Posted on Leave a comment

TOP CONVENTIONAL MEASURING INSTRUMENTS FOR PROFESSIONALS

Measuring instruments are of a wide range and types for different measuring purposes. As a professional, you need to know which type is adequately implemented in your applications. Apart from the instrument type, you need to be aware of specific characteristics in each measuring instrument before buying from the market. Let’s look into conventional professional measuring instrument types and how to choose the perfect one for your measuring applications.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4R7GOkJEMb/?utm_medium=copy_link

TOP TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A ‘PERFECT’ ONE

When in an industrial environment, to assure a product is fabricated per your intended design criteria, or to measure the wear or damage extent of a product, you will acquire a professional measuring instrument that will suit your applications. Thus, you will need to consider the following factors listed to choose a perfect measuring tool.

  • Suitability & compatibility
  • Quality & Standard
  • Durability
  • Operation
  • Cost

Suitability & Compatibility

First, you need to identify what you are measuring. Decide the measuring criteria, whether it is linear, angular, thermal or pressure measurement, etc. After figuring out the measuring criteria you need to compare the suitability of the measuring instrument with the measuring item. Check whether you can measure the desired aspect of measuring through the instrument. As an example, you will need a probe to measure the depth of a product or need measuring jaws to measure the diameter of a product. Then check the units of measurement and how far you can measure from the particular measuring tool. You will find similar types of measuring instruments built with different scales and scale ranges for use in different applications. Likewise, review the measuring instrument’s suitability before you are going to buy it.

Quality and Standard

This is the main factor you should focus on buying any product. Do not deceive with price and capability of measuring tool if it is not conformed to industrial standard or desired quality of the design. It is your responsibility to choose the tool that matches your industrial perspective rather than going for a tool for any other industrial applications. Most of the measuring tools are used to measure metallic materials and instances where the effect of the environment is considerable level. In similar cases like that, you will need measurement tools that can withstand these circumstances. It is a wise decision to buy a quality and standardized measuring tool whenever you are buying it for professional applications.

Durability

Durability comes with a good quality of a product. When you buy a measuring tool check whether the tool is capable of using it for a considerable period. Otherwise, you will need to replace time to time and your money is in vain. Some measuring tools need to calibrate in a certain period and you will need to focus on these time frames of maintenance and calibration to keep the tool in a good shape to use in your applications.

Operation

You will wonder, how is the operation affect the measuring tool. It certainly does when you use tools for specific purposes. You need to be aware of instances where a measuring instrument needs to measure a specific factor a product that needs extensive gadgets in the measuring tool. As an example, you will need a caliper with specific jaws designed to measure a welding depth and angle of a product. In such cases do not go for a multi-task tool that can use the same operation. It won’t always give a better reading unless it is a high-quality standardized product. It is highly recommended to buy an instrument that can use only limited desired applications.

Cost

Of course, this is the first factor that anyone will focus on rather than the above-discussed factors. Do not always go for the cheap product as well as vice-versa. Research the range of tools that is available to your budget at first. Then deal with the above factors and choose the perfect one. Not only that do not deceive with the comfort and portability with respect to build quality and durability. As for the author’s recommendation, comfort and handling capability come second when compared to tool quality and durability. So, use your professional mind to choose the desired perfect product without affecting your wallet.

By taking the above into your checklist of buying a measuring tool, you can choose a perfect measuring tool that fits your industrial applications. As per the author’s recommendations following tool types can be used for professional applications. If you need a measuring instrument that suits the following criteria, give it a try.

TOP CONVENTIONAL MEASURING INSTRUMENTS

Here are some measuring tool types that can be used for general professional applications. The preferences of these tool types can be vary depending on different industrial standards.

CONE FEELER TAPER APERTURE GAUGE

A feeler gauge is a handheld tool often used to measure gap widths in engineering applications. A taper feeler gauge is a feeler gauge tapered and find in different shapes to provide ease in taking measurements. These tools themselves consist of a variety of small lengths of steel (known as blades) of different thicknesses which have size measurements marked along with each piece. The main advantage of the feeler tool over the other measuring tool is, it provides the user with a visual clue of how wide a gap is as it physically fills the gap with its metal blade.

