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#1 Soldering Iron Tips

Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2022 10:56 pm
by 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

#2 Re: Soldering Iron Tips

Posted: Sat Aug 20, 2022 10:54 am
by Paul Barker
I dont know but as an old Weller user I hope its something like the flux you use!

#3 Re: Soldering Iron Tips

Posted: Sat Aug 20, 2022 10:57 am
by izzy wizzy
Flux is in the solder. Mayhaps I got some tips that weren't genuine Weller.

#4 Re: Soldering Iron Tips

Posted: Sat Aug 20, 2022 12:06 pm
by Paul Barker
Watch out for cats whiskers with youre unleaded solder!