Soldering Iron

2004-2-7

A soldering iron is not something most people would asssociate wiht modelling, but there are times when one can be very useful.

Simple soldering is the most robust method for joining copper or brass that most people will have easy access to. (More specialist joining methods do exist but are unlikely to be avialable to the average modeller).






The soldering iron merely provides the heat source for creating a joint, solder is required to 'do the business'.

For most modelling projects, flux cored solder is ideal both for convenience and cleanliness. The other essential requirement for soldered joints is to clean the metal. This can be done chemically or alternatively with wire wool or emery cloth.






It almost goes without saying that the use of a soldering iron falls into the advanced category of modelling techniques. Both the soldering iron and the workpiece will remain HOT for quite some time after being put aside. Work on a suitable surface, something heat resistant, and put aside any flammable products that may be on the bench. Care should also be taken to work in a well ventillated area to avoid breathing any flux fume.







A multi-purpose butane gas tool kit porvides even more flexibility for hot work. The set pictured has interchangable tips and nozzles - a hot knife, a hot air nozzle and a torch tip, as well as the soldering iron tip and solder cup.