The following tool is the best example of a feeler gauge with a cone steel round shape that will provide comfortably measuring the depth of products.

1-45mm Cone Feeler Taper Aperture Gauge Steel Round Hole Tapered Ruler

Product Review – This gauge is fabricated with carbon steel with a nickel finish on the measuring part. The product quality is better and includes a good grip to hold. It has a graduation scale of 0.1 mm and ranges between 1-45mm range. You can choose a gauge type depending on the measuring range and can be recommended to use measuring in industrial applications of internal hole diameter, depths.

DIGITAL VERNIER CALIPERS

Vernier calipers are the best measuring tools used to measure linear measurements including product length, inner and outer diameter with a precision up to 0.01mm. Currently, digital type is prevalent and it is quite easy and provides fewer errors when taking manual readings. The calipers are widely used in aviation industries as the measuring tool to measure structural parts after any maintenance and repair practices.

Vernier caliper is fabricated including some parts/jaws to ease in measuring some small-scale measurements. The upper jaws are used to measure the inner measurement of an object, while the lower jaws are used to measure the outer measurement. A depth rod is present in the later part to measure the depth of the product. These are mainly used for industrial purposes where the measurement of the curve, cylindrical bodies and, accurate measurement of metallic parts.

Here is the best example for a professional type of digital vernier caliper for your professional applications.

Digital 0-300mm 0.01mm Caliper Stainless Steel Electronic Vernier Caliper Metric/Inch Measuring Tool

Product Review – This digital caliper is made up of stainless-steel type and the beam and vernier units are heat-treated to provide a better metal finish. The digital screen is an LCD type and includes a separate part closed to affix the battery into it. The entire build quality is highly durable and the scales are clearly marked and the jaws are easily adjustable. This tool has a range of 300mm and includes a screwdriver to affix the battery and jaws. The caliper is well stored in a box and includes a user manual. Overall product quality is satisfactory and can be recommended for industrial application in aviation and other mechanical industries.

 

Some calipers are fabricated customized for different applications. The following type is used for measuring welding parts.

0-20mm Stainless Steel Digital Welding Seam Measuring Caliper Digital Weld Gauge Electronic Weld Inspection Ruler

Product Review – The above caliper types are used especially in welding applications. The jaws in calipers are designed to measure welding angles and the main jaw is to measure the welding depth of the metal joint. It has a range of 0 – 20mm and includes a digital reading screen providing ease in taking readings. Recommended for taking measurements in welding parts and joints in industrial applications.

PORTABLE HARDNESS TESTER

Hardness testers find in large-scale workshops to measure the metal and alloy hardness. They are categorized per the test methods they have been using. Several factors are considered when choosing an industrial type of hardness tester. They are test load, hardness range, accuracy level, and adaptability of the device.

Apart from the main hardness tester types, the handheld types are often used in industrial applications too. They are equipped to operate by hand providing pressure to measure the hardness. It includes a variety of anvils that permits testing a great variance of shapes. It is quite useful in sheet metal applications where hardness testing is needed.

The following tool-type represents a perfect portable handheld hardness tester which is prominently used in many industrial measuring applications.

Handheld Webster Hardness Tester Aluminum Alloy Durometer Soft Metal Hardness Tester Pipe Sheet Sclerometer

Product Review – The WEBSTER Hardness Testers are portable instruments that can perform on-site hardness testing on aluminum alloys, brass, copper, and soft steel. A quick and easy test, the hardness value can be read out directly from the indicator with a simple clamp. Suitable for testing aluminum alloy profiles, tubings, and sheet materials. Especially suitable for fast, non-destructive quality inspection on the production site. The above type can be used to measure the hardness of metals up to 13mm thickness. Include a measuring dial on the gauge that can easily read the measurement readings.

