Hey, everybody. I have a quick question. What are the best types of solder for: A) Layout/Engine Wiring B) Brass/Wire Detail Parts So far I've been using the 60/40 rosin core solder that came in my cordless soldering iron set. Is this what I should be using?
Solder Types For electronics wiring of any type, you should ALWAYS use a good rosin-core solder. NEVER use any kind of flux, as it will corrode the electronic connections. The 60/40 solder that came with your soldering iron is fine for the electronics. And make sure you clean the solder connections when you are finished, using isopropyl alcohol to remove any residue. This will prevent "bridging" in case there is a little bit of conductive material in the flux. For the brass and wire detail parts, using an all-purpose flux is a good idea to ensure the parts to be soldered are clean. Solid-wire solder is appropriate for these materials. And avoid silver-bearing solder unless it has a very low melting temperature to prevent warping of the materials. Good luck! :tb-biggrin: Don
Don - Please explain why you would not use flux for electrical soldering. Rosin flux is basically the same material as found in rosin-core solder. With rosin-core solder, I seldom need a separate flux, but I have used it on occasion with good results. What you do not want to use for electrical soldering is acid flux or plumber's flux. That stuff will indeed corrode electrical connections. - Jeff
