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Mastering the Art of Soldering
Sometimes, you have to make use of what is available to shrink the heat shrink tube. In
cases where you do not have the soldering gun, torch or lighter and you only have your
soldering iron, you can also shrink the tube by touching the heat shrink tube with the
soldering iron and sliding it back and forth until the tube shrink.
7. Soldering Tip Cleaning and Maintenance
Your soldering iron needs to be frequently cleaned in order to keep it in good condition. They
are exposed to rusts because they usually come into contact with hot metals. The following
are some tips on how to prevent metallic build-up and tip damage throughout the years.
7.1 Soldering Tip Cleaning
Tips usually turn black after using it, this means that the tip has undergone oxidation and has
oxides deposit on its surface. Cleaning the tips frequently by removing any dirt or dust can
guarantee your tips are free of any oxides. Just make sure to clean it right away to prevent
corrosion or rusting. Then always re-tin your tip directly after cleaning it to help prevent
oxidation.
Here are different ways to clean the soldering iron tip:
1.
First to remember before cleaning the soldering iron tip is to TURN OFF your soldering
iron and let it cool down for about 15-20 minutes. After that you can start cleaning the
soldering iron as well as the tip without risking burning your skin.
2.
One of the most common cleaning methods is a tip cleaning using a
sponge
. Use a
sulfur-free sponge that is made precisely for soldering. Make sure that the sponge is
clean from dust and contaminants to avoid damage to the tip. Wet the sponge and
carefully wipe the tip to remove excess solder, dirt or oxides.