ANEMOMETERS  

Anemometers are widely used for measuring wind speed and temperature in industrial air conditioning and controlling products. They are commonly used in electric power, steel, petrochemical, and other industries. The measuring tools that are commonly found in the market are used for general purpose measurements. Here are some widely used anemometers found in the market for general and industrial usage.

GM8903 Anemometer Wind Speed Meter Temperature Measure USB Interface

The above type anemometer can be used in measuring airspeed related to electric power, petrochemical, and other related industries. This type is a split type digital airflow anemometer and includes a handle and a probe that can insert into a specific location where the airspeed needs to be measured. Includes a USB interface and digital screen showing both temperature and airspeed.

FINAL TALK

As per the above discussion, you have got a brief idea about a few conventional types of measuring instruments that are available in the market for professional applications. Keep in mind to follow the above-discussed criteria for choosing a perfect tool for your applications. Not only that it assures you of buying a better product but also save your budget too.

 

*****************

 

REFERENCES

  1. https://www.qualitydigest.com/inside/metrology-news/choose-right-measuring-tool-051811.html
  2. https://tengtoolsusa.com/blogs/news/what-are-feeler-gauges-used-for
  3. https://blog.kett.com/bid/288481/10-Things-QA-Should-Know-About-Measurement-Instruments-Before-Buying
  4. https://guide.directindustry.com/choosing-the-right-hardness-tester/
  5. https://metsuco.com/considerations-for-selecting-a-hardness-tester/

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on Leave a comment

EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD GET TO KNOW ABOUT SCREWDRIVERS

Whenever you need to affix any object, part, or equipment, the first-hand tool you would keep by your side is a screwdriver. Screwdrivers of different types are easily found in any hardware shop and the online market. But are you having enough knowledge of choosing a perfect one for your tasks? If not, let’s have a discussion on everything you should get to know about screwdrivers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZP1xB5rZs1/?utm_medium=copy_link

SCREWDRIVER APPLICATIONS

Screwdrivers are widely used in many industries as an affixing hand tool for fastener installation and removal. There are at least dozens of distinctive screwdriver types but generally, few around 4-5 types are conventional. From general household applications to industrial usage, the screwdriver applications can be compiled and categorized as follows.

  • Electrical and Electronic industry applications – Computers, mobile phones and electrical parts and accessory installation removal, avionics related component fastener installation removal, etc.
  • Mechanical product installation and removal – all the mechanical components affixed with different types of fasteners.
  • Woodworking and Carpentry applications

In the market, you can find different types of screwdrivers that are manufactured for different applications. For mechanical usages like automobile and aviation industries, there are toolboxes to be purchased. The toolbox includes special types of screwdrivers along with other special tools for specific tasks. Screwdriver handle designs are prevalent nowadays with the ability to attach different screwdriver type bits that make them easier to use. Not only that there are power screwdrivers in the market that can operate using electric power.

JAKEMY JM-6114 70 in 1 Ratchet Screwdriverr Hand Tools Phone Electrical Maintenance

Product review – Portable hardware tools pack which includes 1 x JAKEMY JM-6114 70 in 1 Ratchet Screwdriver Hand Tools. This is a Compact design with lightweight and high hardness. Interchangeable precise manual toolset. Consist of a no-slip handle and is made up of PP & TRP &CR-V steel.

 

20pcs/Set Countersink Drill Bit HSS Screwdriver Tools Drill Driver Kit Flip Drive Portable LZ

Product review – Package includes 1 x Drill Driver, 8 x Bits (2 each:PH0,PH1,PH2,PH3), 8 x Flathead Bits (2 each:1/8″ 3.2mm, 5/32″ 4mm,3/16″ 4.8mm,1/4″ 6.3mm), 2 x Countersink Bits(3/32″ 2.4mm, 1/8″ 3.2mm), 1 x Allen Wrench and 1 x Case. Well packed for convenient use and storage. Made up of alloy steel. Hard and durable. This easily switches between bits in seconds.

