<< Introduction to Soldering - Part One: Soldering Station VS Soldering Iron
Introduction to Soldering - Part Three: What is Desoldering? >>
Introduction to Soldering - Part Four: Selecting the Right Tip >>
Everything you need to know to begin soldering: Equipment Needed
So you've decided to embark on a soldering project and have selected your soldering station/soldering iron. What else is needed?
Look through this checklist to make sure you have everything you need for an enjoyable soldering experience!
There are a wide variety of soldering stations and irons offered by Hakko Products. Different models have their unique features, look through our online catalogue to determine which suits you best! Not sure what's the difference between a soldering station and an iron? Check out our guide below!
Guide: Soldering Station VS Soldering Iron
Have you been using the same tip for all your soldering projects?
There are a variety of different soldering tip shapes that are meant for different applications. By selecting the right tip, you can increase efficiency by reducing the time taken to melt the solder, and improve connectivity by having the right amount of solder on your components.
Check out our guides on selecting the right tip and use the Tip Selection Guide to learn more about the different tip shapes and its applications!
*Please note that not all soldering tips are interchangeable between soldering irons - each iron model has its own series of compatible tips.
Guide: Selecting the Right Tip
Solder Wire is essential in soldering. With a wide range of variety, it is essential to have the right type of wire for your application.
Hakko Products do not sell solder wires currently. However, in line with our eco-friendly practices, we recommend using lead-free solder in your projects.
In order to lengthen the lifespan of your soldering tips, encourage efficient and complete heat-up, and improve overall soldering experience, it is important to keep your tips clean between each soldering session. Hakko Products carry a variety of tip cleaning appliances, from simple cleaning wires (599B) to automated tip cleaners (FT-720). Look through our catalogue for more!
If you have purchased a soldering station, an iron holder is included. Otherwise, it is recommended to have an iron holder to store your iron in the correct position when not in use.
Some iron holders have additional receptacles that you can purchase separately to hold soldering irons with tube unit and guide pipe assemblies attached.
Soldering often creates fumes that are harmful especially if there is inadequate ventilation in your workspace. To combat that, we advise that you solder in open spaces, rooms with good ventilation, or invest in a smoke absorber to remove the fumes.
Additional hand tools may be required during soldering, such as tweezers to hold intricate components in place or wire strippers to expose wires for a stronger connection. Wire cutters and pliers are also good tools to have in your workspace to cut wires or hold components securely.
Shop Cutters, Pliers and Multi-Tools
Desoldering is an important aspect of soldering. As the name suggests, desoldering tools help remove solder or excess solder from your components. This usually comes in handy when you are trying to take apart an existing circuit board, or accidentally used too much solder while soldering.
Most of our products and accessories are designed to be safe from electrostatic discharge (ESD-safe). However, those working in labs or production lines, as well as those working with complicated or sensitive components may require an ESD Wrist Strap to prevent the build up of static electricity. Static electricity may cause sparks or damage sensitive electronics.
An antistatic wrist strap, ESD wrist strap, or ground bracelet is an antistatic device used to safely ground a person working on very sensitive electronic equipment, to prevent the buildup of static electricity on their body. One side of the strap is wrapped around the wrist, while the other side is grounded to direct static electricity into the ground.
Not sure what equipment to get? Drop us a message with details of your experience level as well as the types of projects you are working on, and our team will suggest the product with the best fit!
<< Introduction to Soldering - Part One: Soldering Station VS Soldering Iron
Introduction to Soldering - Part Three: What is Desoldering? >>
Introduction to Soldering - Part Four: Selecting the Right Tip >>