Temperature Selection
3
© 2006 OK International. Technical Note v2.2; 05/14/07
Use Specialty Tips
If you have a specific SMT application, like multi-lead soldering or pad cleaning, use the OKi or Metcal
tip that is designed to accommodate the application. In doing so, the tip will last much longer, and the
board will be put under much less stress.
Temperature Selection
For Metcal Systems, start with a 600 series tip. If your board is simple and does not have too many
backplanes, use a 500 Series tip cartridge. However, for lead-free soldering processes, a 600 Series tip
is still recommended. If you are soldering or desoldering a heavy board with copper backplanes, you
may want to use a higher temperature series. If you are removing a large component, you may need to
use a 700 or 800 Series tip cartridge to accommodate the large load. For MFR and PS-800E Systems,
start with an “F” series tip. See
Table 1
on page 4 for more information.
Choose the Lowest Temperature Possible
In general, OKi and Metcal systems with SmartHeat
®
technology use lower temperatures than
conventional irons. These systems are designed to use low temperatures, varying power delivery
depending on the size of the load. "Direct Power" allows soldering of heavy loads at low temperatures,
by maximizing power (heat) to the load.
Take Flux Type into Consideration
If you are using a No-Clean flux, use lower temperatures. High temperatures will "flash" No-Cleans right
off the board. Combining 700 Series and No-Clean flux will sharply reduce tip life. If you are using an
RMA flux, you can afford to use a higher temperature series tip cartridge. For lead-free soldering, an
RMA flux is recommended.
The Importance of Temperature
Remember, good contact, a wet connection, and the correct tip geometry are the keys to effective
soldering. You want to maximize the efficiency of power delivery to the load, at low temperatures. Using
low temperatures will lessen danger to the board, lowering your scrap rates. Raising the temperature
should only be done as a last resort.
Temperature control is especially important in lead-free soldering. The higher thermal demand of
lead-free increases the risk of board and component damage. OKi’s SmartHeat
®
technology allows for
lead-free soldering at the lowest possible temperatures.
How Do I Change the Tip Temperature?
To change the temperature, you need to change the tip cartridge or the tip and coil assembly
(depending on the OKi or Metcal product). Temperature is not controlled by the power supply.
