Weller WES51

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Weller WES51 Soldering Station

Description

The Weller WES51 soldering station is used for connecting electrical components and conductors together in a circuit. The soldering iron uses heat to melt solder to form a strong joint that is electrically conductive. A soldering station provides much of the same basic functionality as a soldering iron but adds more precise control of temperature.

Training

Training is required to use this tool. The training module can be taken here.

Trained Managers

The managers that have adopted this tool and can help you with using. Keep in mind these are not the only managers that know how to use this tool, feel free to ask any. Full list of adopted tools can be found here here.

Manager

Manuals

A PDF of the manual can be found here: can be found here

Tips & Tricks

• Preparation
  • CAUTION: Ensure that your circuit is completely de-energized and disconnected from any power sources before attempting to solder.
  • Use a smoke absorber to mitigate the fumes created while soldering.
  • Wet the sponge with water before use (make sure it is damp - not dripping wet).
  • Be sure to allow the iron to fully heat up before using. Using an iron that is not at the proper temperature can lead to poor solder joints and will be frustrating to use.
  • Tin the tip - cover the soldering iron tip in a layer of solder and wipe it on a wet sponge before making solder joints in your circuit.
• Process
  • Apply heat to the components being soldered by touching the tip of the soldering iron directly to the components for about 2 seconds then apply the solder a short distance away from the soldering iron, allowing it to be drawn into the joint.
  • The quality of a solder joint can be determined by visual inspection. A good solder joint looks shiny and is shaped like a volcano, while a bad solder joint looks dull or has blobs. A bad solder joint should be resoldered since it will likely have a poor electrical connection.
• Follow-Up
  • Allow the connection to cool before moving any wires or components.
  • Before turning off the soldering station, tin the tip to protect the metal from corrosion and to ensure the iron works well for the next maker.
• Troubleshooting
  • Solder wicks into the work when the work is at the proper temperature. If it is difficult to get solder to wick into the work, then heat from the iron may need to applied for a longer period of time. Some components or wires may take more heat to solder. Speak with a manager if you are having trouble using the soldering station.

Consumables

If you are looking for something on this list, and you cannot find it in the room, tell a manager. We likely have more stock in storage.

• Soldering iron tips
• Soldering station sponge
• Solder