How to Desolder Components

A clean soldering iron is the first step to desoldering.

Soldering is the process of joining electrical components with molten metal, which then cools and forms a solid connection between the components. This is done with a soldering iron, a pen-like tool with a heated tip. Anyone who uses solder in their work or hobbies should be skilled in desoldering as well. Desoldering is useful, primary because it is the only way to remove damaged components from electronic devices without destroying their circuit boards. A proper desoldering technique can help you avoid damaging your projects.

Preparing to desolder is exactly the same as preparing to solder. You'll need a clean tool and clean work surfaces. These elements are critical to allow the molten metal, or "solder" to flow as smoothly as possible.

Things You'll Need

• soldering iron
• desoldering pump (also called a solder sucker)
• small standard screwdriver
• toothbrush
• isopropyl alcohol

Instructions

1. Just as you would do to before soldering a connection together, clean the entire tip of the heated soldering iron with a damp sponge; do this frequently while using it.

2. Find the soldered terminals of the part to be removed and clean them with a toothbrush dampened with isopropyl alcohol.

3. Resolder the component to mix new solder with the old. This makes it easier to remove cleanly

4. Melt the connection as thoroughly as possible with the iron and immediately suck up the molten solder with the pump.

5. Repeat Steps 4 and 3, if necessary. You can wiggle the terminal, not the component, with a screwdriver to loosen it.

6. Before you remove the component, make a note of its polarity; any replacement will have to go in the same way.

7. Gently remove any resin and residue on the board with the screwdriver and alcohol-dampened toothbrush.

Tips & Warnings

• Instead of or in addition to a desoldering pump, there exists "desoldering braid." This a braided copper cord that actually wicks away molten solder when it is pressed down on the terminal with the tip of the soldering iron.

References

• Hardware Secrets: Soldering
• Everyday Practical Electronics: Soldering FAQ