 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF SCREWDRIVERS

As there are dozens of screwdrivers in the market, it is better to know what the common types are. Basically, the type of screwdrivers varies with the fastener head type which is going to tighten or loosen. Identify the following conventional screwdrivers that are used in almost every task related to driving screws.

Phillips Screwdriver/Cross screwdriver

Do you know why this screwdriver got this name? Because it’s designed to screws with Philips heads/cross-shaped recess. Its unique X design grips the screw firmly in the center which copes with higher torsion. This is self-centering. This has five different sizes ranging from zero to four. Be wise to select the correct size, if not it will strip and make it difficult to remove.

Torx or Star Screwdriver

Its design with a crew head with a six-point star-shaped intrusion provides more torque and a secure grip on the fastener head. This can be commonly used in mechanical productions where more torque can be applied.

Torque Screwdrivers

Don’t get confused with Torx. This has a torque-limiting clutch that allows a limit on how much force is applied beyond a certain threshold value. So that inversely tight enough torque can be applied without falling out.

Insulated Screwdrivers

This is ideal when you need to deal with electrical work. These are constructed from non-conductive materials. This can provide you the safety when working in a hazardous environment.

Flathead Screwdriver

The most common type of hand tool. Multi-purpose and can be typically used for a range of applications. This can be used to tighten or loosen screws that have a straight linear notch in their heads.

Tri-Wing Screwdriver

This is mostly used for smaller screws and components. This was originally designed for aerospace engineering. But now commonly used for other general purposes too. For example: Opening mobile phones, computers.

Pozidriv Screwdriver 

This is a modified version of the Phillips screwdriver. This has a blunt tip and small ribs among the blade between the main edges which is designed to avoid Cam-out. Also, it provides greater surface contact. This can be differentiated from the Phillips screwdriver from the feature of four notches marked into the head of the Pozidriv screw.

Hex Screwdriver

The unique feature of this is the hexagonal tip which can be used to loosen tighten hex nuts, bolts and screws. Hex screwdrivers are also available in extensive range of both standard and metric sizes.

Square Screwdriver

This is designed for use in furniture manufacturing operations and for other tough materials too. This fits with a square-shaped recess. This has the capability of reducing the cam out issue in slotted screws. Fasten action can be gained. Known as Robertson tip. Five different types of square screwdrivers are available.

Precision Screwdrivers

These screwdrivers can be used for extremely small screw-used devices. For example, mobile phones, watches.

Electric Screwdrivers and Impact Drivers

Electric Screwdrivers are compact power tools that can be used to assemble furniture or screw softwood or other similar materials.  Impact drivers can exert a sudden force that can be used to drive into or remove harder, denser materials.

Apart from general types mentioned above, following types of screwdrivers are also available in some industrial applications.

Triangle Screwdriver

This type is often used with electronics, toys, and appliances. Head is beneficial as it makes it more secure and tamper-proof.  It’s very difficult to remove without a TA screwdriver. Hence can be used for security purposes.

Magnetic Screwdrivers

Screws attracted by the magnetic force. used in the electronic field. The unique feature is, this reduces the risk of accidentally dropping off screws.

Ratchet Screwdrivers

This applies turning force in only one direction. The opposite side is moving freely. Easy to drive because no need to move the bit in and out of the screw head at the end of each turn. Therefore, fast action can be gained.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE ‘PERFECT’ ONE

Why do we choose a perfect screwdriver for affixing/removing fasteners? Let’s clarify it first. If you do not buy or use a perfect driver, it may lead to damage to the screw type which ultimately affects the workmanship.  Not only that sometimes you need a special type of driver to affix or remove the screw from a product. It is a must to decide the perfect screwdriver bit for your screw head. By choosing the right match bit size, you will prevent damaged bits, stripped screws, and spoiled work surfaces. At first, you will need to search online for go to store and ask for the necessary info related to screw gauge corresponding to drive point sizes.

