In classical soldering, an imperfect scheme of contact heating of the working tip is used. This manifests itself in low efficiency, energy losses and increased power consumption. The induction soldering station is devoid of these disadvantages. Next, consider the principle of operation of this design, some well-known brands, as well as equipment features.
How does it work?
The soldering induction station functions as follows: a high-frequency voltage is supplied to the coil, after which an alternating magnetic field is formed. Since the skin layer of the working tip is made of a ferromagnetic alloy, a re-magnetization process is created, accompanied by the formation of eddy currents. As a result, a significant release of thermal energy is observed.
The advantages of this method are obvious:
- Due to the fact that the soldering iron tip acts as a heating part, the heat is evenly distributed.
- There are no losses from thermal inertia with the absolute exclusion of local overheating.
- The sting does not oxidize and does notburns out.
- The period of operation of the device and its efficiency increase.
Heating features
The heating of the soldering induction station is regulated in two ways. In the first option, you will need to install a thermal sensor on the tip, connect it to a digital control unit. A similar method is used on almost all budget models.
The second way is to change the ferromagnetic composition that covers the sting. The effect is that the ferromagnet loses its properties when a certain temperature is reached. After that, the tool stops heating up. This method (smart heating) was patented by Metkal.
Each of the adjustment methods has its pros and cons. For example, a soldering induction station with a thermal indicator is much cheaper, and the accuracy of the equipment directly depends on the digital control unit.
Nuances
The second option for temperature stabilization is made by installing tip cartridges, which are more reliable. However, such "smart devices" have a number of disadvantages:
- Have a high cost, and therefore not every professional can purchase such equipment.
- To change the operating mode, you should use different tips in the form of cartridges, which are expensive and not included in the kit.
Quick Soldering Induction Station
The cost of the original modification varies within 230 dollars, the Chinese copy can be found twicecheaper.
Quick-203H specifications:
- Rated power - 90 W.
- Temperature regime - 200-420 degrees Celsius.
- The voltage supplied to the induction coil is 36V/400kHz.
- The thermal stabilization error is two degrees.
- Heat to optimum temperature - up to 25 seconds.
The digital controller allows you to set up to ten temperature profiles, set a password lock, calibrate, define a delay period for turning on and deactivating the device. Owners of Chinese copies are advised to purchase the original tip, as the one included in the kit is not of high quality.
Quick 202D
This unit is a 90W powerful equipment, used for mounting and dismounting various electronic components with lead-free refractory solder. The induction soldering station Quick 202D is equipped with a liquid crystal screen, has a temperature control from 80 to 480 degrees, as well as a stabilization mode with an error of 2 gr.
Features of the device:
- There is a built-in PID controller.
- There is a switching power supply that protects against overheating and excessive voltage.
- Fast heating and thermal recovery rate.
- Compact and modern design.
- An ESD fuse.
- Option to keep tip warm.
- Compatible with different types of working tips.
Parameters:
- Power consumption - 90 W.
- Output voltage - 400 kHz.
- Auto on and off - 0 to 99 minutes adjustable.
- Soldering iron power - 80 W.
- The heating element is electromagnetic type.
- Weight - 1000 g.
- Dimensions - 120/78/155 mm.
Metcal Induction Soldering Station
In the line from this manufacturer, the modification MX-5241 should be noted. It belongs to the professional variations of the highest category.
Features:
- Output power range - 5-80 W (with automatic adjustment).
- Inductive operating frequency is 13.56 MHz.
- Power consumption - 125 W.
- Working voltage - 90-240 V.
This unit has two independent channels that allow you to use the soldering iron and tweezers synchronously. The selection of the required cartridge tip is facilitated by the instantaneous power indicator. The average price of the device is $1200.
Yihua 900H
This soldering machine is a professional lead-free smelting machine with induction heating. The power of the equipment is 90V. The Yihua 900H induction soldering station uses the appropriate method of heating the tip with high-frequency eddy current. The design features of the apparatus allow high accuracy, and heating up tomaximum (300 degrees) takes only a few seconds. The control unit constantly monitors the condition of the sting, correcting the temperature if necessary. Includes locking function and anti-static protection.
Features:
- Stable temperature maintenance in all ranges.
- The minimum error of one degree allows you to most accurately process the components of the most critical parts.
- The display shows the current temperature, allowing the operator to control the process.
- Powerful induction heating element provides instant heating of the tip to the required condition and quick compensation of possible losses.
- Special protection allows handling of static sensitive parts.
Summarize
The above are the popular induction soldering machines, which are among the pinnacle of eutectic soldering work. It is necessary to choose equipment based on the frequency of its operation, serviced facilities and financial capabilities.
It is worth noting that it is quite possible to make an induction soldering station with your own hands if you have a source of RF currents at hand. As this element, a switching computer power supply is suitable. However, experts note that the cost of a home-made machine is slightly lower than a cheap Chinese model. If you are planning to work forprofessional level, consider purchasing a high-quality unit that can withstand long-term use.
