Alloy soldering iron tips are one of the major consumables used in electronic product soldering. Correct usage and maintenance of soldering iron tips not only extend their lifespan but also improve soldering quality, reduce rework, and lower production costs.

Before soldering:

Before starting soldering operations, wet the cleaning sponge and squeeze out excess water. Heat up the soldering iron tip and then wipe the soldering portion to remove any oxidation. Using a non-moistened cleaning sponge can damage the soldering portion and result in poor soldering.

During soldering:

When performing soldering operations, set the soldering temperature to a level that can keep up with the soldering frequency. Whenever possible, use lower soldering temperatures for the following reasons: a) It minimizes product damage, and b) It prolongs the tip's lifespan. Regularly clean the soldering portion of the tip during soldering to ensure smooth soldering and proper solder flow.

After soldering:

After completing the soldering operations, set the temperature to 250°C, clean the soldering iron tip by wiping it on a damp cleaning sponge to remove any solder residue, and then turn off the power. (If using a non-temperature-controlled soldering iron, unplug it first, clean the soldering portion, and apply fresh solder for protection once the temperature drops to 250°C.)

Important notes:

Use lower soldering temperatures whenever possible. At temperatures exceeding 450°C, the oxidation rate of the tip is more than twice that at 380°C, significantly reducing the lifespan of the soldering iron tip.

Avoid dry burning the soldering iron tip when not in use. Dry burning accelerates oxidation of the soldering portion, resulting in oxidation, blackening, poor solder flow, and shortened lifespan.

The surface of the soldering iron tip has a special alloy plating. Do not use sandpaper, files, or other abrasive tools to clean the soldering portion of the tip.