Vectronics VEC-1500K - Manual (Page 27)

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4. Never use the tip as a prying tool. Screwdriver tips shouldn't be used to
pry up flattened-over leads or to wedge apart solderable surfaces. This will
damage the electroplated iron shell protecting the tip's contact surface and
expose the copper core. Exposure, in turn, will cause rapid tip erosion. Also,
avoid applying excessive iron pressure to PC boards to improve thermal
contact. This, too, will damage electroplating--and it may delaminate the
pad!
5. High-temperatures are tough on tips. When using tip temperatures above
650-700 degrees F, take time to clean and re-tin your iron more often.
Oxidation occurs more rapidly at higher temperatures, increasing the
possibility of de-wetting.
6. Never file, sand, scrape, or grind a plated tip to clean it. Once
electroplating is compromised, core erosion will destroy the tip rapidly! If
the tip is contaminated enough to require dressing, use a special polishing bar
(available from many electronic supply houses). If the tip's outer plating is
cracked or delaminated, don't waste time dressing it out. Replace it
immediately.
7. Renew dewetted tips. If a tip de-wets and resists further tinning, you still
may be able to save it. While the tip is hot, try a gentle cleaning with a soft
wire brush or a very fine-grit emery paper (avoid aggressive abrasives that
could break through the electroplate). Once the heavier oxides are removed,
dip it in RA flux and attempt re-tinning. It may take several flux-cleaning
and tinning cycles to restore full wetting. If this fails, replace the tip!