Coming in out of the cold: Solder and soldering tips

What is a “cold joint”? What is flux? What type of solder should I use?

The Perils of Cold Solder Joints ❄️

First things first, let’s talk about the arch-nemesis of soldering – cold solder joints. Picture this: you’re working on a project, and everything seems fine until suddenly, parts of the circuit go dark. Cold solder joints happen when the solder doesn’t fully melt and bond with the components. The result? A flimsy connection that can lead to erratic behavior or total failure. So, always double-check your joints and ensure they’re hot and solid. A cold joint occurs whenever the solder doesn’t completely melt and fails to “wet” the metals being joined.

Visually, a good solder joint will have a shiny finish to it, while a cold joint often displays a whitish, frosted look and may have a a rough or lumpy surface. If you’re unsure, follow this guide to good joints,

Too much heat is no better 🔥

At the opposite extreme you have burned joints, with scorched flux or even damaged tracks or PCB material. This might be recoverable with careful scraping or isopropyl alcohol cleaning.

Flux: The Unsung Hero 🌟

Enter flux, the unsung hero of soldering. This magical substance helps in cleaning and preparing the surface for soldering. It removes oxides and contaminants, ensuring a smooth, reliable connection. Don’t skimp on flux – it’s your best friend when it comes to achieving those picture-perfect joints.

Solid Core vs. Rosin Core Solder: The Showdown ⚔️

When it comes to choosing solder, you’ll encounter two main types: solid core and rosin core. Solid core provides stability and is excellent for through-hole components. On the flip side, rosin core comes with built-in flux, making it convenient for quick jobs and surface mount components. The choice? It depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Lead vs. Lead-Free Solder: The Great Debate 🤔

Now, let’s tackle the age-old debate: lead vs. lead-free solder. Lead solder has been the go-to for ages, offering ease of use and reliability. However, with environmental concerns in mind, lead-free solder has gained popularity. It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons – lead solder tends to have a lower melting point, making it easier for beginners, while lead-free is more eco-friendly, but has a higher failure rate.

Temperature Settings and Solder Types 🔥

Different solder types require different temperature settings. For lead solder, aim for around 370°C (700°F), while lead-free solder might need a hotter 450°C (850°F). Always check the specifications of your solder and components to avoid mishaps.

Through-Hole vs. Surface Mount: Soldering Showdown 👊

When it comes to soldering techniques, through-hole and surface mount components offer different challenges. Through-hole components are more forgiving and suitable for beginners. Surface mount, on the other hand, requires finesse and patience. For hand-soldering surface mount components, a steady hand, good lighting, and our binocular magnifier can be your best allies.