its length is gradually decreasing. Soldiers with unemployed sting (and there are also such) in fact - a "disposable" tool.

But this is only one reason for such close attention to this feature of constructive performance. The second is that it is necessary to carry out various types of work related to soldering, and the corresponding tool of the house is usually one. Therefore, the possibility of changing the stall will make it easier for some problems.

Equipment. It's about the same stare - there must be another one. The author advises to do as follows - that which was originally established in the soldering iron, do not need to touch. But it is advisable to work with the reserve.

What to do:

Somewhere on ⅓ lengths bend the sting, at an angle of about 55 - 65º. It is easy to determine visually, if you understand what is done for what. The first sting will be useful if you need to lose something, to solder 2 wires and so on. But the second, curved, it is more convenient to perform a "point" soldering. For example, fix thin wiring on the contact plate. Who independently repaired Christmas Garlands, knows how troublesome is.

The curved part must be sharpened to the cone, along the entire length. As a result, we get a subtle tip of the taper, which is easy to make the repair of printed circuit boards.

It is desirable to acquire a soldering iron not separately, but in a set with a stand. It contains a microswitch, which makes recoming the scheme. In the operating position of the tool, 220 V is received on the heating element, and when it is installed on the stand, the power is supplied through a diode. It protects the soldering iron from overheating and extends its service life.

In principle, the information is exhaustive, and it is quite enough to make the optimal selection of the soldering iron based on the tasks to be solved at home.

Soldering iron - The main tool for soldering. It may vary by design and power.

Depending on the type of heater, 2 main groups can be distinguished:

1. Ceramic soldering tips - faster heated, but at the same time have a smaller service life. This feature is related to the fact that the ceramic rod is quite fragile and can break under certain conditions. Therefore, with such execution options should work carefully.
2. Spirallong warm up, but at the same time practical and durable. They got widespread. In this case, a ceramic rod is also used as a core, however, it is protected by special coils from durable wire.

In terms of power, you can hold the following classification:

1. Power from 3 to 10 W Most suitable when working with very small chips. In the case of chips, the situation of combustion of tracks is often found due to high temperatures. The limitation of 10 W makes a soldering iron more convenient to use, also reduction of power allows you to make the design easier and comfortable.
2. Power from 20 to 40 W It is often found in the soldering iron, which belong to the category of amateurs or household. They are very often found. Many inexpensive models have exactly similar power. For most power tasks, 40 W will be enough. At the same time, the design will be small.
3. Capacity from 60 to 100 W Enough for splitting thick wires. That is why, such versions are found in car services that carry out the repair of electrician electricians. Such structures are quite bulky.
4. Power from 100 to 250 W Allows the sealing of a saucepan, radiators and other metal things with a sufficiently large cross-sectional thickness. Work when using such a powerful soldering iron should be with extreme caution. In some cases, along with the tool, an instruction is underway in which the safety technique is clearly indicated, which is a prerequisite.

When choosing, it is worth remembering that the more power, the more cumbersome design.

In addition, it is also possible to note the presence in the market of special soldering stations, which are several times superior to ordinary soldering iron. The speed of the soldering when using this equipment is several times more, as well as the quality of the compound obtained. But. For the proper use of the station, you need to have certain skills, the cost of their very large.

Selection criteria - what to pay attention to?

Conduct the choice of the tool in question, taking into account its basic qualities.

1. Power and size design. As previously noted, power is one of the determining factors of that if you can use a soldering iron in certain conditions. If the power is large or small, the work will not work. There are embodiments that allow you to adjust the power in the extensive range.
2. Supply voltage Also determines the possibility of using the soldering iron in certain conditions. Models that work from the standard network 220 V. in terms of security are most popular, many choose a design that works at a voltage of 36 V.
3. Type of heating element You can also call the defining factor. The widespread was obtained by EPSN, which are represented by a ceramic tube covered on top of the wire.
4. Resistance and shape. The sting is made in the form of a cone, needles or blades. There are options for execution that allow you to replace the nozzle, which significantly increases the comfort of work.
5. The presence in the design of thermal insulation handles - Important requirement. During work for a long time, heat from the heating element can switch to the handles if they are not isolated.
6. Having the ability to regulate the length of the sting. This feature is necessary due to the "eating" sting with time. At the end, defects may be formed, which will complicate work significantly. As a rule, they are spilled and then adjust the length of the tip.

