Questions on Temp Controlled Soldering Station

[SilverFox]

I've recently switched to a temperature controlled soldering station and have some questions.

EDSYN 951SX. After checking reviews this seemed to be a very good alternative to the Weller similar station so I bought it for $90. Temp range is 400 F, (205 C) to 800 F, (427 C). Are there any suggestions on what temp to operate this at? I would think setting it at a higher temperature would not be the way to go in order to solder heavier masses since the temp regulation should increase the heat flow to compensate for a larger thermal mass. There might be something wrong with this as setting at a lower temperature, (400 F - 500 F range) does not lead to rapid melt but rather a stagnant or sluggish response.

Previously I've used the Weller WPC 60, (60 watt iron) and that worked just fine. I don't overheat components as my technique is good enough to ensure a short time on the joint.

Thanks,

silverfox.

[brentm]

I think it depends on what type of solder you are working with. And higher temperatures will let you heat up the area faster...

I normally set mine between 550 and 600 for straight 60/40 solder. Lower temperatures will require more time which transfers to the components. Heat sinks can help...

[martin manning]

Personal preference too. I like hot for minimal contact time and heat transferred into the parts. I use ~740 degrees F on a Weller WSD51, for 60-40 solder, and I use that for everything from fine-pitch PCB to large solder lugs such as on input jacks.

[AcornHouse]

I set mine to 370°C for 60/40.

[David Root]

I use 700 deg F with Cardas Quad Eutectic. Hemostats on diodes/SS rectifiers. Also Weller WSD 51.

[John_P_WI]

I use 700 F tips with the MetCal 5051 soldering / rework station. It is more about the contact with the pad or joint and condition of the tip to transfer the heat than anything. I use the same 2 1/2 mm or so chisel point for small through hole pcb work to soldering the ground wire on strat spring claws. Of course the MetCal 80 watt power supply and RF / microwave tips maintain the temperature very well, allowing a very quick "get in and out" method to be used with with the iron and have never felt limited by 700 F tips with good old Kester 44.

[SilverFox]

Hey really appreciate the reply's. Last night I used it extensively to start the rebuild and as I check, the temperature is set to about 310 C- Which was border line hot enough. I'll boost the temp just a bit. btw I'm using typical 60/40.

silverfox.

[roberto]

I set mine to 370°C for 60/40.

^this for me too