The Stortz Blog

6 Keys to Successful Soldering

6keystosuccesfulsoldering

1. File & or wire brush your copper tip so it is as clean as possible

Remove the debris and dross from the copper tip prior to pre-tinning. This will make certain the copper tip is able to pre-tin properly for the best result.

 

Filing Soldering Tip

2. Pre-tin the copper tip

Melting hot solder onto the Sal-Block adds a thin layer of solder to the tip. This helps facilitate the soldering process with a proper setup.

3. Make certain the pieces are joined together with a clamp or rivet

Not a necessary step, but the tighter the seam is together, the easier the soldering process will be.

 

Masc Gutter Clamp RSZ033

4. Apply flux to both sides of the material

Review the assortment of fluxes available as each one may work better with a certain type of metal. Getting flux on both sides of the joint is essential.

 

Fluxing Copper before Soldering

5. Use minimal heat, be patient, and be thorough

Proper soldering technique is a skill not learned overnight. Understanding the right amount of heat and the pace at which you must draw the solder into the joint is important. Clean and neat is preferred to a messy joint.

 

 

A good solder joint will show through the other side to let you know it’s water tight

Soldering gutter

 

6. Remove the acid residue from the soldering joint

This step will make sure the flux doesn’t leave any undesired coloring.

 

 

About Us

John Stortz & Son, Inc. was founded in 1853 by the original John Stortz in Philadelphia. Currently headed by Tom, Jeff, and Sam, along with their dad and uncle; Stortz Tools continues to serve the tool industry quality specialty hand tools after over 170 years.

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