Recomend me sodering accessories  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: sairfan1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2023, 09:21:52 pm
content: I'm currently using soldering accessories bought from aliexpress they are ok but I'm not comfirtable while doing SMD soldering and decided to buy from Digikey can someone please advise which brand/type should i buy from Digikey for SMD soldering, like solder, solder paste and cleaning.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2023, 10:26:49 pm
content: I don't know what you mean by cleaning but you should be able to find 90-99% IPA at the local drugstore or similar.Solder paste, if leaded:https://www.digikey.ca/en/products/detail/chip-quik-inc/TS391AX/7802225Solder, if leaded:https://www.digikey.ca/en/products/detail/chip-quik-inc/NCSW-020-0-3OZ/13531439https://www.digikey.ca/en/products/detail/chip-quik-inc/SMDSW-020-1OZ/2177054You can also check out companies likehttps://www.accessotronik.com/or lees if you are in BC.

author: xavier60
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2023, 10:53:12 pm
content: Part of my limited advice would have been to suggest the Hakko FX888D soldering station, Digikey don't seem to stock it.For flux, Caig, Amtech or Kester to name few, so long as it's the Rosin Mildly Activated, RMA, type.Especially for hand soldering small SMD components like 0805 and SOIC pins, use 0.5mm flux(RMA) cored 60/40 leaded solder, unless you have a reason to use lead free.As for the soldering tip, the most versatile one I have found for SMD is the Hakko T18-S4 although it often receives criticism for being conical.Alternatives would be selection of chisel types starting at 1.2mm. Avoid unnecessary long and thin tips and types with large spherical points.I dont do reflow soldering with paste, so can't comment.Some example of of what the FX888D(240V) can be bought for in my country,https://www.oritech.com.au/hakko-fx888d-soldering-station.htmlhttps://mektronics.com.au/products/hakko-fx-888d-digital-soldering-station-genuine?currency=AUD&variant=41043924484252&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=Cj0KCQjw06-oBhC6ARIsAGuzdw0xHjDY07vIm7HE1Jv5nQSyM8pohwyUmyHYpNRcFSwRDzGGncDBP5QaAr_MEALw_wcB

author: MathWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2023, 03:38:32 am
content: I've have a set of cheap SMD tweezers. Most have bent tips. The tips could be hardened, so the don't deform as easily. But aside from that and if you don't put to much pressure on them (use them gently), they are great.They also work great for picking through hole parts out of containers, etc, or picking up off anything. And also work pretty good on a breadboard, or protoboard, with through hole parts. I find it way easier to pluck a part off a crowded breadboard with them.I'm not a fan of using sponges on solder tips, I just don't bother anymore, haven't in years. I just use scubber pad type things.Solder pumps can be annoying, they clog easy, but when working right, are a big time and money saver for de-soldering. Even a pack of cheap ones. I use a tooth brush to clean them, and use a bit of light oil on their gaskets.A few sizes of solder braid really comes in handy too.I've been happy with MG Chemical's 40/60 solder. I use 1 of their RM or RMA fluxes too, it's strong, but leaves a nasty conductive residue. Some stuff I'll never use it for again, too hard to clean off, like from under chips.