BradenDI got away without using flux until a month ago. It definitely isn't required but I wouldn't go back to soldering without it. I use 60/40 rosin core solder for everything because it just works.
I use 60/40 rosin core solder for everything because it just works.
are you saying you weren't using rosin core solder up until a month ago?
gregc isn't the rosin the flux? Rosin core solder contains a mild flux and is designed to solder parts where flux residue cannot be removed. An example would be electric circuit boards, or electrical connections. In these applications there is often no practical way to clean flux residue after soldering. Rosin flux residue is non-corrosive which eliminates the need for post solder cleaning. The mild nature of rosin core limits its use to copper and brass.
isn't the rosin the flux?
Rosin core solder contains a mild flux and is designed to solder parts where flux residue cannot be removed. An example would be electric circuit boards, or electrical connections. In these applications there is often no practical way to clean flux residue after soldering. Rosin flux residue is non-corrosive which eliminates the need for post solder cleaning. The mild nature of rosin core limits its use to copper and brass.
greg - Philadelphia & Reading / Reading
Overmod DigitalGriffin How do you solder a wire to BB loco frame? It took forever and I'm worried it's not the strongest bond. I think it's cast zinc. You cheat. Drill and tap for a screw or two into the Zamac, then file the screw head as needed for clearance, and solder with appropriate flux to the screw metal. You can also 'inlay' a small piece of compatible metal, or use an eye or spade (if you want a push-on connection) terminal secured by a screw if you have the room.
DigitalGriffin How do you solder a wire to BB loco frame? It took forever and I'm worried it's not the strongest bond. I think it's cast zinc.
You cheat. Drill and tap for a screw or two into the Zamac, then file the screw head as needed for clearance, and solder with appropriate flux to the screw metal. You can also 'inlay' a small piece of compatible metal, or use an eye or spade (if you want a push-on connection) terminal secured by a screw if you have the room.
Good ideas. I have some 2-56 taps I can use. Thank you.
Don - Specializing in layout DC->DCC conversions
Modeling C&O transition era and steel industries There's Nothing Like Big Steam!
gregc BradenD I got away without using flux until a month ago. It definitely isn't required but I wouldn't go back to soldering without it. I use 60/40 rosin core solder for everything because it just works. are you saying you weren't using rosin core solder up until a month ago? gregc isn't the rosin the flux? Rosin core solder contains a mild flux and is designed to solder parts where flux residue cannot be removed. An example would be electric circuit boards, or electrical connections. In these applications there is often no practical way to clean flux residue after soldering. Rosin flux residue is non-corrosive which eliminates the need for post solder cleaning. The mild nature of rosin core limits its use to copper and brass.
BradenD I got away without using flux until a month ago. It definitely isn't required but I wouldn't go back to soldering without it. I use 60/40 rosin core solder for everything because it just works.
I've always used Rosin core solder. Although it is very mild compared to real flux.