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Soldering Tutorial

Soldering Tutorial

Personal Protective Equiment (PPE)

  • Required: Fume extractor
  • Optional: Mask, gloves, glasses

Tools

  • Lead-free solder
  • Drone motor
  • 3 male connectors
  • Wire cutters
  • Wire strippers
  • Desoldering wick
  • Work holder (e.g. helping hands)
  • Pliers

Procedure

  1. Prepare the Soldering Iron
  2. Use the largest soldering tip available (preferably knife-edge).
  3. Unscrew and replace the current tip carefully, avoiding damage to the heating element.
  4. Turn on the ventilation fan.
  5. Set the soldering iron to 750°F (400°C) and wait for it to reach the temperature.
  6. Tin the solder tip by flicking it in the brass wool, then place it in the holder.
  7. Prepare the Workpiece
  8. Cut off the male connector.
  9. Strip the wire to about 0.125 inches. Use the 12-gauge knotch.
  10. Solder the Connection
  11. Position the wire into the male connector.
  12. Have a partner hold the male connector with pliers (or use a work holder).
  13. Touch the soldering iron tip to the workpiece and wire simultaneously.
  14. Feed solder into the joint from the side. Feed faster than expected.
  15. Aim for a smooth surface finish that contours the connector.
  16. After soldering, gently tug the connector to ensure a secure connection.

Safety

  • Avoid inhaling fumes from burning flux (a polymer).
  • Tie back hair and loose clothing.
  • Always place the soldering iron in its holder when not in use.
  • Do not touch the soldering iron unless unplugged and cooled for at least 5 minutes.
  • Always turn off the soldering iron when walking away.
  • Use pliers to hold workpieces, as they conduct heat quickly.
  • Remove all flammable objects from the workspace.
  • Remove smart watches.
  • Do not use phones at the work station and without washing you hands to avoid spreading any metal or lead traces.

Troubleshooting

  • Dirty soldering tip: Re-tin the tip regularly.
  • Rough surface finish: Use flux and apply heat from the side of the iron, not the tip.
  • Desoldering: Lay the wick on the target area and apply heat from the side of the iron until solder liquefies.
  • Solder not attaching: Hold the iron on the joint longer to heat all parts (workpiece, wire, and solder) evenly.
  • Excessive errors: Cut the wire, strip, and start over.
  • White surface finish: Caused by excessive heat. Solder faster.
  • Surface imperfections (e.g., black or orange areas): Remelt and add solder or redo the joint completely.