The screw may be in a position in which you need to lengthy screwdriver to affix or remove. For example, long drivers are often used in engine compartments on automobiles. Short drivers come in handy when you need to affix or remove a tight screw. When you need a driver to use it in an open, easily reach screwdriver you need a driver with a moderate length, only use very short or very long drivers if the job cannot be performed otherwise.

 

PENGGONG 615 4PCS Telescopic Screwdrivers Set Dual Purposed Nut Driver Repair Tools

Product review – This is a five pieces screwdriver set made up of high-quality Chrome-vanadium steel. This has the features of high hardness, high-pressure resistance, corrosion resistance, long lifetime, compact and elegant. Head with a multi-function screw head and this can be used in the automotive industry, household maintenance, manufacturing industry.

 

WORKPRO 139pcs Home Tools Household Tool Set Screwdrivers Set Pliers Sockets Spanner Wrench

Product review –There may be instances where you need a power tool for affixing/removing screws. There, you will need an electrically powered driver to fix it. In such a situation the above-discussed factors need to follow to choose the correct driver bit unless you will end up damaging the entire assembly or a product.

 

HILDA DC 16.8V/21V Cordless Drill Electric Drill Wireless Drill Electric Screwdriver Lithium Battery Power Tool

Product review –This has a soft-grip handle that makes work easier and rubber handle accents to reduce vibration. An added advantage of this is,  it illuminates the workspace when used in a dark environment. This consists of a rechargeable-Lithium battery.

There are some Standards that you will get tips on choosing the best driver for your application. For example, ISO 2380-1:2004 will provide necessary technical specifications and test conditions for the screwdrivers and, in the case of hand-operated screwdrivers, specifies the test torque which the blade-to-handle connection shall withstand. Read and get familiar with other standards like ASME B107.600-2016 & NASM85643 if you are looking to buy a screwdriver set for professional use.

Another factor in choosing a perfect screwdriver type is the built quality of the driver. The driver needs to be hard enough to apply force on the screw to affix or remove it. Along with hardness, it will need a certain degree of toughness in it. Try to find a driver with good wear & corrosion resistance which will provide a better shelf life. General materials that are good for manufacturing screwdrivers are Chromium-molybdenum steel (Cr-Mo), chrome vanadium steel (Cr-V), Carbon Steel (CS), S2 tool steel, The above material will perfectly match a multi-function screwdriver that will need the above-mentioned quality. The screwdriver grip is also a good factor to be concerned about.   An insulated fine grip will provide you with a better handling experience and will prevent getting in touch with electricity when affixing /removing screws in areas of avionics and electrical applications.

 

Multi-purpose Insulation Screwdrivers Repairing Tools Kit Ergonomic Handle

Product review – Its ergonomic handle design facilitates easy work and provided an added advantage of prevention from occupational illnesses because pliers in it require less force and reduce pressure on wrists. Pliers in it play a major role in ensuring occupational safety. Tool tray also has been designed to make work easier as it always has the right tool at hand when necessary.  This is featured with a large, stable, strong, and secure lid brake. Very compliant to use as well as with extra safety for the user.

 

115-In-1 Screwdriver Bits Set Magnetic Screwdriver Bit Torx Multi Mobile Phone Repair Tools Kit Electronic Device Hand Tool

 

Product review – This consists of 1 Pc handle, 1 Pc flexible Extension Shaft, 1 Pc extension Bar, 1 Pc Tweezers ,3 Pcs Plastic Pry Tools, 1 Pc SIM Card Remover, 1 Pc Magnetizer / Demagnetizer1 Pc Suction Cup, 6 Pcs Opening Picks, 1 Pc Bit Holder for Power Screwdriver, 98 Pcs Screwdriver Bits. This can be widely used in the disassembly and assembly of mobile phones, tablets, notebooks, watches, electronic cigarettes, drones, game consoles, cameras, glasses, and desktop computers. This is with an extension cable of the screw head which helps to reach a position that cannot be targeted by ordinary tools. This feature makes it convenient to use.

