Neil,

This has to do with the caloric demand of phase transiion, i.e., one calorie = the energy required
to heat 1 cc of water 1 deg. C... until it reaches 100 deg C... then to heat it one more degree
(make it boil... in other words, go from liquid to gas) it requires 100X (or is it 10x?, those
pesky decimal points always bugger me up!) the required energy. Solder changing from solid to
liquid is a phase transition as well, so similar physics apply.

Here's a neat idea how to tell for sure:

Get your hands on an electric meter, the kind they have sealed to your house, and put it in line
with the solder machine. Try scenario "A" for a month and record the power consumption, likewise
"B" then compare... The proof is in the pudding, don't you think?

I'd be very interested to hear your findings!

Good luck,

Ed Popielarski
QTA Machine
10 Mc Laren, Suite D
Irvine, Ca. USA 92618
Ph: (949)581-6601
Fx: (949)581-2448
E-Mail: [log in to unmask]
http://www.qta.net
ASK ABOUT OUR BGA REBALLER!

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