A gas soldering iron is a device used for soldering. That is, for joining metals with a binder whose melting point is lower than that of the elements being joined. One of the most popular types of soldering irons are gas soldering irons. Although in many ways they are more convenient to use than others, they are not suitable for all types of work.
There are many types of soldering irons on the market, but this one is the best in many ways.
Gas soldering iron and safety precautions during operation
There is an opinion that gas tools are explosive. This statement can be refuted provided that safety precautions are followed during work. One of the requirements: the burner flame must not be directed towards flammable materials and objects that can quickly ignite. If there is a gas leak, you must thoroughly ventilate the room where the work was carried out.
Carefully studying the instructions that come with the device will help you work safely with gas equipment and extend the service life of the soldering iron. It must indicate the type of gas that this device uses (butane or propane). In many cases, soldering irons are refilled using regular refill cans for household lighters.
A gas soldering iron is a universal compact device used to create permanent connections of various parts. The device is used in places where it is not possible to connect to the electrical network. Radio amateurs also resort to his help; we solder radio elements from boards. When carrying out plumbing and paint work, a gas apparatus is a reliable assistant. The device heats pipes and threaded connections, solders large structural elements using refractory solders, and softens paint coatings that need to be replaced.
FAQ
Are gas soldering irons explosive? Gas soldering irons are not explosive devices, but safety precautions must be observed when working with them. Do not point the burner flame at flammable objects. If there is a gas leak from the device, the room must be well ventilated.
What gas can be used to refill a gas soldering iron? Before refilling a gas soldering iron, you must study the manufacturer’s operating instructions, which indicate the gas used to operate the device (propane or butane). In most cases, cylinders for refilling conventional lighters are suitable for this purpose.
Operating principle
The design of the main models of gas soldering irons consists of the following elements:
- fuel tank;
- gas burner with a ceramic grate built into the body;
- working nozzle.
The working process begins by mixing the gas with surrounding oxygen. The launch is made from a built-in piezoelectric element or an external combustion source by supplying a flame. Using the control button, you can change the flame intensity by adjusting the operating temperature. A ceramic grid with a thin layer of platinum is a catalyst that ensures uniform combustion and heating of the tip.
The main advantage of gas appliances is that the device can operate autonomously without any additional batteries. The devices allow you to solder parts of different sizes in any conditions. Such devices are used in places where access is difficult. When working with electric soldering irons, the working area is limited by the length of the cable and depends on the availability of the electrical network.
Many models have a lock to protect the device from spontaneous activation. Heating time - up to 450-2000°C - from 15 to 30 seconds. The devices can operate in several modes:
- Hot tip soldering using connecting material.
- Burner mode (heat treatment of the surfaces of parts using a flame).
- Air soldering, carried out by a narrowly directed gas flow.
The huge range of available gas soldering irons sometimes makes it difficult to select the right tool. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account what goals and objectives will be set for the device. When choosing the right device for soldering or cutting, you need to focus on some parameters:
- Maximum temperature. The scope of application of the device depends on the temperature range. For domestic purposes, any model capable of heating up to 1000-1500°C is suitable. Professional equipment heats up to 2000°C.
- The presence of a flame level regulator allows you to select the desired temperature and combustion intensity.
- Flame type. Soldering irons are divided into devices having a vortex flame flow, a pencil flame, and a multi-purpose flame. The first type is used when there is a need for strong surface heating. The second is useful for point concentration of heat. Multi-flame devices are used in situations where the object does not need to be heated too much.
- The service life of the device depends on the volume of the fuel tank. The smaller the capacity, the more often refueling will be required.
- Ignition type. Models can be equipped with piezoelectric elements; they are more convenient than those launched from an external fire source. In field conditions, for example, if there is no lighter or matches at hand, such a device turns into a useless thing.
Depending on the functions performed and frequency of use, devices can be divided into the following main groups: professional, stationary, household (multi-purpose with various attachments).
Professional gas soldering irons
If you imagine a car mechanic with a household soldering iron trying to connect two massive parts, it becomes a pity for the time spent. This is where professional devices can help. Builders, plumbers and workers in other areas where high temperatures are required are also turning to their help. Professional devices heat up parts perfectly and cut plastic easily. Well-purified butane is best for refilling. Cheap gas will quickly spoil the catalyst, and it may become clogged with solid impurities. If something like this happens, then you should not panic: the catalyst can be pulled out and cleaned. Professional gas tools make it possible to quickly complete any job at the highest level.