FINAL TALK

After going through this article, now you should have a proper knowledge of choosing the perfect screwdriver for your work.  You know that, if you don’t use the correct screw type then it may end up with damage to your screwdriver as well as the for the object/screw.  Not only that sometimes it can cause harm to you also. In order to avoid this type of unnecessary scenarios it is always best to use the perfect screwdriver for the relevant work. As mentioned in the above product reviews, now it is easier for you to choose it. Because there all the unique features of each screwdriver have been distinguished. You don’t need to roam around. Just select what you need by a single click.

 

*****************

 


REFERENCES

  1. https://www.grainger.com/know-how/equipment-information/kh-screwdriver-types-uses
  2. https://uk.rs-online.com/web/generalDisplay.html?id=ideas-and-advice/screwdrivers-guide
  3. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/types-of-screwdrivers/
  4. https://www.primermagazine.com/2012/learn/screwdriver
  5. https://www.toolstop.co.uk/blog/buying-guide/how-to-choose-the-best-screwdriver
  6. https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/how-do-i-choose-the-correct-screwdriver-size.htm

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on Leave a comment

CONVENTIONAL TOOLS FOR GENERAL SOLDERING APPLICATIONS

Are you often use soldering for bonding electrical connections, plumbing, and metalworks…? Do you aware of specific tools apart from the soldering iron that is widely used in soldering applications, or are you a beginner for soldering. Well, let’s discuss different soldering applications and conventional tools that make your soldering process much easier and smoother than before.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CP2S1-Dr9s4/?utm_medium=copy_link

BRIEF ON THE SOLDERING PROCESS & APPLICATIONS

Metals may be joined by mechanical means (bolting, riveting, etc.) or by welding brazing, soldering, or adhesive bonding. Out of these, Soldering is a process of joining metals by flowing a low melting point alloy termed ‘solder’, between the surfaces that are to be joined.  It is essentially an alloying process in which certain elements in the solder combine with the metals of the joint, and this is only possible if clean metal and clean molten solder are brought into effective contact.

The basic equipment required for normal soldering operations is a ‘Soldering iron’ of a suitable type and a source of heat (these may be combined, as in the electric soldering iron), solder of the correct composition for the job in hand, and a suitable flux-more elaborate equipment is needed for such special applications of the process as sweating and dip soldering, but these types of soldering are not usually encountered in the general workshop. Let’s discuss briefly soldering types widely used.

Following are the general types of soldering applied on different temperature levels.

  • Soft Soldering– General type of soldering used for joining wires and small components. The joining parts of soft soldering are not exposed to higher temperatures (normally ranging between 90-450 degrees) and are not subjected to higher loads and forces. The solder type used in this process has a melting point ranging between 150-350 degrees and is commonly lead or tin. Zinc chloride is the common soldering flux used in soft soldering.
  • Hard Soldering– This type uses a solder that is higher temperature and stronger than those used in soft soldering. This type is also known as silver soldering where silver mixed with tin is utilized as a solder in the process. Brass is also used as a solder for this type and to strengthen the connection a blowtorch is implemented. Normally in this type, solders have a temperature range of 600 – 900 degrees and fluxes are in paste form.
  • Brazing – This type uses metals with a melting point than the above-said soldering types. The process is much similar to hard soldering where the metal being bonded is heated rather than being melted. When both joining metals are heated at a higher temperature the melted solder is placed in between two joining metals.

As solder is used in joining the metals or components in a circuit or metalwork, flux is used to prepare the joining surface to perform the soldering perfectly. It removes any contamination in the metal surface and helps in wetting the molten solder between metals and protects the joints from re-oxidation during soldering.

When performing any of the soldering types described earlier, a proper solder needs to be used. There are some standards to choose the perfect solder type for soldering applications. Some of them are ASTM B579, ASTM B907, ASTM B828 by ASTM international. It is a good practice to adhere to each mentioned standard before you are in to any of the engineering processes.