The above features should be considered when choosing a soldering iron.

Selection of components: handle, nozzle, stand

When choosing a component, pay attention to the following:

Stand

During operation, the tip is heated to 250 degrees Celsius and above. In order to eliminate the likelihood of a dangerous situation, special supports are used. When choosing, you should pay attention to those versions that have good fixation of the soldering iron, as well as an isolated part of the contact of the design with a heating tool element.

Nozzle

May be different forms. There are special sets that have several options for performing nozzles.

Lever

Must be isolated from the heating element.

In some cases, the soldering iron manufacturer also creates special sets of component.

Main settings

The main parameters can be attributed to:

1. Power Defines the ability to solder metal of a certain thickness. What it is higher, the more voluminous work can be performed.
2. Type of rod Determines the heating rate of the soldering iron.
3. Availability of a special regulator To install the required temperature and power, makes the tool more functional.
4. Form Zhala - a constructive feature that determines the possibility of working under certain conditions. There are models that have a changeable sting.
5. VoltageFrom which the device can be powered. The most popular versions that work from a network with a voltage of 220 V.

Similar parameters are basic. Other nuances, for example, from what material the handle is made and what length it is, it is impossible to call the defining factors of the tool.

CHOICE OF THE MANUFACTURER AND REVIEW OF MODELS

When choosing solders, often pay attention to what company produces one model:

1. The greatest popularity It enjoys products of Czech manufacturers, as it has a good indicator of price and quality ratio.
2. Also, good devices produce Turkish manufacturers.
3. With chinese models everything is difficultSince in this case it is difficult to distinguish a low-quality product from a good.
4. Russian solderingels You can also often find on sale. Their low cost attracts quite a lot of attention. As for quality, many models are suitable for domestic use.

There is a huge number of soldering models.

Among all, we note the following:

1. Fit 60502. - One of the cheapest options, cost about 250 rubles. Power 25 watts. The model is suitable for performing various household tasks. Does not have a regulator.
2. Svetzar SV-55316-40-H4 - A model that comes in the form of a set. It has a power of 40 W. It can be used to perform household tasks, has a massive handle. The cost is about 800 rubles.
3. DOLD PP-120 - Set supplied in a special box. Power 100 W, temperature of the working surface of 250 degrees Celsius. The cost of 1500 rubles.
4. Svetosar SV-55335 - Soldering station, Power 48 W, Temperature when working 450 degrees Celsius. It has a complex design with the possibility of adjusting the parameters of the work. Cost more than 5,000 rubles. Included there is a special stand.

When choosing a model or another, you should consider how often and what work will be carried out.

Advice:

1. When choosing the most suitable modelBased on the above recommendations, it should be remembered that a good soldering iron will not cost cheaply.
2. AlsoIt is worth remembering that you need to choose the right seller. The products under consideration must have a guarantee.
3. Before choosing You need to evaluate how the soldering iron will often be used, and what work will be carried out. Often there is no point in acquiring an expensive model.

Question answer

1. What power is suitable for radio metal soldering? Most often choose 30-50 W models.
2. What is the service life? In this case, relying on the reviews can be said - from 1 day to several decades.
3. What sting is better: cone odor or flat? There is no unambiguous answer to this question, as it all depends on the type of work and other features.
4. What pricing range is better to choose for a beginner? 800-1000 rubles - in this category it is worth choosing a soldering iron.

