Posted on April 3, 2022 by mengling chen — Leave a comment

5 HIGH-TECH TOOLS FOR ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS

As a result of the technological revolution over the years, many industries tend to implement tools with high technology embedded in them. It has proven over time the effectiveness of using them for various professional applications. Their simplicity, cost and time effectiveness, and multi-tasking abilities replace the conventional tools to aside. Let’s discuss more on 5 high-tech tools used by professional technicians and how are their impact on your industrial applications.

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BRIEF INTRODUCTION

High tech tools are often implemented in many industrial applications like Construction, Automobile, aviation, etc. When compare with Engineering applications, high-tech tools provide a lot of benefits to the operator even though they are costlier than conventional tools.

The pros of using high tech tools are,

High-quality output – limit the defect percentage and human errors,
Efficient and productive – increase productivity and reduce Downtime,
simplicity and remote – easy handling and portability,

Apart from that these tools are efficient in large-scale applications that save time and increase the output. The major drawbacks are high cost, consuming a considerable amount of power, and maintenance cost which is only applicable for some tools.

Various unique high-tech gadgets make easier your Engineering applications. Let’s discuss the top 5 of them briefly.

HIGH TECH TOOLS

The following types of high-tech tools are commonly used in welding, sheet metal, and soldering applications.

WELDER (WELDING MACHINE)

Welding machines (Welder) are the primary tool type that is used in all arc welding processes. It outputs adequate power (either AC or DC) to the welding electrode thus providing the best welding arc characteristics with maximum efficiency. It is necessary to choose the best welder for your welding applications unless the quality welded part cannot be obtained.

The welder types are found in either DC or AC power output. Normally AC power is used for higher temperature ranges, position welding, and mainly aluminum welding. The welding quality of AC types is not optimal as the delivery of heat varies with current variations. These AC machines are widely used as it is cost-effective and do better welding at positions or points. On the other hand, DC machines give you a smooth welding experience as they give a constant current allowing you to have homogeneous chords with high welding stability. Not only that DC machines provide you the adaptability in different welding processes such as TIG or Argon. When buying a welding machine, it is always good to go with DC comparing the above discussion.

The output of welding machines normally ranges from 5-1500 ampere and volts 10-40. Based on power output type, polarity, and function the welding machines are classified into different types such as Welding Transformer (AC type), Welding thyristor, Welding rectifier, Converter, Welding analog power supply, etc. Apart from analog controls nowadays you can find digitally-driven machines that will ease switching into parameters like current, voltage, arc length, type of current, and pulse current output.

When choosing a welder, you should consider these factors. At first, you should decide what processes you are capable of. That means if you are a beginner, you should probably go for the MIG welder type and if you are a professional welder your best choice would be the high-tech TIG welder type. TIG welding machines are quite used in the aviation and automobile industry where thin metal welding is prevalent. As discussed above DC power welders are the ones you should consider for a long-time business and always used the quality products which are recommended by your industry requirements.

Normally in the aviation Industry welding is considered one of three repair procedures where the metal can be joined without fasteners. The welding machines need to be selected to satisfy the requirements for the type of welding being undertaken. Apart from that, the welder who has been trained in welding processes for each metal needs to use the welding equipment manufacturers’ information to decide the equipment good to go for the welding.

Here are the welding machines types which are often available in the online market that can be recommended based on the above for professional welding applications.

1. INVERTER TYPE ARC ELECTRIC WELDING MACHINE

MIG-200AL 6 in 1 220V Inverter Arc Electric Welding Machine MIG/MMA/LIFT TIG/PULSE AlMg/PULSE AlSi/DOUBLE PULSE Welder for Welding Electric Working LCD Display

Product review – The above inverter type welding machine is capable of performing General arc welding types. It has welding accessories and a digital screen panel to customize the process. For further detail refer to the product description.

2. INVERTER TYPE ARC ELECTRIC WELDING MACHINE (MINI)

220V ZX7-200 miniGB 200A Mini Electric Welding Machine IGBT DC Inverter ARC MMA Stick Welder

Product review – The above tool is a DC inverter ARC MMA stick welder mini type that can be recommended for general welding applications. The mini-inverter ranges from 20-200 Ampere DC and includes a strap, wrench, and a holder in the pack. For further detail refer to the product description.

3. SPOT WELDER (MINI)

F90ES 3500A Dent Puller Multifunctional Spot Welder Welding Machine Repair Kit Additive Kit

Product review – The above tool is a multi-functional welder mini type that can be recommended for general welding applications including dent pulling and other welding repairs etc. As per the manufacturer, it has low power consumption and the package includes a pull hammer, carbon rods, and an additive kit with a box. For further detail refer to the product description.

