Rio Grande Rio Instructions

Rio Soldering Machine Instructions
The Rio Soldering machine produces intense, localized heat
transfer using an electrical energy source. It's a great choice
for soldering jobs where a torch flame is difficult to use
without damaging fine or filigree pieces.
The machine is designed to operate on 115 volts, 60 cycle
AC current. A 15-amp circuit is adequate providing the line
is not overloaded with other equipment. After connecting
the machine to a properly grounded wall outlet, step on
the actuating foot control. A buzzing sound will indicate
the machine is receiving current.
The Rio Soldering machine is shockproof. The voltage at
the highest heat is very low, so if your hands touch the
contacts, you will not receive a shock. The temperature,
however, does get quite high; touching the carbon
electrodes while soldering at high heat can result in a burn,
so please use caution.
The heat for soldering is produced electrically, without
flame, by touching the carbon electrode to your workpiece.
The current passing through the electrode will heat the
area in milliseconds.
Suggested Uses for the Rio Soldering Machine
Soldering jobs that would be difficult or impossible to perform with
flame soldering are easily and safely accomplished with the Rio soldering
machine. For example, eyeglass frames with xylo pads can be soldered
near the pad and quenched before the heat has traveled far enough to
cause damage. Fine chains can be held in a pair of insulated tweezers
with the contact clip attached to the tweezer. Sizing rings to a larger size
can be done by using a length of ring-sizing material much longer than
required and soldering on one side first, then shaping the material to
size and soldering on the other side.
An emery cloth attached to the top of the bench is useful for removing
flux from the piece and for cleaning the carbons.
If crystallized flux breaks the contact while soldering, move the work to another spot on the carbon or scrape the flux from the
piece when it makes contact. Please Note: Do not increase the heat if the contact is broken, as this may damage your piece.
Tip
— When first using this machine, it is a good idea to practice with old parts
to get familiar with the machine and its operation before working on new parts.
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Remove all packing materials prior to setup.
Safety Precautions
•
Always wear proper eye protection.
•
Never wear loose clothing or long
chains/necklaces, and keep long hair
pulled back.
•
Exercise caution when placing hands
and fingers near hot areas.
•
Unplug the unit when not in use.