Proper safety practices need to implement when carrying out a soldering process. The correct type of PPE must be worn to prevent hazards caused by heat. Not only that fumes are released when metals are being heated during the soldering process. So appropriate respirators and goggles, gloves need to use. You can use the following recommended PPE when working on brazing soldering tasks.

https://digitalzakka.com/product/full-face-respirator-gas-mask-goggles-anti-dust-cover-safety-chemical-filter/

Product review – The above respirator is a full-face mask type with a chemical filter and anti-dust cover.  It provides 2 in 1 protection for both eyes and covers the nose as well. It can prevent Can various organic gases, such as formaldehyde, gasoline, ether, suitable for spray paint, oil, machinery, polishing, dust, etc. Can be recommended for use in brazing soldering tasks as a Safety PPE.

Now we have a better understanding of soldering and the types of components used. Let’s discuss the main topic, the conventional tools that are implemented for soldering applications.

CONVENTIONAL SOLDERING TOOLS

The conventional tool types mentioned below are the basic tools that will make your soldering task a perfect one.

  • Soldering Iron
  • Soldering Station (Generally includes conventional Soldering stand, Control unit, and a Sponge)
  • Soldering Iron tips
  • Soldering Hand tools – Scrapers, Tweezers, Holders, Clamps

SOLDERING IRON

Soldering iron is the most essential tool used in the soldering process. A soldering iron consists essentially of a copper “bit” secured to a holder, to which is fitted a heat-resistant handle.  The bit varies in weight, according to the nature of the work for which the iron is intended. Normally for the general workshop, bits of 4 ounces are used and adequate for most purposes, but very small bits may be needed for ultra-light soldering in very confined positions.  The bit is the heat reservoir of the tool, and it must be large enough to heat the job adequately.  If you are buying a soldering iron make sure to check the wattage other than the thickness of the tip.  If the iron has a higher wattage, it will heat up quickly and it helps the tip to maintain the higher temperature throughout the process.

The following types of solder iron are available in the market that is customized according to the power, capability, and type of soldering.

TRADITIONAL SOLDERING IRONS

Traditional soldering irons are easily available in the market and are used in general soldering activities such as soldering electronic components and household usage. Make sure to look for the wattage when buying a traditional one. Normally for soldering electronic components, ideal power would be 25-40W, 40-60W for household use, and industrial usage such as soldering thick wires, sheet metals 100w is needed.

220V 30/40/50W Electric Temperature Tool Welding Solder Iron Tool 500℃

Product review – This product is ideal for general household applications, wood soldering jobs, and electronic component soldering applications. It is also available in 30,40,50W power variations and is easy to operate. Handle design is good for general usage and worth buying for general applications.

Normally soldering iron comes with a wire directly connected to a plug, but nowadays in the market, you can find a soldering iron with a USB output which makes it easier to plug into power sources like power banks & other portable power devices. The mobility and easy operation are the advantages of these types.

SI-169U 3D Printing Repair Set USB Soldering Iron Quickly Heats Up in 15S, Low Power Consumption Electric Iron

Product review – The above soldering iron is powered via an 8W USB port.  It can heat up to 500 degrees and it is mentioned that it will heat within 15s which is a good feature for quick soldering applications. Include a soldering iron stand, protective case to cover the tips and tips that can be replicable. These types of soldering irons can be recommended for electrical soldering applications as well as general household applications.

Apart from the above traditional soldering irons, Gas heated soldering irons are widely used in heavy-duty soldering applications. These soldering irons can be used as regular heat guns. The following soldering type is a perfect example of the gas-heated soldering iron. It includes a complete kit of a hot knife, one soldering tip, cleaning sponge, resin core solder, engraving tip, and other essential tools for soldering applications. All these tools are stored in a portable box that can be easily carried. Ideal for Jewelry, Eyewear plastic cutting maintenance industry.

HS-1115K 10 in 1 Welding Kit Blow Torch Professional Butane Gas Solder Iron Soldering Tools

Apart from traditional soldering irons, some types can adjust the temperature between 250 – 450 degrees. Generally, includes 60W power and ranges from low-end models to quite expensive types for professional usage.

