Learn How to Apply Solder on Components to Avoid the Risk of Discontinuity

Soldering is a precision process. The most minor errors can lead to high inefficiencies in an assembled printed circuit board. The most problematic error that can occur is discontinuity. Not only does it create electrical glitches in the printed circuit board, but also the joints of the components are compromised. In this article, you will learn how to apply solder onto components to avoid the risk of discontinuity while applying proper soldering techniques.

Tip #1: Choose your soldering iron wisely.

Most PCB enthusiasts choose to use complex temperature-control soldering irons. While that does give you flexibility, it also limits utility. True soldering connoisseurs actually prefer getting fixed temperature irons. They are ideal to use where heat is required to be lessened or increased, by varying the soldering alloy or tip size to achieve the desired heating while soldering. Fine tips do not transfer as much heat, and so are ideal if you wish to reduce the temperature. However, to achieve neat work in miniature soldering jobs, a fine tip may not help as much as selecting a thin solder would. A good rule of thumb is if you have to hold the soldering iron any longer than 2-3 seconds, you probably made a mistake in your selections. Improper/insufficient heating of the iron also directly results in improperly molten solder alloy, which compromises the job and creates discontinuities.

Tip #2: Don’t overlook the importance of cleaning.

Dust and debris that settles onto a printed circuit board is more often than not the culprit of bad, discontinuous joints. Since soldering involves fusing two surfaces together via molten alloys, it is important that disturbances do not creep in between these fused joints. Many solvents and cleaners are available in the market to clean all sorts of particulates from the board. If you leave impurities on the board, your soldering will not be continuous. The joint will not come out strong, and you will be facing the risk of malfunction. Detailed planning should be executed flawlessly. Take cleaning very seriously and follow cleaning protocols meticulously.

Tip #3: Only apply heat where needed.

While soldering, some people heat up the solder alloy, and some people heat up the joint. Heating the solder may make it drip in places you don’t want it to, creating unnecessary lumps and wasting the alloy. Instead, just heat up the place you want to solder, and touch the alloy there. This will ensure there is no wastage, and the right place gets the right amount of alloy.

Following these tips will help you employ a proper method of soldering and will lead to good solder joints!

About the Author:

Alpha Assembly Solutions, Inc. is the global leader in the development, manufacturing and sales of innovative specialty materials used in a wide range of industry segments, including electronics assembly, power electronics, die attach, LED lighting, photovoltaics, semiconductor packaging, automotive and others. Since its founding in 1872, Alpha has been committed to developing and manufacturing the highest quality specialty materials.