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Low Melt Soldering

Low Temp. Soldering

Presentation by Russell Jones

Why low melt? With the common use of pewter ( formly whitemetal) being used
for a lot of NZR model railway kits, it becomes the logical construction technique
for assembly. Not only does it create sturdy and secure joins, it also fillets gaps
and can be adjusted if necessary, and is faster than waiting for glue to dry.

The fear that most modelers seem to have about soldering, is that of suffering a
kit meltdown (puddle effect). Well, this information, shows that with the avaliable
tools and simple procedures, you to can enjoy simple and quick model construction
that will last and last.

Materials and Tools.

Temp. controlled iron (25 - 40 watt) Be aware most controlled units don't go low enough
12v Soldering iron controlled by your train controller
Low melt solder 70 degree
Flux - dilutered rust-kill acid (phosphoric acid) and applicator brush

Knife, files, sandpapers.
Jigs, right angle, clamping and holding devices
Pliers, tweezers, side cutters, drills etc

Summary of Main Points of Technique.

Create a clean, fresh surface to be joined, using knife, files or sandpaper.

Dry fit parts to ensure a good fit.

Apply flux to the joint with a small brush.

Bring melted solder to the joint, on the soldering iron.

Tack the joint first. Let it cool, and check the alignment.

Apply more solder and slide the iron along the joint as necessary. Listen to the sizzle.
If the sizzle stops, the flux has evapourated and direct full heat is applied to the work

Low temp. soldering will gap fill nicely, but don't over do it.

When soldering pewter to brass, sand brass surface then tin the brass.
Apply the pewter part to the brass, as per above technique

Wash your work due to the acid in leftover flux.

Sun, 23rd May 2010 @ 02:30