From: Knowles, Ed on Sat, Feb 22, 1997 6:42 AM
Subject: Soldering
To: TechNet

During a recent audit, it was suggested that we verify the temperature 
of our soldering irons periodically.  We have always verified the idle 
and set temperatures of new models (±5°C idle and ±15°C set temps.) to 
verify they were capable of meeting our requirements, and have relied 
on operator training to recognize any abnormalities in production 
soldering irons.  We feel that verification of irons using a 
calibrated instrument would be time consuming and not value added.  It 
is our contention that cold or overheated solder is inspectable and 
that trained operators would realize if their iron was running too hot 
or cold by the behavior of the solder.  We have not had any history of 
bad irons causing a failure.  Besides, we tried verifying soldering 
irons some years ago, but gave it up because they kept failing due to 
oxidation.  The tester basically had to get the iron in new condition 
to get a test to pass.  I would appreciate any comments for or against 
this practice.  The auditor feels it is absolutely necessary for 
process control.  
PS: We do verify resistance to ground and voltage of the iron tip 
every 2 weeks.
Thanks.

***************************************************************************
* TechNet mail list is provided as a service by IPC using SmartList v3.05 *
***************************************************************************
* To subscribe/unsubscribe send a message <to: [log in to unmask]>   *
* with <subject: subscribe/unsubscribe> and no text in the body.          *
***************************************************************************
* If you are having a problem with the IPC TechNet forum please contact   *
* Dmitriy Sklyar at 847-509-9700 ext. 311 or email at [log in to unmask]      *
***************************************************************************