Soldering is a process of joining two metal surfaces together using a filler metal called solder. The soldering process involves heating the surfaces to be joined and melting the solder, which is then allowed to cool and solidify, creating a strong and durable joint

Some tips for a good soldering technique:
Have a soldering iron that suits you. Soldering stations make soldering easy and straightforward.
The soldering iron should be hot.
Hold the soldering iron against the components to be joined until they are both at the same temperature.
Add solder to the joint.
Do not move the parts until the solder has cooled.
The ideal finish of a good solder joint is a concave fillet.

Good to know !

• Use the right soldering iron: A good soldering iron with a temperature control is essential. A 40-60 watt soldering iron is recommended for most electronic projects. A variable temperature iron will allow you to adjust the temperature based on the components you’re working with.
• Choose the right solder: There are different types of solder available, including leaded and lead-free. Make sure to choose the right type of solder for your project. Lead-free solder is typically better for the environment, but it requires a higher temperature to melt.
• Prepare your components: Make sure to clean and prepare the components before soldering. Remove any oxidation or residue using a wire brush or sandpaper. This will help the solder flow more easily.
• Use the right amount of solder: Use just enough solder to create a good connection. Too much solder can create cold solder joints, while too little solder may result in a weak connection.
• Use flux: Flux is a material used to help the solder flow more easily. It also helps to prevent oxidation during the soldering process. Apply a small amount of flux to the components before soldering.
• Hold components steady: Use a helping hand or clamp to hold components in place while soldering. This will help ensure a stable connection.
• Keep the tip clean: A clean soldering iron tip will help the solder flow more easily. Use a damp sponge or brass wire cleaner to clean the tip before and after each use.
• Let the joint cool: It’s important to let the joint cool completely before moving it. Moving the joint before it’s cool can create a cold solder joint.
• Practice: Soldering takes practice to master. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts don’t come out perfectly. Keep practicing and trying different techniques until you feel comfortable.
• Be safe: Always take safety precautions when soldering. Wear safety glasses, work in a well-ventilated area, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled solderer. Remember to take your time and have fun with your projects!

There are several rules of soldering that everybody, regardless of their skill level, should follow at all times.

• Never inhale the dust and the fumes that can be produced by the soldering iron! These can be hazardous, so please don’t inhale them.
• Never touch the tip of the soldering iron! Even if the soldering iron is turned off or completely disconnected from the power source, there is still a possibility that it’s very hot and, therefore, can cause very uncomfortable pain if touched. Always keep it facing away from your hands. If you’re finished with the soldering iron, unplug it from the power source and leave it to cool off for at least five minutes before putting it back in the box.
• Clean the soldering iron! The sponge is your best friend while soldering. Make sure to use it often and clean your soldering iron if you wish to have an easy and simple soldering experience. Carefully hold one part of the sponge with one hand and wipe the tip of the soldering iron on the other part of the sponge to remove the extra solder. Repeat the process until the tip of the iron is nice and clean from the old solder.
• Check your solder joints twice (at least)! Most of the malfunctions in the world of electronics are due to bad solder joints, so regardless if this is your first or 100th soldering project, always make sure to inspect your joints multiple times before proceeding to the next step.
• Keep the soldering iron on the stand when you’re not using it.
• Know how much solder is needed! Make sure to put just enough solder, not too much, and not too little, since both can cause the device to malfunction.
• Don’t leave any residual solder on the board! The solder should only be on the parts where the pins connect to the board. Everything else should be clean. Little pieces of solder all over the board are a big no-no!

Here are three important know-hows for soldering best practices:

Temperature control: It’s important to have good temperature control when soldering. The soldering iron should be hot enough to melt the solder and create a good joint, but not so hot that it damages the components or the circuit board. A soldering iron with adjustable temperature control is ideal, so you can adjust the temperature based on the components you’re working with.

Flux use: Flux is a material that helps the solder flow more easily and prevents oxidation during the soldering process. Using flux can make a big difference in the quality of your solder joints. Make sure to use the appropriate type of flux for the type of solder you’re using.

Proper joint preparation: Proper preparation of the joint is essential for a good solder connection. Make sure the joint is clean and free of oxidation and debris. Use wire cutters and strippers to trim and strip wires to the appropriate length, and twist the strands of wire together before soldering to create a strong connection. Proper preparation of the joint will ensure that the solder flows smoothly and creates a strong bond between the components.

By mastering these three important know-hows, you’ll be well on your way to achieving high-quality soldering results. Remember to practice regularly and take safety precautions to ensure a successful and safe soldering experience.

Easy to practice
CircuitMess has a variety of soldering products that can be used for soldering. They have a soldering iron kit that includes a soldering iron (60W of power, replaceable tips), solder sucker, Philips screwdriver, needle nose pliers, diagonal cutter pliers, metal soldering iron stand, and a sponge. They also have a soldering practice kit for kids 9+ called Wacky Robots

Fun fact

Soldering and brazing are thought to have originated very early in the history of metal-working, probably before 4000 BC. Sumerian swords from c. 3000 BC were assembled using hard soldering. Soldering was historically used to make jewelry, cookware and cooking tools, assembling stained glass, as well as other uses.

In 1896, Richard Snyder and August Tinnerholm were granted a patent for the invention of the “electric heating apparatus,” or what’s better known as the modern electric soldering iron