Answer (ANZER) to Proper Hand Soldering

By Gary Rothstein

Hand soldering is a manual process of combining electronic components (elements) or wires using a soldering iron and solder. It involves heating the soldering iron to a specific temperature and then applying it to the joint between the components, allowing the solder to melt and form a solid connection as it cools down. Hand soldering is commonly used in electronic printed circuit board (PCB) assembly and repair, requiring precise and controlled soldering. It involves skill and dexterity to ensure proper solder flow, avoiding cold solder joints or damage to the components due to excessive heat.

Avoiding Cold Solder Joints

A cold solder joint refers to a soldered connection that has not been correctly formed or improperly executed during the soldering process. It occurs when the solder does not fully melt or adequately bond with the surfaces being soldered. As a result, the joint may appear dull, lumpy, or granular instead of having a smooth, shiny, and uniformly distributed solder flow.

Cold solder joints can be caused by several factors, such as insufficient heat application, improper soldering technique, inadequate flux or flux residue, dirty or oxidized surfaces, or incorrect soldering iron temperature. To ensure proper solder joint formation, it is essential to heat both the component and the PCB pad evenly and apply sufficient heat for the solder to flow and create a solid bond.

Cold solder joints can lead to various issues in electronic PCB assemblies. Since the connection is not solid and reliable, it can result in high resistance and poor conductivity. This can cause intermittent or complete failure of the circuit, leading to malfunctions, signal loss, or even damage to the components or the circuit board.

Inspecting and ensuring the quality of solder joints is crucial during electronic manufacturing or repair processes, as cold solder joints can compromise the functionality and reliability of electronic devices.

Proper Soldering Practices

To ensure high-quality soldering and avoid cold solder joints, here are some best soldering practices to follow:

  • Prepare the work area: Ensure a clean, organized workbench with proper lighting. Remove any unnecessary clutter or distractions that could interfere with the soldering process.

  • Use appropriate tools and materials: Choose a quality, temperature-controlled soldering iron with the proper wattage for the soldering application. Use high-quality soldering wire with the appropriate diameter and flux core to ensure adequate solder flow.

  • Clean and flux the surfaces: Clean the surfaces to be soldered using IPC-recommended materials to remove any dirt, oxide, or contaminants. Apply a small amount of flux to the surfaces before soldering to ensure good wetting and proper solder flow.

  • Heat management: Set the soldering iron temperature correctly based on the components and board being soldered. Too high a temperature can damage the components, while too low a temperature can cause incomplete solder melting. Use temperature-controlled soldering irons to maintain consistency.

  • Proper soldering technique: Hold the iron like a pen and ensure a steady hand. Apply heat to the joint sufficiently to melt the solder and create a strong bond between the soldered elements. Avoid excessive heat, which can damage components and the printed circuit board (PCB).

Our technicians are trained in all aspects of electronic manufacturing, starting with hand soldering techniques. These and many other precise manufacturing practices are why ANZER is a company for customers to trust. Why…because integrity, commitment to excellence, and belief in doing the right thing all contribute to winning for our customers.



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