Soldering tips

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I am in the military and have attended military soldering schools. I have noticed that there have been a few soldering questions. I thought I would add these tips that will make you connections even better.
Never strip your wire with wire strippers. The pull stresses and weakens the wire. We always use a razor blade to cut around the wire to remove the insulation. Do not nick the wire with the blade.
Never pull the solder apart. Always cut. The pull thins the wire, which causes uneven flow.
Always wipe the solder with alcohol before soldering. (dont grip hard and pull!) The oil in your fingers causes impurities in the solder connection.
Never hold the solder in your mouth - Lead poisoning over time.
Don't breath the smoke in.
This is more time consuming, but worth it. I Just finished 700 solder points on a Velleman, and a AE3 this way with great results.
I have seen issues concerning the ground connection on the Belden interconnects. I used a miniature butane torch to heat the outside of the connector, periodically flaming the ground itself with precision not to burn the center insulation. Remember the metal and the wire must both be hot enough to melt solder. Screwed one up, but did 4 more successfully. Remember tin the wire!!!
Happy soldering!!!
Happy listening!!!
Steve

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Topic - Soldering tips - Steve 12:52:21 05/18/00 (8)

Re: Soldering tips - Errol 11:39:11 05/22/00 (2)

Re: Soldering tips - john curl 18:01:35 05/23/00 (1)

Re: Soldering tips....Double-clip gadget to hold wires in place! - Gariver 08:49:24 05/26/00 (0)

Is Isopropyl rubbing Alcohol ok for solder cleaning?[nt] - Kent 20:55:54 05/19/00 (2)

Yes, Anything is better then the oil from your skin. - Steve 22:23:38 05/19/00 (1)

Make sure its Isopropyl 99%, not rubbing alcohol.... - Frank E 11:10:15 05/20/00 (0)

Excellent Advice, never thought of cleaning solder prior to use, figured the heat would burn of impurities! [nt] - TBone 07:16:34 05/19/00 (0)

Nice tips - Thanks! (nt) - Phil H. 17:24:51 05/18/00 (0)

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