Soldering Tips for the WLC200

Work in a clean, ventilated space and regularly practice your soldering technique.

The Weller WLC200 adjustable power soldering station has several useful features for enhanced safety, efficiency of use and optimum soldering results. The power indicator light, lightweight stained glass iron, cushioned foam grip and guard iron holder make the WLC200 straightforward to use, but there a few extra tips and tricks you should know about to help you get the most out of the product.

Replaceable Parts

Make use of the replaceable parts option regularly to keep your WLC200 in good working condition. The heating element is replaceable and so is the MTG20 3/8-inch tip, tip cleaning sponge and Weller polishing bar, according to Cooper Hand Tools. Other soldering tips that are compatible with the WLC200 include the 1/4-inch chisel marksman, the 3/8-inch cone-shaped marksman, the MTG21 and MTG22. Each tip is iron-plated or, in the case of the Marksman series, nickel-plated for durability and heavy-duty soldering applications. Tips range in size slightly, from between .25 to .375 inch, according to Galco.

Adjustable Temperature

Soldering different seams together is made more advanced and specific with the WLC200 because of its adjustable temperature dial. Make the most of this feature to achieve the most resilient soldering results. The dial is located on the power base and can be altered between 5 and 80 watts. Start the soldering iron off at position "5" to heat it up for about 3 minutes, then reduce the temperature slightly to settings "4" or "3" to prepare for effective soldering.

Cleanliness

Keep the tip of the machine clean and free from debris and old, dried solder. The sponge should be wetted with only distilled water, because distilled water contains fewer impurities than ordinary water and will not leave unwanted residues on the soldering iron. Wipe the tip and iron carefully and evenly with the damp sponge to clean it after each soldering project.

Practice Makes Perfect

An effective, strong solder joint usually cannot be obtained if you have never used a soldering iron before, and even experts can have a poor result from time to time. Replacing old parts, keeping the temperature to an optimum and cleaning off debris are all excellent precautions to take, but simply trying out the soldering iron from time to time to practice your skills can improve the result of each proper project you undertake. Use unwanted pieces of metal, but never practice on dirty, unprepared surfaces, as this will damage the soldering tool.

References

• Cooper Hand Tools: Weller Model WLC200 Soldering Station
• Galco: Soldering Stations

Resources

• Test Equipment Depot: Weller WLC200 Adjustable Power Soldering Station
• T Equipment: Weller WLC200 Consumer Soldering Stations
• Technology Student: Soldering Techniques