Types of solder.

Gauge · Post by **Gauge** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 8:38 am

I've noticed that there are several different types of solder. What type will I need for simple LED/resistor apps?

Kylwell · Post by **Kylwell** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 11:46 am

I use 10/30/03, .025in solder for all my electrical work.

robiwon · Post by **robiwon** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 9:52 pm

You want to use rosin core solder. Never use acid core solder. That stuff is made for soldering copper pipes and plumbing work. I tried pure silver solder and did not like it. It has a higher melting point.

Umi_Ryuzuki · Post by **Umi_Ryuzuki** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 11:22 pm

60/40 solder is what is typically found at the local Radio Shack or
The Source... It is a good general purpose solder, and a 25-30 watt
soldering pen and a bit of flux is all that is required to work it well.

I use 56 percent silver solder for heavy brass joints.
Ships masts, bent exhast uptakes...
For something like a ships mast, silver solder can be used
to to the main joint connections. Then the 60/40 solder can
be used to add in smaller bits. Because the silver solder has
such a high melting point, the joint won't come apart when
heat is applied to solder smaller joints later.

Silver solder is not intended for electrical work.