Is it better to heat the soldering iron inside or outside

Mondo Technology Updated on 2024-02-21

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Soldering irons are an indispensable tool in electronic fabrication and soldering work, and they come in a wide variety of different functions. Among them, internal heating and external heating electric soldering irons are two common types. Which is better depends on the specific use case and individual needs. Below, we will make an in-depth comparison and analysis of these two soldering irons.

First, the structure and working principle.

Internal Soldering Iron: As the name suggests, the main heating element of an internal heating iron is located inside the soldering iron tip. This design allows the heat to be transferred directly from the inside to the soldering tip, with high heating efficiency and low heat loss. Because the heating element is encased inside the tip, internal heating electric soldering irons are usually small in size, light in weight, and easy to handle.

Externally heated soldering irons: In contrast to internal heating, externally heated electric soldering irons have heating elements distributed on the outside of the soldering iron tip. The heat is transferred to the soldering point through the metal part of the soldering tip. Since the heating element is external, externally heated soldering irons are usually larger and heavier.

2. Heating efficiency and speed.

Internal heating soldering iron: Since the heating element is located directly inside the soldering iron tip, internal heating electric soldering iron is characterized by fast heating and high efficiency. This makes it excellent in situations where fast welding is required.

Externally heated electric soldering iron: Although the heating speed of externally heated electric soldering iron is relatively slow, because its heating element is external, the heat can be more evenly distributed on the soldering iron head, thus ensuring the soldering quality to a certain extent.

3. Scope of use and applicability.

Internal heating soldering irons: Due to their small and lightweight design and fast heating, internal heating irons are ideal for use in tight spaces or where fast soldering is required. For example, fine welding in electronic manufacturing or small parts welding in jewelry processing, etc.

Externally heated soldering irons: Due to their large volume and heavier weight, externally heated electric soldering irons are more suitable for use in occasions that require a longer time for soldering or soldering over a large area. For example, large-area soldering on circuit boards or joining metal materials, etc.

Fourth, ** and maintenance costs.

Internal heating electric soldering iron: Generally speaking, the internal heating electric soldering iron is relatively high because its structure is more complex and the manufacturing cost is relatively high. In addition, since the heating element is located inside the tip, the maintenance cost is relatively high if the entire tip needs to be replaced if it is damaged.

Externally heated soldering irons: In contrast, externally heated electric soldering irons are usually more affordable. Moreover, because its heating element is external, it can be replaced separately after damage, and the maintenance cost is relatively low.

5. Operation experience and comfort.

Internal heating soldering iron: Due to its small and lightweight design, internal heating soldering iron is more flexible and convenient to operate. At the same time, due to its fast heating speed, it can reduce the waiting time and improve the work efficiency.

Externally heated soldering irons: Although externally heated electric soldering irons are larger and heavier, they can maintain a stable temperature output during long-term use, reducing hand fatigue. In addition, due to its uniform heat distribution, it is also relatively pleasant to feel during welding.

6. Summary and Suggestions.

To sum up, internal and external soldering irons have their own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing which one is better depends on the specific use scenario and individual needs. If you need to solder quickly and are not too sensitive to **, you can choose an internal heating electric soldering iron; If you need to solder for a long time or are more sensitive to **, you can choose an externally heated electric soldering iron. Of course, there are other factors that need to be considered when actually buying, such as brand, quality, etc.

No matter which type of soldering iron you choose, you need to pay attention to the following points: first, make sure that the quality of the soldering iron is reliable and the brand is reputable; Secondly, check whether the power cord is in good condition and whether the plug is firm before use; Finally, keep your hands dry and avoid the risk of electric shock when using. At the same time, for beginners, it is recommended to start practicing with simple welding tasks first, and gradually master welding skills before trying more complex tasks.

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