What
wattage of soldering iron should I have?
I would recommend at least a 60 watt iron. One with a flat tip is
especially useful for building batteries and soldering wires that are 12 to 14
gauge. Anytime you heat up electronics or a battery for to long of a time are
taking the risk of damaging it. Having a better wattage iron melts the solder
quicker.
What kind of solder should I use?
I recommend using a rosin core solder. Using an acid core solder will
destroy components. I use a 60/40 rosin core solder. This solder will melt at
about 371 degrees. If you need a solder the that will melt at a lower
temperature try a 63 / 37 solder. I use a .031 inch thick solder. It is good
for small stuff and building batteries.
What
is the best way to build a battery?
I recommend using sandpaper or a emery board to rough up the tops of the
battery. This will help the solder stick to the top of the battery. Remember
do not get the battery to hot while soldering them together. Heat kills them
and you can ruin them before you even use them.
Tin
How do I
know when my soldering iron is ready?
The solder should melt very easy and flow like a thick liquid, if it doesn't
then the iron isn't ready.
How do I
soldering capacitors to my motor?
First make sure that you motor requires them. May new motor have internal
capacitors built in. If you motor requires three capacitors make sure the can
is clean. Decide where they are going to mount on the can and use sandpaper to
rough up that area. Note some motors only require two capacitors. If this is
the case many motors such as the Reedy MVP come with a capacitor mounting post
called a solder tab. Here is an example of a three capacitors motor.
Solder a
0.1µF (50V) capacitor between each of the following:
- POSITIVE (+) motor tab &
NEGATIVE (-) motor tab.
- POSITIVE (+) motor tab &
GROUND tab
- NEGATIVE (-) motor tab &
GROUND tab
Things to keep in mind.
Clean and tin the soldering iron
tip often.
Always tin the parts of the wire
that are to be joined.
Whenever possible, twist the
wires together before soldering for a good mechanical connection.
Do not over tin the wires or
apply too much solder to the connection.
Always insulate your soldered
connections to prevent shorting.
Do not over-heat what you are
soldering
***Remember that solder does
contain Lead which should in no way be swallowed. So make sure you wash your
hands and don't intentionally breath in the fumes. |