SOLDERING STATION

Soldering stations are used to provide more flexibility and control of the soldering process. It includes a soldering iron stand and temperature control unit which can adjust the temperature properly during various soldering tasks. It is good to have a soldering station if you are frequently working on soldering applications. Normally stations include a sponge to wipe soldering tips. For heavy-duty soldering applications soldering stations comes with hot air guns with a desoldering feature.

2 In1 Digital Hot Air Rework Soldering Station Soldering Iron Solder Rework Station SMD Desoldering

Product review – The above product is a perfect example of a heavy-duty soldering station. It includes a soldering rework feature and is very useful for desoldering applications. It also comes with a general iron stand, sponge, a control unit for temperature control, and also a hot air heater that works as a soldering gun. It has 700W power and has a good temperature range up to 500 degrees. Ideal for professional soldering applications.

SOLDERING IRON TIPS

Most soldering irons come with different types of tips with shapes and sizes. Each tip will provide different applications. Generally, iron tips are divided into two types, the Conical tip, and the Chisel tip. Conical type tips are general tip types that have a pointed cone-like shape. The soldering can be easily carried out from any angle. Other than Conical tips, Chisel tips have a larger surface area which is more likely to transfer heat from the tip to the soldering component. Chisel types are widely used for soldering thick wires.

220V 60W Adjustable Temperature Electric Soldering Iron Kit+5pcs Tips Portable Welding Repair Tool

Product review – The above product includes a soldering iron kit with 6 pcs of iron tips that are widely used in soldering tasks. The soldering iron is an adjustable temperature type one with 60 wattages. It also includes hand tools that will provide help in soldering tasks. Recommended for General Electric soldering tasks.

 

SOLDERING HAND TOOLS

These tools come in handy where the soldering area needs a quick fix and to adjust the soldering pattern. Normally soldering hand tools comes with a soldering kit and include scrapers, hooks, holders, clamps, and tweezers per soldering iron capability and its application.

LAOA 3 in 1 Stainless Steel Tweezers Point and Curved Shape Repair Tools Forceps Precision Soldering Tweezers Set

Product review – The above product is a stainless-steel tweezer set that is useful in handling small components and details the soldering process. This tool is ideal for electric soldering fields as small detailed electric parts can be easily placed when soldering.

FINAL TALK

Soldering is a mechanical joining process that needs proper workmanship to achieve perfect joining. Keeping the perfect tool setup near your soldering application will always provide you with comfort and support in achieving excellent workmanship. The tool type you chose always depends on the specific soldering tasks and you must have proper knowledge of each tool type before implementing it. In this discussion, you have familiarized general soldering types and the conventional tools for each type of soldering process.  The recommended tools in this discussion are for general soldering applications. Thus, it is always a good practice to adhere to industrial standards and requirements when buying a perfect tool for your industrial soldering applications.

REFERENCES

  1. https://www.electronicshub.org/types-of-soldering/
  2. https://www.protoexpress.com/blog/ipc-j-std-001-standard-soldering-requirements/
  3. https://www.globalspec.com/learnmore/manufacturing_process_equipment/welding_equipment_supplies/solder
  4. https://www.tempoautomation.com/blog/understanding-soldering-part-2-the-difference-between-flux-and-solder/#:~:text=What%20is%20Flux%20and%20What,board%20through%20the%20soldering%20process.
  5. https://toolboom.com/en/articles-and-video/the-15-best-tools-and-equipment-for-soldering/
  6. https://resources.pcb.cadence.com/blog/what-are-the-different-types-of-solder-2#:~:text=In%20summary%2C%20there%20are%20three,lead%2Dfree%2C%20and%20flux.
  7. https://www.build-electronic-circuits.com/soldering-tools/
  8. https://www.theengineerspost.com/soldering-types-tools/
  9. https://www.electronicshub.org/soldering-iron-tip/
  10. https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/what-is-soldering#:~:text=Soldering%20is%20widely%20used%20in,see%20it%20employed%20in%20jewellery.