How Long Should A Soldering Iron Tip Last
When the heating element fails the soldering iron can no longer produce heat.
How long should a soldering iron tip last. When using the iron keep a little solder on the tip when the iron is in the stand. I have bought cheap Made in China soldering irons that only last for 1 week after used for 2-3 times. Leave a bit of fresh solder on the tip when you return the iron to the holder.
Some of these factors include. After a minute or two the iron should be hot enough to steam when touched to the sponge. 1 no temperature control designs which are usually the least expensive and suitable for household soldering jobs plug in and are ready to go after theyve warmed up.
Remember just switching the iron off every break and lunch could account for 5 hours use a week per iron. The flux in tip cleaner removes the oxidation and build up from the soldering iron tip and then the solder re-tins the tip ready for use. To last long treat it gently.
In this case the tip is likely to become oxidized very quickly and may not have a very useful long. 600- 650F 316- 343C is a good place to start for lead-based solder and 650- 700F 343- 371C for lead-free solder. HAKKO soldering iron tips do not have any type of shelf life.
They normally can last for years. A soldering iron is a handy tool with a metal tip that can reach 800 degrees Fahrenheit hot in a snap. I have bought cheap Made in China soldering irons that only last for 1 week after used for 2-3 times.
But as long as the heating elements dont get broken and the tips stay shinny. By coating the iron tip with a few drops of solder the solder forms a barrier between the tips metal and the air around it helping to preserve the tip. If the iron doesnt have replaceable tips get rid of it.