[sdiy] Solder ( 60/40 vs 63/37 )

[Magnus Danielson]

From: Tom Arnold <xyzzy at sysabend.org>
Subject: [sdiy] Solder ( 60/40 vs 63/37 )
Date: Wed, 12 Oct 2005 16:48:20 -0700
Message-ID: <20051012234820.GE80572 at moo.sysabend.org>

> I'm about to purchase new solder and I'm at a loss as to what I am currently
> using.  I know its Kester rosin core.  .25 or under ( I can find that out
> with my calipers ) but I have no clue if its 60/40 or 63/37.  I have a
> feeling its 60/40... but...
> 
> I'm assuming the real difference between the two is just the temperature
> range it stays liquid at with 60/40 being fairly slow to solidify ( 13
> degrees or so of working range? ).  So I'm guessing this is what I have.
> Unfortunatly the labels are long since worn off...
> 
> Guidence?

Just to confuse you, I use solder with a stench of silver in it. Multicore.
Makes me happy. At least I beleive that I get clean and nice solderings as a
result of it, but it could just be that my soldering techniques have improved.

In my book, a slightly lower soldering temperature can be an advantage, but I
think that the fluss type and amount really accounts for a greater difference
most of the time. Then again, this depends on taste, soldering technique and
various requirements (price, temperature of gear etc).

Cheers,
Magnus