Portasol Super Pro 125
The Super Pro 125 is one of the most powerful gas soldering irons among its brethren, delivering the equivalent of 125 watts of heating power. The device has considerable dimensions: the diameter of the handle is 25 mm, the length without tip and cover is 180 mm. It is impossible to put such a device in your pocket. Fits well in the hand, despite the fact that it looks a bit thick in girth. The discreet gray-orange coloring suits the work environment. High-quality workmanship, durable and pleasant-to-touch plastic is evidence that the tool will serve for a long time and flawlessly. The instructions from the developer say that the device is refilled with butane. There are two assembly options: North American and European. In the first version, the handle at the reservoir is made of plastic, in the second - from metal.
Starting is carried out by lightly pressing a button. It heats up to operating temperature in 30 seconds. At the end there is a nut for adjusting the gas supply from minimum to maximum. She walks smoothly, but slightly stiffly, that is, spontaneous turning is excluded. Professionals speak positively about Portasol. This is one of the few models where regulation of the gas supply, and therefore the temperature of the tip, works normally, which expands the functionality. The continuous operation time in minimum power mode reaches 2 hours. Ultrasonic welding of the gas tank eliminates leakage when exposed to ultraviolet rays, extreme temperatures or shock.
Portasol Super Pro 125
Advantages:
- blocking the gas supply;
- easy start;
- high thermal power;
- plastic is compatible with butane;
- safe and durable.
Flaws:
- high price.
DAYREX DR-24
The professional device DAYREX DR-24 uses natural gas for lighters. The presence of a quick filling valve allows you to completely fill the soldering iron reservoir in just 3 seconds. The tool is packaged in a plastic case, which makes transportation convenient.
Equipment:
- conical tip for soldering;
- three stings. having different shapes;
- burner nozzle;
- nozzle for a gas hair dryer;
- keys for changing tips;
- solder and flux;
- cleaning bath;
- protective tip to cover hot parts.
DAYREX DR-24 has a piezo ignition system, which ensures complete autonomy. Users note that the soldering iron has established itself as a necessary tool, fully equipped to perform various functions. You can work, for example, with glue sticks to join different materials (plastic, wood, rubber). Works great in all weather conditions (rain, wind).
DAYREX DR-24
Advantages:
- qualitative;
- convenient for refueling;
- durable.
Flaws:
- No.
FAULT TABLE
| FAULT | POSSIBLE REASONS | WAYS TO CORRECT |
| Doesn't light up | No gas | Fill the soldering iron with butane |
| Gas pressure is too high or too low | Adjust the gas lever to increase or decrease gas pressure. | |
| Torch flame of inappropriate strength | Lack of gas | Fill the soldering iron with butane |
| The tip does not heat up | Lack of gas | Fill the soldering iron with butane |
| Damaged catalyst | Replace the catalyst with a new one |
Stationary gas soldering irons
Stationary devices are ergonomic in operation. They are comfortable to hold in your hand. With a stand, the device can be turned into an almost stationary burner.
Dremel Versatip F0132000JC
Users recognize the Dremel Versaflame F0132200JCa as one of the best stationary models. This multifunctional device is useful for working in the workshop and at home. It can do almost anything: melt, solder, burn, hot cut, etc. The fuel container is filled with liquefied butane. The set includes a removable leg. The device with high heating speed and fast recharging is ready for use at any time. Uninterrupted operation time under maximum load is 70-80 minutes. There is a flame blocking mechanism, a level regulator and a piezo element for ignition. The included hard case makes for easy storage.
Dremel Versatip F0132000JC
Advantages:
- versatility;
- ergonomics.
Flaws:
- rapid burnout of the catalyst;
- low inertia of the tip;
- inability to work at low temperatures.
MAKER ELECTRIC HT-D01
A powerful soldering iron can operate in torch mode, depending on the nozzle. A wide temperature range from 200 to 1,300 degrees makes it possible to use different types of solders. The presence of a leg for fixing the pad on the surface allows you to use the device permanently. The height of the flame is adjusted by a lever located on the body of the device. Management is reduced to intuitiveness and does not require special ingenuity. There are two replaceable attachments (microburner and soldering tip). Scope of application: soldering, welding, heat shrinking. The existing piezoelectric element serves to ignite the gas. The volume of the fuel tank is 20 ml, with minimal gas consumption the desired effect is achieved.
MAKER ELECTRIC HT-D01
Advantages:
- convenience and simplicity;
- wide temperature range.
Flaws:
- incorrect operation at low temperatures.
JBON TP-001
The functionality of a stationary gas tool is not limited in any way. The device copes well with such work as heat shrinking, paint removal, cleaning surfaces from corrosion, soldering, and a gas torch. The burner flame can be adjusted, but the range is not wide enough. The experts note that there are minor shortcomings in the operation of the regulator, in particular, at minimum the torch burns unstable. There were no complaints regarding burner ignition. The dimensions of the device are quite large. The beautiful appearance and excellent packaging will appeal to aesthetes. I'm pleased with the price.
JBON TP-001
Advantages:
- absolute reliability;
- high quality;
- aesthetics;
- price.
Flaws:
- No.
