If you are thinking of learning a new skill, soldering should be on the list. Soldering is a skill you might find useful in the future, especially if you are a DIYer. It can help you fix things at home and use it to do various projects.

While soldering is essential, there is an occasion wherein you’ll have to do some desoldering. You could desolder a joint if you learned the basics of soldering. But of course, you have to know the tips and tricks for a good outcome.

How to Desolder

Step 1: Complete your Equipment

First, gather all the equipment you will need for desoldering. You have to get a soldering iron and a device to remove the solder. The soldering iron will melt the solder and create a new joint. Now, be warned that not all soldering irons are good for desoldering. Choose an iron with 15W to 30W range, especially when working on a circuit board. High-powered iron can damage the component of the board. Thus, soldering guns, soldering stations, and commercial solder irons are not ideal for this task. If you feel confused about which soldering iron to use, you can ask help from Hand Tools For Fun.

Also, remember to get your safety gear. Soldering iron produces immense heat that can cause injuries. Make sure to wear protective gloves, and glasses while performing the task. Likewise, avoid wearing loose clothing and remove any debris from your working station.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Prepare the surface you will have to desolder. Remove any grease, varnish, and glue on the area before you begin heating.

Step 3: Heat the Iron Tip

Prepare the iron tip. Let it heat, and once it reaches the desired temperature, rest it against both the components. Immediately remove the iron after a second or two. However, you’ll have to let it stay longer for larger soldering pads.

Step 4: Remove the Solder

There are two devices you can use to desolder a joint; these are solder sucker and solder wick.

When using a solder sucker, push down plunger and lock it into place. The tool produces a ‘click’ sound indicating a lock. If not, you can push the small plug of the solder out of the nozzle. Once the device is secured, put the nozzle in the molten solder and press the button. The plunger will suck the solder from the joint. You will have to repeat this process a few times to remove the solder.

If you are using a solder wick, you have to heat the device first. Before starting, lay the wick over the joint while holding the iron’s tip on the wick. Once it heats up, the wick will slide, and the solder will flow into it. Replace the wick when filled with solder by cutting the used section and using a new portion of the spool.

Step 5: Clean

Clean the solder pad to remove excess resin and solder. However, make sure to use the right tools for cleaning, like the 000 steel wool.

More Thoughts

While soldering is fun and a great skill to have, you also need to learn how to desolder. If you have more questions on desoldering, you can ask help from Hand Tools For Fun.

3D printing is a new technology that has still lots of room for development. No doubt, 3D printing will improved more in the years to come; and it is not surprising if it will dominate various sectors.

Chances are you’ve seen videos on social media and heard from colleagues that 3D printing is quite a fascinating technology. Well, it is certainly interesting knowing that a simple image can become a real object. It is probably the reason that caught your attention and encouraged you to buy a 3D printer.

3D printers are not cheap. This machine is expensive, especially if its features targets advanced and professional use. Although 3D printers can last for several years, poor maintenance can reduce it is lifespan. To assure that your 3D printer will last longer, below are maintenance tips to keep your printer in the best shape.

#1 Keep it Clean

Dust and dirt can be big trouble once it accumulates. It could affect the printer’s performance and might cause further damage when not removed. Moreover, the remaining glue on the build plate will cause foreign particles and molten plastics to get stuck on the build plate. When it happens, it could result in improper prints and damage to the finished project.

You can avoid this by keeping the build plate and whole machine clean from glue, dust, molten plastic, and other debris. Use a clean cloth to remove the dirt. If wiping off the residue won’t work, you can dip the plate in warm water and clean it by using a cloth.

#2 Lubricate the Printer

Some of the moving metal parts of the printer stop working because of poor lubrication. It can lead to premature damage to the project when printing. The printing process will take longer than usual. Also, frequent stoppages can lead to further damage to the printer’s moving parts.

3D printers need regular lubrication to prevent stoppages. You can use sewing oil and other lubricants that are safe to use with plastic. But remember not to apply to much lubricating oil. Excessive lubrication will only attract grime, dust, and dirt.

#3 Do Regular Machine Checkup

Check the machine’s condition at least once every month. Look for signs of damages and tighten up loose pulley screws. Loose screws can result in the misaligned system and lead to poor printing quality.

If you notice broken parts in the printer, immediately swap it with new ones. You can ask help from reliable online sources, like the www.digi3dverse.com, to find out how to troubleshoot 3D printers and solve such issues.

#4 Replace Dirty Filters

Replace the printer’s filters when necessary. A filter that is in good condition supports ventilation and helps in a better printing job.

#5 Update the Firmware

Keep the 3D printer’s firmware updated. If not updated, the printer won’t function properly and you might encounter issues when printing. Thus, keeping your printer updated will assure the best performance and high-quality projects.

Conclusion

Remember that your 3D printer needs extra care and attention. With proper maintenance, you can preserve the printer’s lifespan and create impressive projects.

Do you have more questions on how to take care of your 3D printer? Ask help from the experts here at Digi 3Dverse.