Lead free solder

[Tim CooperParticipant @timcooper90034]

I found myself in an unusual position of having to think about buying some solder. I seem to have managed for 40 odd years off a large reel given to me by my Dad and bits supplied with soldering irons. Should I buy some lead free solder or stay with lead solder? I notice that the lead free has a slightly higher melting point. I guess I should change away from the flux paste my Dad gave me as well.

Tim

[Tim CooperParticipant @timcooper90034]

[Dave MilbournParticipant @davemilbourn48782]

Tim

Lead-free solder does melt at a higher temperature. It also requires special coatings on the iron bits to prevent them from corroding and breaking down very quickly. The Weller tips I use are seven quid apiece! Manufacturers of electronics are legally obliged to use the stuff but in my view a decent resin-cored, lead-based solder is best for most modelling applications. This stuff is typical Tin/Lead solder

Dave M

[Tim CooperParticipant @timcooper90034]

Thanks Dave

I will get some ordered.

The cabin is more or less fitted out inside and proving very useful. With all the wet weather the door keeps sticking. Waiting for the dry, warm weather ( if we ever get some) to sort it out.

Tim

[ashley needhamParticipant @ashleyneedham69188]

I bought some non-lead solder ages ago (after using up a roll I had had for years) and used it once before getting the real thing. Didn’t get on with it.

i also have a stick of plumbers solder (non fluxed) which is harder than the electrical stuff.

Ashley

[Bob WilsonParticipant @bobwilson59101]

I first heard of "lead free" some time ago when I thought that I had lost the ability to solder. Just couldn't do it any more. (I had just got a new reel) Then someone told me, and I got a stock of 60/40 tin lead cored solder from Ebay, and was able to solder again. You can still get it there. Because it is a bit toxic, I have a fume extractor that sucks it away from me when using it – Bob

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