CNC PLASMA CUTTER

A plasma cutter is a high-tech cutting tool that is used to cut metals by using an ionized jet of gas. They are often used in light and heavy industries wherever quick, accurate, and precise cuts of flat, pliable metal are needed. Normal inside of a cutter high voltage electrode rapidly heats a compound gas mixture to a higher temperature when starting. The gas mixture includes shielding gas which is used as a propellant and redirects the jet to the desired point in the metal. Plasma can be safely used with most non-ferrous metals and commonly Steel, Aluminum, Copper, and Brass. Plasma cutters can be found attached to portable kits, fixed stations, and robotic arms and programmed (CNC) to the desired pattern of cutting. There are two types handheld and Mechanized plasma. The key difference is that mechanized plasma machines use a specific torch setup attached to a machine that is controlled automatically by CNC. For industrial high-end use most probably, a mechanized machine is preferable.

Pros of this product over-handled plasma tools are versatility, Fast and precise cut, efficiency and safety ensured due to automation. Cons would be the limitation of cutting metal thickness, noisy and generates excess fumes, maintenance costs. It is recommended to use these machines in a ventilated area and must wear PPEs to avoid accidents.

The following product is a hand-cutting plasma machine that can be used in sheet metal cutting especially for welding purposes.

4. PLASMA CUTTING MACHINE

https://digitalzakka.com/product/andeli-cut-120-three-phase-cut-steel-metal-pipe-380v-air-portable-cnc-plasma-cutter-plasma-cutting-machine/

Product review – The plasma cutter above shown is capable of cutting 0 -45 mm thickness metals with high speed. The cutting gun equipped with the machine can be also used with numerical control for better cutting. It includes an air pressure regulator to be regulated at specific thickness ranges and the machine is designed with high quality while providing safety functions like circuit breakers in case of emergency. This high-tech gadget is Ideal for small-scale metal cutting workshops. For further detail refer to the product description.

SOLDERING STATIONS

High-tech soldering stations are widely used in professional soldering applications mainly for temperature control rather than using soldering iron only for soldering tasks. The soldering iron cannot control the temperature as it only heats up to a specific temperature. Through temperature control by a soldering station following advantages can be obtained.

To keep solder tip temperature as low as possible to avoid oxidizing before using it for the soldering task.
Controlling temperature prevents damage to the components you are soldering. Some electronic components are very heat sensitive. Holding the tip against the lead for long will transfer heat into the semiconductor and cause it to damage.
Quick tip heating – With a temperature-controlled tip, you can apply a lot of currents, heating the tip to temperature quickly. Once at temperature, the current is reduced to prevent the tip from overheating which will ruin the tip very quickly.
Temperature recovery – When you touch a tip to the metal you want to heat, this removes heat from the tip. The controller will sense this and apply more current to bring the tip back up to the desired temperature.
A temperature-controlled tip allows you to leave the tip hot between uses. With a simple uncontrolled iron, the tip will burn up if you leave it for long.

When considering the above you will probably buy a soldering station for your professional applications unless it causes more disadvantages including higher power consumption due to the inability of temperature control.

A high-tech soldering station provides the above-mentioned advantages with ease and a comfortable manner. Apart from that, you will get a digital screen with safe modes, an additional hot air gun for rework, shrink tube applications, and for cleaning the work area after soldering.

As stated earlier, you are the one to choose the perfect soldering station that will suit your capability. You need to consider the wattage, quality, and safety features after choosing the desired unit. Higher wattage means higher power to work for long times. The build quality is also essential for any periodic checks for the maintenance in the manuals. The soldering stations are usually two types ESD safe & non-ESD safe which represent the measurement of electronic discharge when an object with different potential gets close. It is good to have ESD-safe stations as it avoids the forming of static charge on iron and station when soldering applies.

Properly maintained stations can be last for years without replacement. Check whether the high-tech soldering irons come with accessories sets including soldering tips, sets of tweezers, a de-soldering pump, a cleaning sponge, etc. Normally stations come with the above sets but keep in mind to buy the whole pack otherwise you will need to waste money buying individual items separately.

Following high-tech soldering station can be recommended for industrial soldering applications. It covers all the aspects discussed above including wattage, quality, and design standards.

5. SOLDERING STATION

ATTEN MS-900 500W 4 in1 Rework Station Electric Iron Tweezers Hot Air Guns Soldering Station Maintenance System

Product review – The soldering stations include 3 tool channels that can use independently without any interference. Include hot air guns for both rework and de-soldering applications. Equipped with the general tool kits and a maximum power of 900W. For further detail refer to the product description.

FINAL TALK

High-tech tools indeed provide more advantages rather than conventional tools used in engineering applications. It is a wise decision to move to a high-tech tool if you are looking for long-term use and have a passion for performing engineering tasks accurate and precise manner. There are over dozens of high-tech tools for each engineering application and always use to buy a tool that is recommended by tour industrial standards or experienced professionals.

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REFERENCES

Posted on March 15, 2022 by mengling chen — 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.

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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.