solder iron you use for sensitive electronics

[martin]

What type of iron is best for soldering plugs & connectors on esc etc so you reduce risk of damage to components through static etc that you can get. Or do you use just a plain old soldering iron with no problems or need to use one of the solder stations that are grounded. Do you need to use anti static mats & or wrist straps to reduce risks further Your thoughts on this subject appreciated. Thanks.

[Basstronics]

I use the linked and I have a few tips.

http://www.amazon.com/Weller-WLC100-...8673909&sr=8-1

[dasboata]

Tough question to answer, I have a 35 watt pencil type that is good for most light stuff, But you have to know how to solder !!!

[Rumdog]

60 watt cheap Hobbico for everything.

[6sHyper]

i just bought a new pencil style a few weeks ago and it works great, its a Weller SP23L, like 35 bucks.

most importantly make sure you get solder that has lead in it still!! the non leaded is pure crap.

[m4a1usr]

What type of iron is best for soldering plugs & connectors on esc etc so you reduce risk of damage to components through static etc that you can get. Or do you use just a plain old soldering iron with no problems or need to use one of the solder stations that are grounded. Do you need to use anti static mats & or wrist straps to reduce risks further Your thoughts on this subject appreciated. Thanks.

Since your question is directed towards Electrostatic Discharge Protection the size of a soldering iron has very little merit. Greater wattage is more likely to damage components due to excessive heat being applied. To minimize this you must take a course or become certified as this will enable you to become familiar with appropriate soldering techniques and methods per industry standards. There are some basic lessons to learn that can aid one in being proficient.


Ideally an ESD mat (for your work) along with an ESD strap (to protect worker) that has been checked daily with a calibrated testing device can guarantee proper ESD protection but it does come down to complete use of tools and training. This is paramount to minimizing ESD damage. In our electronics industry this is a very important function to realize.

John

[Gunny]

But you have to know how to solder !!!

If you know how to solder, than you can make anything work. I use a cheepo walmart one. I use it more than the expensive one I have. Both do the job respectively.

[robinator63]

Portasol butane powered... Works great at home or at the pond.. ESD friendly, fits in your pocket..

I think Weller owns the portasol name now..

A bottle of butane lasts me years.

[martin]

Yes i know how to solder been doing it for more than 40 years, The question was because i need to get a new iron suitable for esc etc that contain sensitve components. Can you get away with a simple iron of the correct wattage or do you need one that is grounded or an even more complex one. Thanks.

[sampit]

This may help, the same questions been posted at Astec

http://astecmodels.myfreeforum.org/soldering_iron_recommendations_about18.html&start=10