Glossary of Soldering Terms

Antimony

An element used in the production of some solders. It should be avoided for use in stained glass.


Ceramic Heater

A type of heating element comprised primarily of ceramic, noted as extremely fast heating and efficient.


Chisel Tip

A soldering iron tip shaped like a chisel tool. This is the most common shape used for soldering stained glass. Chisel tips are made in a variety of sizes, the most common being 1/8”, 1/4” and 3/8".


Heat Sink

A device used to draw or absorb heat being generated by another source. For example, an object being soldered acts as a heat sink to the soldering iron.


Decorative Soldering

Any decorative effects created in solder. These effects are created with a soldering iron, usually with a very narrow tip. Special solder, like 63/37 or QuickSet, make it easier to create special effects because it has a "zero" pasty range.


Eutectic Point

An exact single temperature point at which an alloy goes from solidus to liquidus with no pasty range. For example, the eutectic point of lead and tin is 361º F. This point is obtained only by 63/37 tin/lead alloy.


Flux

A chemical agent used to remove compounds from the surface of metals during the soldering process. (See organic and inorganic flux.)


Idle Temperature

A very low temperature at which the iron is on, maintaining the capability of a more rapid heat up than if the iron was off or "cold". This is usually between 20000F and 30000F.


Inorganic Flux

A flux comprised of one or more inorganic salt such as zinc chloride or ammonium chloride. Inorganic fluxes are more corrosive and conductive than organic fluxes,. They are effective on all common metals.


Leaded Solder

A material used to join metals comprised of tin and lead.


Liquidus

The temperature at which a pure metal becomes completely molten or liquid.


Mica

A mineral based material used as a construction component in wire wound type heaters of soldering irons.


Organic Flux

Organic fluxes are not as corrosive as inorganic fluxes. They are often used when the surface of the glass may be effected by the flux, such as painted glass.
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