The Best Soldering Iron

Buying Guide

A soldering iron is a tool commonly used to combine two pieces of metal by melting and fusing them with solder. Solder is an alloy material made up of a base metal and other elements. It’s commonly used in electrical and plumbing work.

While traditional solder is made from silver or lead, newer varieties are largely lead-free, made instead of a combination of tin, copper, silver and other metals. This makes it safe for human contact while providing a strong bond between the two materials being joined.

A soldering iron is made up of a heating element, an insulated handle and a tip that conducts heat to the two surfaces being joined. Soldering irons can be used for various purposes, such as repairing electrical connections, connecting electronic components on a circuit board and jewelry making.

Taking precautions when using a soldering iron is essential, as the tool produces very high temperatures. It is vital to wear protective gloves and use a heat-proof material, such as a metal plate or wooden board, between you and the soldering iron. Safety glasses should be worn to protect against sparks. Before you get started, verify that your work area is clear of any flammable materials.

When not in use, store your soldering iron safely by turning off the power switch and unplugging it from the wall outlet. The tip should be wiped down with a damp sponge or cloth and then left to cool off on a stand before being stored.

• Clean the surfaces of the materials you plan to join together before beginning. This removes any debris or oxidation that could interfere with the solder and helps create a stronger connection.
• Use proper tools and safety equipment, such as wearing safety goggles and gloves at all times, to protect yourself from injury or burns.
• Select the correct size and type of tip for your soldering iron; too small of a tip won’t transfer enough heat, while too large will cause too much heat and damage the material.
• Heat the conductor you are soldering correctly. They will need to be hot enough to melt the solder but not so hot that they become damaged by excessive heat.
• Make sure your solder is also heated up sufficiently, then let it flow onto the joint between the two pieces you want to join, forming an even “filet” on each side. Once both sides have cooled, examine them closely to ensure there is no gap between them, as this can weaken the connection over time.
• Once finished with your work, make sure all the tools involved in your project are cleaned and put away correctly for next time!