Velleman VTSSC70 - Manual (Page 6)

VTSSC70
18.02.2010 ©Velleman nv 6
SOLDERING
IMPORTANT NOTE
Do not use temperatures in excess of 410°C (770°F) for normal soldering and desoldering purposes.
The device can be used at higher temperatures for short periods of time. EXERCISE GREAT CAUTION
WHEN DOING SO.
CAUTION
Do not touch the metal parts of the soldering iron while the unit is being used or while it is cooling in
order to avoid burns.
• Set the power switch [6] to the “ON”-position.
• Press the up-button (▲) [4] until the display [1] indicates 250°C (or 482°F). The unit [B] is shown
next to the temperature [A]. When the temperature is stable, the heating indication [C] is off.
Note: to change the indicated unit, see § parameter settings above.
• Tin the surface of the soldering tip by applying a new protective layer of solder.
• Set the iron to the desired working temperature.
• Always return the soldering iron to its stand between uses.
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 uses 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.
The supplied soldering tip is made of copper covered with a layer of iron. It will retain its 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, 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. Maintenance
• Soldering tips can be replaced simply by unscrewing the barrel nut assembly. Turn off the station and
allow it to cool down first. Damage to the soldering station may occur if the system is left on and the
removed tip has not been replaced.
• After removing the tip, you should blow out any oxide dust that may have formed in the tip
receptacle. Be careful not to get dust in your eyes. Replace the tip and tighten the screw. Pliers can
be used to avoid contact with hot surfaces BUT SHOULD BE USED WITH CAUTION because over-
tightening may cause damage to the element or fuse the tip to the element.
• The outer cover of the iron and station may be cleaned with a damp cloth using small amounts of
liquid detergent. Never submerse the unit in liquid or allow any liquid to enter the case of the station.
Never use any solvent to clean the case.
• If the iron or station should become faulty or, for some reason does not operate normally, the
system should be returned to the service department of your authorized dealer or service agent.