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Anyone else have problems with "lead free" solder?
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Anyone else have problems with "lead free" solder?Posted:

Psychonauts
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Hey everyone, I don't really know where else to post this and this is the forum I'm most familiar with so here it is.

Anyways, on topic, I've been practicing soldering on some old wires getting old fans to run and stuff. Anyways, lead-free splder always gives me problems flowing on to wires and points. I use a water-based flux, it's like a white thick cream. My iron is 45w but it seems to sometimes have problems melting the solder... Does anyone have any tips on how I can like, get this to work? I'll probably pick up a new iron because I think mine is faulty. The point doesn't get hot enough to melt the solder.

Thanks in advance guys!
#2. Posted:
TheWeekendModder
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Cheeba wrote Hey everyone, I don't really know where else to post this and this is the forum I'm most familiar with so here it is.

Anyways, on topic, I've been practicing soldering on some old wires getting old fans to run and stuff. Anyways, lead-free splder always gives me problems flowing on to wires and points. I use a water-based flux, it's like a white thick cream. My iron is 45w but it seems to sometimes have problems melting the solder... Does anyone have any tips on how I can like, get this to work? I'll probably pick up a new iron because I think mine is faulty. The point doesn't get hot enough to melt the solder.

Thanks in advance guys!


Lead free solder is terrible, and should be avoided unless the application specifically requires it. Pick up some 60/40 tin/lead solder and you'll notice a world of difference.
#3. Posted:
chevyrydinhigh2
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[ Register or Signin to view external links. ] . As far as the lead free solder goes, you need a higher powered soldering iron, you prob want around an 80w or so at least with the right tip. Maybe read [ Register or Signin to view external links. ]
#4. Posted:
GotDibzOnCookies
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Lead free solder melts 40 more degrees Fahrenheit than regular 60/40 solder. I believe
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