How to Solder Iron to Metal
Soldering is a process of making a strong joint between two or more metals by joining them with a filler metal called solder. A low temperature melting point characterizes it, which is below 400 °C (752 °F). Solder is a metallic alloy used in putting metallic surfaces together. Melted solder on the tip of the iron flows to the metal surface for joining, and when it cools, it provides a good connection between the parts. The idea of soldering iron to metal is to get the metal hot enough and then introduce the solder without melting the metal itself. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Clean the metal surfaces of the objects you are going to join. Clamp the pieces so that the heat from the torch will not melt anything else.
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Light up the propane torch. Avoid putting the torch in one place for too long, or it will melt the metal itself; try moving it back and forth. Once the metals are heated, remove the torch immediately.
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Put the solder on the hot metal and coat the entire section needed.
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Touch the tip of the iron, face down, over the patch of solder on the metal, and then start to join the pieces together. You are going to put solder over the iron on top of the solder on the metal. Make sure that you have properly applied the second coating of the solder to achieve a glossy finish. If not, reheat it with the torch until it is shiny.
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Push the soldering iron slightly over the new patch of solder and swipe it over the entire area. When the solder that you just applied to the patch melts with the solder on the metal, you are done.
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Tips & Warnings
Always put the soldering iron and propane torch in their stands before plugging them in. You need the stands to keep the flammables away from the heat.
Work in a well-lit area. Make sure that there are not any items lying around on the worktable.
Use the right size of tip for each project. A wrong iron tip may not give you the best results.
Clean the tip of the soldering iron after every time used. Invest in a tip cleaning sponge. The tip should be shiny after cleaning, but avoid over wiping it to prevent oxidation.
Be careful in handling soldering iron; it can easily burn the skin or other objects.
Wear gloves if you have to touch any metal.
Always wash your hands after soldering; also avoid putting your hands on your face when working.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Solder wire image by naolin from Fotolia.com
