The subject of soldering is one that most members of the general public do not encounter every day. Yet it forms an integral part of modern life. Whilst most people are unfamiliar with the art of soldering, they rely daily on items that contain soldered components such as mobile phones and personal computers.
The principles of soldering are clear. There is a basic general knowledge of the procedure. This has come about due to the use of soldering irons in hobbies such as model making, and perhaps model railway construction. Desoldering is a lesser recognised procedure, but is just as important, especially concerning the repair and possible recycling of our modern everyday gadgets.
The art of removing soldered components is one which requires the correct tools. The key is not to overheat and thereby damage any of the surrounding components on the circuit board. Whilst they can be used for a variety of different applications, today more than ever temperature controlled soldering and desoldering stations are being used to repair or modify items that most people would throw away, presuming them to be broken and therefore worthless.
A basic soldering iron is something that many of us would find in the home. Not so recognisable perhaps is the desoldering station. More likely to be found in a workshop specifically dealing with repairs, the desoldering station allows components to be removed through a targeted heating process. The temperature and flow of the heat can be controlled, reducing the risk of the overheating of surrounding areas. Once at the desired temperature, the solder becomes molten. A high pressure vacuum gun, with a specific nozzle is held in place and activated. The sodler is sucked away and the component can be removed with ease, either with a suction gun, or perhaps a pair of tweezers. A variety of desoldering nozzles are available to ensure that heat is directed only to the part of the job that requires it.