In classical soldering, an imperfect contact heating of the working tip is used. This is manifested in low efficiency, energy loss and increased power consumption. Induction soldering station is devoid of these disadvantages. Next, we consider the principle of operation of this design, some well-known brands, as well as equipment features.
How does it work?
The soldering induction station operates as follows: a high-frequency voltage enters the coil, after which an alternating magnetic field is formed. Since the skin layer of the working tip is made of a ferromagnetic alloy, a process of re-magnetization is created, accompanied by the formation of eddy currents. As a result, a significant release of thermal energy is observed.
The advantages of this method are obvious:
- Due to the fact that the soldering iron tip acts as a heating part, the heat is distributed evenly.
- There are no losses from thermal inertia with the absolute exclusion of local overheating.
- The sting does not oxidize and does not burn out.
- The period of operation of the device and its efficiency is increasing.
Features of heating
The heating of the soldering induction station is regulated in two ways. In the first option, you will need to install a thermal sensor on the sting, connect it to a digital control unit. A similar method is used on almost all budget models.
The second way is to change the ferromagnetic composition that covers the sting. The effect is that a ferromagnet loses its properties when a certain temperature is reached. After that, the tool stops heating. This method (smart heating) was patented by Metkal.
Each of the adjustment methods has its pros and cons. For example, a soldering induction station with a thermal indicator is much cheaper, and the accuracy of the equipment directly depends on the digital control unit.
Nuances
The second option is to stabilize the temperature by installing tip cartridges that are more reliable. However, such “smart devices” have several disadvantages:
- They have a high cost, and therefore not every professional can purchase such equipment.
- To change the mode of operation, you should use different tips in the form of cartridges, which are expensive and are not included in the kit.
Quick Soldering Induction Station
The cost of the original modification varies within $ 230, a Chinese copy can be found half the price.
Characteristics of the Quick-203H model:
- Rated power - 90 watts.
- The temperature regime is 200-420 degrees Celsius.
- The voltage supplied to the induction coil is 36 V / 400 kHz.
- The error in stabilization of the thermal regime is two degrees.
- Heating to the optimum temperature - up to 25 seconds.
The digital controller allows you to configure up to ten temperature profiles, set a lock with a password, calibrate, determine the delay period for switching on and off the device. Owners of Chinese copies are advised to purchase the original sting, since the one included in the kit is not of high quality.
Quick 202D
This unit belongs to the powerful 90 W equipment, it is used for mounting and dismounting various electronic elements with the help of refractory lead-free solder. Quick 202D induction soldering station is equipped with a liquid crystal screen, has a temperature controller from 80 to 480 degrees, as well as a stabilization mode with an error of 2 g.
Features of the device:
- There is a built-in PID controller.
- There is a switching power supply that protects against overheating and excessive voltage.
- A quick indicator of heating and restoration of thermal conditions.
- Compact and modern design.
- Static electricity fuse.
- Option to save heat stings.
- Compatible with different types of work tips.
Parameters:
- Power consumption - 90 watts.
- The output voltage is 400 kHz.
- Automatic on and off mode - from 0 to 99 minutes with the ability to adjust.
- The power of the soldering iron is 80 watts.
- The heating element is an electromagnetic type.
- Mass - 1000 g.
- Dimensions - 120/78/155 mm.
Metcal Induction Soldering Station
In the line from this manufacturer, the MX-5241 modification should be noted. It belongs to the professional variations of the highest category.
Specifications:
- The output power range is 5-80 W (with automatic adjustment).
- Inductive frequency of operation - 13.56 MHz.
- Power consumption - 125 watts.
- Operating voltage - 90-240 V.
This unit has two independent channels that allow you to synchronously use a soldering iron and tweezers. Selection of the required cartridge tip is facilitated by the presence of an instant power indicator. The average price of a device is $ 1,200.
Yihua 900H
This soldering machine belongs to the professional units of lead-free melting with induction heating. The power of the equipment is 90 V. During the operation of the induction soldering station Yihua 900H, the corresponding method for heating the tip using eddy high-frequency current is used. The design features of the device allow you to observe high accuracy, and warming up to a maximum (300 degrees) takes only a few seconds. The control unit constantly monitors the condition of the sting, adjusting the temperature if necessary. There is a blocking function and anti-static protection.
Features:
- Stable temperature maintenance in all ranges.
- A minimum error of one degree allows the most accurate processing of the components of the most critical parts.
- The display shows the current temperature, allowing the operator to control the process.
- A powerful induction heating element provides instant heating of the tip to the required condition and quick compensation of possible losses.
- Special protection allows you to work with parts sensitive to static voltage.
To summarize
Above are considered popular induction soldering machines, which belong to the pinnacle of achievements in the field of work through eutectic soldering. It is necessary to choose equipment based on the frequency of its operation, serviced facilities and financial capabilities.
It is worth noting that it is quite possible to make an induction soldering station with your own hands, if you have at hand a source of high-frequency currents. As this element, a pulsed computer power supply is suitable. However, experts note that the cost of a homemade machine is slightly lower than the cheap Chinese model. If you plan to work on a professional level, think about purchasing a high-quality unit that can withstand a long mode of operation.