[Slaughter]

Can someone recommend a tip for doing SMD work with a WLC100? It seems that even the smallest ST tip from Weller is still too big. This will be my first time doing SMD work, so I want to make sure I have the proper tools. Thanks

 

[luvdunhill]

I use the ST1 tip and it's plenty small for SMD work

 

[mb3k]

I've been using the ST7 tip for a while now. The ST5,6,7 are the thinnest for the WLC100. The only difference is the ST5 is a flat tip, ST6 is a screwdriver tip, ST7 is a conical tip.
What package size of SMD are you considering? If you have a steady hand and decent dexterity, the ST5, 6, or 7 works fine (pun not intended)

 

[luvdunhill]

hm, I thought the 1/16" ST1 was the smallest

http://www.amazon.com/Weller-ST1-Sol.../dp/B000B5YI8Y

 

[Slaughter]

I am going to be building an AlienDAC.

 

[mb3k]

Quote:

Originally Posted by luvdunhill /img/forum/go_quote.gif hm, I thought the 1/16" ST1 was the smallest http://www.amazon.com/Weller-ST1-Sol.../dp/B000B5YI8Y

I've scanned these from the box of the WLC100:

Hope it helps

 

[Slaughter]

Thanks, Ill pick up a 6 and 7 and see which I like better. From what ive read it seems those tips are still a little large for some SMD, but I will give it a shot. I have 3 boards to play with.

 

[n_maher]

I use an ST7 tip FWIW. In my experience if that tip becomes to large to do the work you probably aren't going to have much luck soldering whatever part by hand.

 

[picklgreen]

If you are going to be doing a lot of SMD work than I would buy a Weller WM120. The tip that comes with it is .015 in./.38 mm conical. It only runs at one temp (800°) but this is fine. It is also a MUST for soldering tiny PCB mount swutches and jacks! The iron costs about $40.

 

[abcheng]

Just to give you an idea, I use a Weller WES1 with the original tip to solder SMD down to 0805 quite a bit, and have no problems with it.

 

[picklgreen]

I dont think the Weller WES1 exsists here in America....

 

[abcheng]

Quote:

Originally Posted by picklgreen /img/forum/go_quote.gif I dont think the Weller WES1 exsists here in America....

My mistake, the 5 on my keyboard sometimes doesn't register properly. What I meant to say is the WES51 soldering station.

 

[picklgreen]

I had the feeling thats what you meant. Yes the WES51 is a very nice soldering station. I actaully asked santa for one of those