How to Choose a Soldering Iron
Despite the fact that the modern market is represented by a wide range of various soldering irons, many do not know how to choose this tool in order to conveniently solve the tasks. Sellers in specialized stores can not always fully describe all the pros and cons of each model, so it is better to look for the answer on the Internet. Before you buy a soldering iron, you need to familiarize yourself with its characteristics and try to figure out which ones are the most important and which are the least. It is also worth paying attention to the country of origin. So how to choose a soldering iron so as not to be mistaken?
Important parameters
How to choose a soldering iron Each tool has its own parameters and characteristics that determine its functional purpose and applicability. A soldering iron is no exception. Choosing a specific model, it is necessary to focus on the following parameters:
Power and size
Many believe that the larger and more powerful this tool is, the better. However, it is not. If it is required directly for pipes, then the power and size parameters should be one, if for microcircuits - then different. There are models with a power of less than 10 watts and above 500 watts.
Important parameters
How to choose a soldering iron Each tool has its own parameters and characteristics that determine its functional purpose and applicability. A soldering iron is no exception. Choosing a specific model, it is necessary to focus on the following parameters:
Power and size
Many believe that the larger and more powerful this tool is, the better. However, it is not. If it is required directly for pipes, then the power and size parameters should be one, if for microcircuits - then different. There are models with a power of less than 10 watts and above 500 watts.
Working voltage
The most popular models have an operating voltage of 6, 12, 36 and 220 Volts. Of course, it is better to choose a soldering iron, powered by a power supply with a capacity of 220 V. With regard to security, an operating voltage of 36 V is the best option. If you want to buy a soldering iron for the house with the lowest voltage, then you will have to purchase a step-down transformer.
Type of heating element
Modern devices are mainly available with built-in spiral heaters, which are a ceramic or mica tube coated with a wire located on top. Some models have ceramic heaters, however, their service life is not too long, and the price is quite high.
Sting shape
There is a large selection of diverse stings. It is best to choose a soldering iron that has the ability to change the tip. In this case, you can buy a tool, regardless of whether it is intended for home or for processing microcircuits.
Tip length adjustment
You must select those devices that have a similar function. This is explained by the fact that after a while the solder begins to destroy the sting, causing notches, reducing it in size, etc.
Soldering Iron Type
If you can’t choose the right tool, it’s best to buy rod or pulse models.
The best is considered an electric soldering iron. It is universal and optimally combines all the necessary parameters.
Choosing a Soldering Iron for Home Use
Soldering iron for homework According to generally accepted rules, there are no special requirements and recommendations for soldering irons for the home. The main thing is that the tool has a wide scope of application, is reliable and safe. For the house, rod soldering irons are the best option. Their main advantages are reliability, durability and practicality.
The disadvantage of such a tool is the need to wait until it warms up before use. There is an alternative - a pulsed soldering iron, which heats up instantly, having an ergonomic design and, in addition, it is very convenient to use. However, such an apparatus is mainly used for soldering microcircuits, and its cost is much higher than that of ordinary core models.
