Soldering Help

rodman99999,

 Many thanks for posting the article about the 5 family types of solder. It explains so much more than I knew previously. Wonder Solder was a longtime choice for me, but after reading this, I must seek out some of the other products available. In the past, I have tried various solders products and many times was disappointed with the performance as a whole. I have had an interest in silver bearing solder, but again the results were dull looking joints. 

 Maybe you can point me in the right direction about a silver bearing solder and temperature that might best for a given choice. 

@4krowme -

     You're welcome.

     I've encountered solders, whose flux chemistry made the finished product look, "dull".   Flux removal brought out the shine.

     There are other, more compelling reasons for flux removal, than aesthetics, of course*.

     *Good stuff, here: https://www.chemtronics.com/do-you-need-to-clean-flux

     Then again: I have seen cold solder joints that appeared dull, without the other signs/visuals, that would indicate a faulty joint.    That makes the case for an iron and large enough tip, to maintain a recommended temp, as well as sufficient/proper application of the heat (time, tinning and tip position.

      Regarding a good, silver-bearing solder: as mentioned:      https://www.amazon.com/Cardas-Soldering-Eutectic-Silver-Solder/dp/B015X68HXW

      Adhere to their temp recommendations, follow good soldering guidelines and you can't go wrong!

                                Happy holidays and hobbying!

   Cardas has been recommended in the past, so I will give it another go. Last time, joints didn't look good, but I have found that ALL the previous solder must be removed before you can trust the results of resoldering a joint.

  Some of the newer products have solder that is simply hard to work with (high melting point). That is a recent change in the last few years, but it doesn't happen too often. Figured that it was just hi temp no lead solder, but after reading the paper, I see that I was wrong. Glad it was put forth.

rodman99999 is knowledgeable. My vote is for rod, I would definitely take his advice and I've been soldering for 50+ years.

Austor 60/40 Rosin Core Solder is good solder for electronics, providing excellent insulation resistance.