Soldering devices of different types are widely used on industrial facilities, in workshops to repair radiotechnical equipment and household appliances, in domestic conditions. Depending on the operating conditions and destination, there are many varieties of soldering equipment.

Spiral heated electric

Application and species

1. The electrical soldering iron of the alternating current with a spiral heating of the core operates from the standard power supply network for household equipment at 220V 50-60Hz.
2. Rechargeable electric soldering iron is used to split wires and other small-sized elements where high power is required to 15 W;
3. There are varieties of gas solders, which are used for strong warming of metal elements and refractory alloys;
4. To work with the low-melting tin when installing and repairing radiotechnical equipment, the soldering iron of a pistol form with a pulsed voltage supply is widely used. When you press the trigger, the tip of the soldering iron is heated, after the end of the soldering, the triggers are released and the heating element cools;
5. Soldiers with ceramic rods have a long time of work, allow you to select the desired temperature mode and power consumed;

Soldering iron with ceramic nozzles on the rod

1. Widespread use of induction soldering iron. On the ferromagnetic tip, the inductive coil creates a magnetic field that warms the core. With the loss of magnetic properties of the core, heating is stopped, this is a significant drawback of such models.

Electric soldering iron is used as a hand tool. With it, it is melted by solder to a liquid state, which fills the slots and irregularities of the heated metal elements in the connection places, for which alloys of low-melting metals are used:

• tin;
• lead;
• zinc;
• nickel;
• copper and others.

The melting point of the solders should be less than the melting point of the connected metal elements.

Industry produces different types of soldering iron. The most frequently used in the industry and on the household level, spiral soldering planes are considered to be described in more detail.

Soldering device and work principle

One of the main elements of the soldering iron is the heating rod, which is wound with a spiral nichrome wire. In order for the heat to last longer, the rod is inserted into a steel cylinder, which is insulated with a heat-resistant fiberglass, a mica or asbestos layer. The winding of the nichrome wire is wound on this dielectric layer. These measures exclude a short circuit between the turns.

Depending on the power of the soldering iron, the winding can be multi-layered: fiberglass - winding - fiberglass - continuation of the spiral.

The greater the power of the soldering iron, the more turns of the spiral, thinner the diameter of the wire. For high thermal conductivity, the rod is used red copper, thus achieved a quick heating, and heat transfer to the sore soldering iron.

Scheme of the device of a spiral soldering iron

List of basic elements:

• plug and cord for connecting to the power supply;
• holder;
• wooden handle, can be made of heat-resistant plastic;
• copper rod;
• dielectric pads;
• heating spiral;
• the protective cover of the spiral with fixing rings.

The electrical Soldering Scheme is simple, consists of three elements:

• power supply;
• fork with wire;
• wire heating spiral.

Electrical soldering iron scheme

The electric current passing on the spiral of the nichrome wire warms up the winding, heat is transferred to the core and the steering of the soldering iron.

Faults and their elimination

In the solders of this model, the most common malfunction is an electrical circuit break. If the opening on the plot of the electric cord, the soldering iron repair is simple - it is replacing the cord or fork. In case of cliff nichrome winding, the repair is more complex, but it is possible.

Nichrome winding electric soldering iron

To determine the cliff and repair the winding, it is easiest to use a multimeter, given the resistance of the winding, which depends on the power and is indicated on the body of the soldering iron or in the product passport.

It is necessary to push the locking rings and remove the protective housing of the soldering iron. The casing for protection is two options. The metal tube that dresses on the pin with the winding and rests on the handle, from the side of the sting is fastened with a clamping ring. The second option when the protective housing consists of two longitudinal halves of the tube with a decreasing diameter at the edges, where the two components are fixed by clamping rings.

When repairing it with your own hands, some amateur masters, removing the protective cover and the top layer of the insulation of the winding, finding a break, do not bother themselves with a time-consuming replacement of the wire of the entire winding. Disconnect the end of the power cord terminals, and wipe the wire from the outside winding to the cliff. Then they make a neat twist at the place of burnout, the wire winds up, connect back to the power cord terminal, the outer layer of isolation is fixed. Dress up a protective case, a soldering iron includes a network and it works fine.

