Solder

[rimist]

Does any one use lead free solder?

[JonB256]

For plumbing, yes. Circuit boards? no way.

[JoeFromOzarks]

For electronics, I use both leaded and unleaded, depends on the project.

joe

[rimist]

Any tips or tricks to using lead free solder?

[JoeFromOzarks]

Any tips or tricks to using lead free solder?

I’m sure this post will draw alternate opinions;  my “secrets” for lead-free soldering are:

-Use not only a separate solder tip, but also a separate iron that’ll run higher temperatures.
-Use flux specifically for lead-free solders.
-Make sure the component leads are clean prior to fluxing.
-Make double sure the PCB pads/holes are very clean prior to fluxing.
-Solder hot (700f) and solder very quick.
-Preheat the PCB.
-Never re-solder a joint.  De-solder, clean thoroughly then solder.
-When repairing boards, never apply leaded solder to a previously lead-free PCB.  Never apply lead-free solder to a leaded solder joint.
-Remember that lead-free solder joints are dull and grainy compared to leaded joints that must be shiny and smooth!!!
-And finally, stay away from lead-free unless you positively, absolutely, undoubtedly must use lead-free!   Wanna save the planet?  Quit using plastic water bottles!

joe

[chrisatpsu]

i'm saving the planet, by placing the lead in my solder  : )

i use leaded solder, it just works really well for me.
maybe, i'm just grumpy and set in my ways

[paul58]

I like lead in my solder. Smooth soldering that way. Never did like the way lead free flows.

[sirloinofbeef001]

Coming from a plumber, lead solder flows better than lead-free.

[Penfold]

My first year or two I used lead free solder.  If you are going to go this route you NEED liquid flux.  When I found out how wonderful 63/37 was I couldn't stop beating my head against a brick wall <fp.

There is no comparison.  Lead free has to be soldered in with a hotter iron and it is a pain to desolder.  63/37 is ooooooh soooooo much easier to solder with.  You don't have to run your soldering iron as hot and it is soooooooo much easier to desolder!

[sirloinofbeef001]

 <la.. I'll drink to that.

[chrisatpsu]

My first year or two I used lead free solder.  If you are going to go this route you NEED liquid flux.  When I found out how wonderful 63/37 was I couldn't stop beating my head against a brick wall <fp.

There is no comparison.  Lead free has to be soldered in with a hotter iron and it is a pain to desolder.  63/37 is ooooooh soooooo much easier to solder with.  You don't have to run your soldering iron as hot and it is soooooooo much easier to desolder!

what about a flux capacitor?

[rm357]

Bang on the box with a rubber mallet each year before the first power up to break off the tin whiskers... Not hard mind you, but a few mild whacks.

Most lead-free formulations are prone to tin whisker growth. In a low vibration environment, these can cause low resistance paths between components that are pretty close to each other... Like adjacent pads on a chip...

RM

[rrawlings]

Having been to many symposiums and presentations at trade shows about implementing lead free process for ROHS certification I have come to one conclusion, only use lead free if someone has a gun to your head.  There is a reason that there is an exception in the ROHS rules for aerospace and medical, if a life depends on the product not failing do not use lead free solder.  I am afraid my days of manufacturing in the lead world.

[chrisatpsu]

There is a reason that there is an exception in the ROHS rules for aerospace and medical, if a life depends on the product not failing do not use lead free solder. 

Prevention of Electricution could be a reason to use lead solder....

[rimist]

Well then... Returning the lead free I accidentally ordered, and placed as order for leaded.