Velleman VTSSD3 - Manual (Page 8)

VTSSD3
08.02.2010 ©Velleman nv 8
Note: press and hold the ▲[6]- or ▼ [7]-button to increase setting speed. While the iron is heating
up, the heating indication [12] flashes.
3. Tin the surface of both the soldering and desoldering tip by applying a new protective layer of solder.
4. Set the irons to the desired temperature.
Note: The soldering and desoldering irons can be used simultaneously.
IMPORTANT DESOLDERING NOTES
(a) Do not activate the vacuum pump until the solder has melted completely. Melting is achieved by
moving the hot tip around the lead, leaving visibly melted solder on the component side of the PCB.
(b) Release the vacuum switch when the tip is completely solder-free, otherwise the tip may clog.
(c) Add solder to the joint of the component and allow the solder to melt completely for improved
desoldering.
(d) Remove the solder collector and clean it after no more than 200 applications. However, daily cleaning
is strongly recommended, especially if the device is used frequently. Refer to §13 & 14.
(e) Replace the cotton pad in the solder collector and the in-line filter when they start to turn yellow.
(f) Use the included spring wire to clean the tip in case of insufficient suction. Also check the in-line
filters.
(g) Make sure that all filters are in place during operation in order to avoid damage to the vacuum pump.
(h) Read "12. Maintenance" when you wish to replace the tip.
9. Common causes for tip failure
• The temperature of the tip exceeds 410°C (770°F)
• The tip is not sufficiently tinned
• Wiping the tip on a surface with a high sulphur content or on a dirty or dry sponge
• Contact with organic or chemical substances such as plastic, resin, silicone and grease
• Impurities in the solder and/or a low tin content
10. Tip maintenance
The soldering and desoldering irons use extremely high temperatures. Make sure that the unit is switched
off for maintenance purposes.
Remove the tip and clean it after heavy or moderate use. We recommend cleaning the tip daily if the
station is used frequently. Remove excess solder in the tip retaining assembly to prevent the tip from
clogging.
The supplied soldering and desoldering tips are made of copper covered with a layer of iron. They will
retain their projected life span if used properly.
• Always tin the tip before returning it to the holder, prior to turning off the station or to storing it for
long periods of time. Wipe the tip on a wet sponge or use our tip cleaner before activating the device.
• Using excessive temperatures (more than 400°C or 750°F) will shorten the life span of the tip.
• Do not exercise excessive pressure on the tip while soldering and/or desoldering, as this may cause
damage to the tip.
• Never clean the tip with a file or with abrasive materials.
• Do not use flux containing chloride or acid. Use only resinous fluxes.
• If an oxide film has formed, you should remove it by buffing carefully with a 600-800 grit emery cloth
or by using isopropyl alcohol and consequently applying a new protective layer of solder.
• Set the desired temperature after allowing the unit to idle at 250°C for three minutes. The station will
be ready for use once the set temperature is reached.
IMPORTANT
Remove and clean the tip daily. Remove excess solder from the barrel nut assembly when installing a
new tip, otherwise the tip may be fused to the heating element or to the retaining assembly.
11. Loss of suction: possible causes
Use the procedure outlined below to determine whether the loss of suction is due to the tip, to the solder
collector, the tube or the in-line filters.
CAUTION: THE MAIN POWER SWITCH SHOULD BE IN THE "OFF"-POSITION BEFORE ATTEMPTING
THESE PROCEDURES. THIS WILL ALLOW THE DEVICE TO COOL.
a) disconnect the vacuum tube from the fitting on the front panel. Place your finger over the hole and
depress the vacuum switch. You should now have a strong vacuum. If not: return the station to the
point of sale to have the pump repaired.
b) disconnect the in-line filters from the iron assembly. Depress the vacuum switch; replace the filling of
the in-line filters if there is little suction or if the filters are discoloured.
c) Remove the solder collector from the desoldering iron assembly, place your finger over the hole and
depress the vacuum switch. Clean or replace the collector tube in case of insufficient suction.
d) Depress the vacuum switch and clean the tip with the included spring wire if there is no suction. Read
"13. Cleaning procedure for clogged tips".