This method of repair is possible, but not recommended. The disadvantage of this method is that in the place of twist, the heating of the nichrome wire will be greater than on the rest of the chain. Ultimately, the exploitation of such a soldering iron will be short-term. Winding overrigent in the same place. For reliable work, you will have to rewind the entire coil.

If it is necessary to achieve the same heating power, it is necessary to wind the new coil with the same wire, with the same number of turns in each layer.

For insulation layers of winding, various materials are used:

• asbestos gaskets;
• heat-resistant fiberglass;
• slying tubes or plates.

The most practical asbestos are considered, the plate can be twisted with water, after which it becomes elastic and accepts any forms that are chatted with their own hands. The first layer of the spiral is wound on the dried coating, then the second layer of asbestos and the continuation of the winding, so until the end of the wire.

The number of turns in each layer and the thickness of the insulation should be approximately the same. This condition ensures the uniformity of heating. The remaining ends of the winding are connected to the network cord.

Connection winding with network cord

To fix the insulating layer of the winding, apply mica tubes and plates that have high thermal conductivity and are a reliable dielectric. The lack of this material in its fragility is difficult to lay, sometimes the mica is scattered right in the hands.

With mechanical shocks on a protective housing of the winding, mica plate can be collapsed, which will lead to an intersless closure into a spiral.

The sting of the soldering iron is sharpened under the cone for a comfortable spike of small elements. During operation, it requires a periodic edit to a file.

Electric soldering iron shape

Waving a new coil at the calculated power, there is no absolute confidence that the rod will warm up the elements that need to be soldered and solder to a liquid state. It depends on the sting, new more, as it is exploited. Solders also have a different melting point.

All these factors affect the time and temperature of heating to achieve the desired parameters of the power consumption and temperature. The soldering iron includes through a thyristor power regulator. This device allows you to automatically maintain the desired rod temperature.

Calculation of the necessary parameters

In order to fix the soldering iron, you can change its parameters, given the target purpose, i.e. For what you use a soldering iron (soldering pots or chips). At the same time, special tables are used, where the following values \u200b\u200bare specified to select:

• consumed electrical power of the soldering iron;
• supply voltage;
• the resistance of the nichrome wire.

The required resistance of the spiral for different power and voltage values \u200b\u200bare designed in advance and are reduced to the table.

Selecting the resistance of the helix (nichrome wire) by power and voltage voltage OM

To rewind the soldering iron with a capacity of 36 W at a voltage of 220V from the table, it can be seen that the winding resistance should be 1344 ohms. Next, you can take an existing wire, attach an ohmmeter terminal by the end, to move the second terminal to move along the empty wire before the 1334 form shows. At this mark, cut off the measured portion and wind it on the coil of the soldering iron.

Resistance to the meter wire of nichrome to the magnitude of its diameter

You can take advantage of the above table. Measure the micrometer with the diameter of the wire and on the table determine the required wire length in the coil. So, if the wire diameter is 0.08mm, the resistance to one meter will be 208 ohm. The required resistance of 1334 form / 208 Ohm \u003d 6.4 m. It turns out the length of the wire that should be climbed onto the coil.

The coils on the winding are stacked closely, heating the hot, the scale of the nichrome coating forms an insulating intersperous layer. When the coil lengths are not enough, the insulating layer is superimposed, fiberglass, asbestos or mica, and the second layer is wound. Almost every coil consists of several layers , it is very important that it is placed in a protective casing.

Video about repair

How repairing the soldering iron and its rewind of 12 volts, is described in the video below.

From the above information it follows that having certain skills, tools, materials and knowledge in electrical engineering, make the repair of the soldering iron with their own hands does not make up a big problem.