How To Solder Without A Soldering Iron?

How to Solder Without a Soldering Iron?

You are working on an electronics project and part of the project entails soldering-joining two metal pieces. But there is a barrier to the process: you don’t have a soldering iron. Does it mean that you should postpone the project to a later date?

There are plenty of alternatives that you can use to solder even when you don’t have a soldering iron. As long as you have a reliable heat source, you can comfortably solder the metal pieces and have the best results at the end of the process.

Keep reading as we discuss how to solder without using a soldering iron.

Understand the basics of soldering

To know the significance of soldering iron and whether you can work without it, let’s look at the basics of the soldering process.

Soldering refers to a process of joining two metal pieces together using a solder material. The solder or filler material is exposed to high heat which will force it to melt. The filler material is applied at the joints of the two metals and once it hardens, it will form a strong bond.

The solder is able to melt and not the metals being joined because the filler material has a lower melting point than the solder.

There are two main types of soldering; hot soldering which entails the use of heat and cold soldering which uses low temperature or no heat at all. Hot soldering is a preferred method for electronics applications as its joints are quite strong. However, cold soldering is still relevant mainly on heat-sensitive applications. Some electronic components are quite sensitive to heat and may need this type of soldering.

You will need some form of expertise to differentiate cold solder from hot solder.

What is a soldering iron

In the soldering process, the main function of a soldering iron is to supply heat that is needed to melt the solder which will then join two metal workpieces. At the very end of the soldering iron is a heat-resistant metal that is responsible for melting the solder or any other alternative filler material.

Soldering irons come in different electric specifications. They also come in different physical sizes and the size that you choose will always depend on your application needs. For example, you will need a large soldering iron of you are working on projects that are physically big.

Soldering irons are popular because they are suitable for any soldering project. Other than in electrics and electronic projects, the irons are also suitable for plumbing, construction, and even jewelry making.

Use a soldering torch kit

Image source Amazon

One of the methods that you can use to solder without using a soldering iron is to use a propane torch. As we have described, the primary function of a soldering iron is to generate sufficient heat. Similarly, in this case, a soldering torch will also be used for generating the heat that is needed for the soldering job.

The torch is powered by propane and in some cases, butane is used. The fuel mixes with air to generate flame which will eventually generate heat.

Soldering torches come with different specification features. The most notable features include a fuel tank, nozzle, and regulator. Burning takes place on the regulator where the gas and air mix. The regulator or controller allows you to determine the level of heat to be used for welding.

Butane and propane gases are preferred for the soldering torch because of their ability to generate high temperatures that can go up to 4000°C. This temperature is quite sufficient to melt up different solder alloys.

Another advantage of soldering torches is flexibility. Other than being capable to do the job just like soldering irons, the torches are quite small and easy to handle.

However, propane and butane gases are major safety risks and hence need to be handled with utmost care. Any leakage can lead to fire accident. The toxic fumes released by the soldering torch kits are health hazards.

You may also have to do the soldering in a well-ventilated room. Also, be keen on the quality of soldering torch that you buy.

Hot air gas

Image source Bosch

A hot air gun is another alternative that you can use to solder without a soldering iron.  Also known as a heat gun, works by blowing a stream of hot air over the metal workpieces. The air blown from the gun is at a high velocity and will have a direct physical impact on the solder material.

The hot gas is due to the heating element inside the gun. It heats up the gas that is blown over it by a fan. The same fan is responsible for blowing the heated gas out through the nozzle.

Just like in the case of the torch, a hot air gun s also equipped with a  controller that allows a user to select different temperature levels. This gives you the power to determine the hotness of the ejected gas depending on the application area and desired results. The guns perform well when soldering and desoldering electronic components.

Compared to torches, hot air guns score pretty well when it comes to the safety of the devices. However, you still need to be careful when handling them. Always wear heat-protective gear when handling a gas gun.

Using a stove

You can also opt for the oldest soldering method if you don’t have a soldering iron- a stove. Even though it is a cumbersome method, it can do the job if handled well. All you need is to ignite the stove, and use it to heat the metals you want to join.

A stove will work only on small metals and projects that are require minimum levels of accuracy.

Conclusion

From this guide, you know how to solder without a soldering iron. Whichever method that you choose, ensure that its workmanship will meet the quality standard for your application. With the risks associated with soldering projects, ensure that you deploy all the necessary safety measures. It will also be prudent to seek professional help from experts whenever you want to solder without using a soldering iron

If you want to find more Electronic Components Distributors, please check out the following articles:

Electronic Components Distributors In the USA

Electronic Components Distributors In UK

Electronic Components Distributors In China

Electronic Components Distributors In India

Electronic Components Distributors In Singapore

Electronic Components Distributors In Malaysia

Electronic Components Distributors In Vietnam

Electronic Components Distributors In South Korea

Electronic Components Distributors In Taiwan

Electronic Components Distributors In Hong Kong