Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: Homebrew PCBs

Just took a look at information from Weller. They recommend that
you only use a synthetetic wet sponge to clean the tip. They do not
recommend rags or cloths. They recommend frequently cleaning the
tip and retinning right after cleaning. They also recommend using
distilled water instead of tap water to avoid the mineral content
found in most tap water.

I have been know to use other things to clean the tip especially in
the field, but I have to say that the wet sponge is the best I have
seen. A number of the guys at work use the brass pads that have
been out for a number of years now or atleast that I have seen them
but I have always wondered about tip wear with these. Personal have
not used them due to that. The wet sponge has been working for me
for 25+ yrs of professional soldering. In Jr. High and High School
I used the sling method or whatever was handy to wipe it on. The
sponge is cleaner and neater. Yes in the field it is inconvenient
but is what I find to give the best results.

Ben