Introduction

Solder (pronounced without the ‘l’) is a metal alloy (typically 60% Tin, and 40% Lead) that is used to bond metal elements together. Bonding, i.e., solding, is done by heating up the elements enough such that the sold melts when it comes in contact. The sold cools quickly and transforms back to a solid again.

The tip of the solding iron is used to heat up the elements, not the solder. A temperature adjustable soldering iron is required to control how hot the elements are heated. Care must be taken to avoid heating the elements to high and damaging them. A good starting temperature is 300 and 325 degress celcuis.

Flux (resin) is used to reduce oxidation when bonding elements together.

Tinting wires: Is the technique of pre-loading the wire with solder. Later, when the wire is connected to another wire or element, its solder is melted and used to improve the bond the other element.

Tinting elements: Like tinting wires, elements can be tinted prior to soldering with another element. Heat up the element, a hole on a PCB board and melt solder into it. Next when the other element is read for bonding, reheat the elements and then join together. The solder from both elements should combine into a single solid bond.

An ohm meter is used to evaluate continuity and test bond’s electrical ability.

Helping hands: is used to hold an element and free up your hands for controling the soldering iron and solder.

Video Resource

For a more detailed explanation of these concepts, check out these videoa: Soldering Crash Course: Basic Techniques, Tips and Advice!