Velleman VTDESOL4 Notice D'emploi page 5

DESOLDERING : IMPORTANT NOTES
(a) Do not activate the vacuum pump until the solder has melted completely. Melting is achieved by moving the hot
tip around the lead, leaving visibly melted solder on the component side of the PCB.
(b) Release the vacuum switch when the tip is completely solder-free, otherwise the tip may clog.
(c) Add solder to the joint of the component and allow the solder to melt completely for improved desoldering.
(d) Remove the solder collector and clean it after no more than 200 applications. However, daily cleaning is strongly
recommended, especially if the device is used on a daily basis.
(e) Replace the cotton pad in the solder collector and the in-line filter when they start to turn yellow.
(f) Use the included spring wire to clean the tip in case of insufficient suction. Also check the in-line filters.
(g) Make sure that all filters are in place during operation in order to avoid damage to the vacuum pump.
(h) Read "OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR DESOLDERING ACTIVITIES" when you wish to replace the tip.
6. Common Causes for Tip Failure
- The temperature of the tip exceeds 410°C (770°F)
- The tip is not sufficiently tinned
- Wiping the tip on a surface with a high sulphur content or on a dirty or dry sponge
- Contact with organic or chemical substances such as plastic, resin, silicone and grease
- Impurities in the solder and/or a low tin content
7. Maintenance Tips for Tips
The desoldering iron uses extremely high temperatures. Make sure that the unit is switched off for maintenance
purposes.
Remove the tip and clean it after heavy or moderate use. We recommend cleaning the tip daily if the desoldering
station is used on a daily basis. Remove excess solder in the tip retaining assembly to prevent the tip from clogging.
The supplied desoldering tips are made of copper covered with a layer of iron. They will retain their projected life
span if used properly.
- Always tin the tip before returning it to the holder, prior to turning off the station or to storing it for long periods of
time. Wipe the tip on a wet sponge or use our tip cleaner (ref. VTSTC) before activating the device.
- Using excessive temperatures (more than 400°C or 750°F) will shorten the life span of the tip.
- Do not exercise excessive pressure on the tip while desoldering, as this may cause damage to the tip.
- Never clean the tip with a file or with abrasive materials.
- Do not use flux containing chloride or acid. Use only resinous fluxes.
- If an oxide film has formed, you should remove it by buffing carefully with a 600-800 grit emery cloth or by using
isopropyl alcohol and consequently applying a new protective layer of solder.
- Set the temperature control knob to the minimum position and place the main power switch in the "ON"-position.
- Set the temperature for 250°C (482°F).
- Coat the tinned surfaces with a layer of solder.
- Install the desired temperature after allowing the unit to idle at 250°C for three minutes.
- The station will be ready for use once the installed temperature is reached.
8. Loss of Suction: Possible Causes
Use the procedure outlined below to determine whether the loss of suction is due to the tip, to the solder collector,
the tube or the in-line filters.
CAUTION : THE MAIN POWER SWITCH SHOULD BE IN THE "OFF"-POSITION BEFORE ATTEMPTING
THESE PROCEDURES. THIS WILL ALLOW THE DEVICE TO COOL.
VTDESOL4
- 5 - VELLEMAN