Soldering Iron Tips

[izzy wizzy]

I have an ancient Weller Iron WTCP series that's over 40 years old and still going strong apart from one thing.

I recently bought a selection of replacement PT tips from chisel to fine point and also changed my lead solder to lead free. Now the tips last only a month, sometimes a week before dissolving. In making the GM70 amp, I went through about 4. Previously they lasted years, possibly a decade.

Is this a thing with the new solders? Have I just got a bad batch; some cheapo things? I bought them from Farnell I think or maybe Rapid; would have to look that up.

Could I be looking at a legacy thing and finally have to update my iron?

Thanks.
Stephen

[Paul Barker]

I dont know but as an old Weller user I hope its something like the flux you use!

[izzy wizzy]

Flux is in the solder. Mayhaps I got some tips that weren't genuine Weller.

[Paul Barker]

Watch out for cats whiskers with youre unleaded solder!