Operating Temperature; General Maintenance; Tip Maintenance - Velleman VTSUSB User Manual

6.

Operating Temperature

The most common soldering alloys used in the electronics industry consist of 60 % tin and 40 % lead.
The operating temperature of this type of solder is detailed below and can vary from manufacturer to
manufacturer. However, to meet RoHS requirements, these solders are no longer allowed and are
replaced by lead-free solders that require a working temperature which is ± 30 °C (54 °F) higher.
Melting point
Normal operation
Production line operation
A good joint is assured if the iron's operating temperature is set within the parameters suitable for the
type of solder being used. The solder will flow too slowly if the temperature is too low; if the temperature
is too high, the flux in the solder may burn which will give rise to billowing white smoke. In turn, this will
result in a dry joint or in permanent damage to the PCB.
7. Maintenance
7.1

General Maintenance


Soldering tips can be replaced simply by unscrewing the barrel nut assembly. Allow it to cool down
first.

After removing the tip, you should blow out any oxide dust that may have formed in the tip
receptacle. Be careful not to get dust in your eyes. Replace the tip and tighten the screw. Pliers can
be used to avoid contact with hot surfaces BUT SHOULD BE USED WITH CAUTION because over-
tightening may cause damage to the element or fuse the tip to the element.

The outer cover of the iron may be cleaned with a damp cloth using small amounts of liquid
detergent. Never submerse the unit in liquid. Never use any solvent to clean the case.
7.2

Tip Maintenance

The soldering iron uses extremely high temperatures. Make sure that the unit is switched off for
maintenance purposes.
Remove the tip and clean it after heavy or moderate use. We recommend cleaning the tip daily if used
frequently.
The supplied soldering tip is made of copper covered with a layer of iron. It will retain its projected life
span if used properly.

Always tin the tip before returning it to the holder, prior to turning off or to storing it for long periods.
Wipe the tip on a wet sponge or use our tip cleaner before activating the device.

Using excessive temperatures (more than 400 °C or 750 °F) will shorten the life span of the tip.

Do not exercise excessive pressure on the tip while soldering, as this may cause damage to the tip.

Never clean the tip with a file or with abrasive materials.

Do not use flux containing chloride or acid. Use only resinous fluxes.

If an oxide film has formed, you should remove it by buffing carefully with a 600-800 grit emery
cloth or by using isopropyl alcohol and consequently applying a new protective layer of solder.

The iron will be ready for use once the LED switches off.
IMPORTANT

Remove and clean the tip daily. Remove excess solder from the barrel nut assembly when installing a
new tip, otherwise the tip may be fused to the heating element or to the retaining assembly.
7.3 Common Causes for Tip Failure

The temperature of the tip exceeds 410 °C.

The tip is not sufficiently tinned.

Wiping the tip on a surface with a high sulphur content or on a dirty or dry sponge.

Contact with organic or chemical substances such as plastic, resin, silicone and grease.

Impurities in the solder and/or a low tin content.
V. 01 – 06/06/2017
VTSUSB
leaded solder
215 °C (419 °F)
270-320 °C (518-608 °F)
320-380 °C (608-716 °F)
4
lead-free solder
220 °C (428 °F)
300-360 °C (572-680 °F)
360-410 °C (680-770 °F)
©Velleman nv