cleaning a soldering iron tip

[PRNDL]

My soldering iron tip started out nice and clean, but is now dark with regular use. I thought this might be a good forum topic.

What's the best way to clean a soldering iron tip?

Is there regular maintenance that helps keep these things working great?

Thanks!

[sluckey]

I've been using Weller WTCPT soldering stations for about 35 years and highly recommend them. A bit pricey, but well worth it. They use a special magnetically temp controlled tip that requires very little cleaning or maintenance. Just keep a wet sponge available and wipe before use every time you pick it up. Filing or sanding is a no-no for these tips.

I first saw these type irons/stations when doing Depot level repairs at Warner Robins AFB. I've never used another type iron since. Tips last for years if you only melt quality solder. Burning nylon rope or plastics will destroy the tip though.

Here's a pic and operators manual that has tip cleaning info for this particular tip. I've long since forgot about filing, sanding, and otherwise cleaning more conventional tips.

http://www.cooperhandtools.com/onlinecatalog/images/WTCPT_300.jpg

http://www.cooperhandtools.com/onlinecatalog/Operating_Instructions/WTCPT_OI_PL.pdf

[FYL]

What's the best way to clean a soldering iron tip?

Gently scrap the cold tip with an X-Acto blade and/or a Scotch Brite pad -don't remove any plating. Clean with a wet rag the hot tip, wet it with solder before use, clean during use with a wet sponge.

[FYL]

I've been using Weller WTCPT soldering stations for about 35 years and highly recommend them.

+1, Weller manufacture some of the best soldering stations. Like Fluke meters and other high quality products they are actually cheaper in the long run than the average Asian crapola on sale at Fry's.

BTW, the Magnastat line is fine if you use only one type of solder (or like to change tips), if not, a variable temp station such as the WES-51 is a must.

[jjasilli]

I think quality is an issue.  I've been using a Hako 936 station for over 1 yr now and really like it; it's a pleasure to use.  I got it with a number of tips, but never changed the original tip.  I use it with a wet sponge, and clean the tip on the sponge occasionally during use.  When I'm done with a work session (I'm just a hobbyist) I give the tip a good cleaning on the wet sponge; then rinse out the sponge.  The tip still looks & works like new (the sponge doesn't look too bad either  :) ).  I've never even had to re-tin it.  

Before that I used cheap radio shack irons.  The tips would burn out quickly, and then not take a re-tinning.  Then you could file the tip down to fresh metal and re-tin it, or use a new tip.  But the tips would always have inconsistent temperatures and cold spots.  All in all a very frustrating experience.  

[TubeGeek]

I don't like the wet sponge because it lowers the temp. of the tip.

I now use a ball of stainless steel strands in a jar to clean the tip of my iron. It works perfectly and I couldn't imagine soldering without it now.  I get them at the grocery store.  Trust me, once you try it you'll never use a sponge again.  Just make sure you get the thinner stranded balls, not the thick stranded ones.

[birt]

a lot of people seem to forget to tin the tip at first use so there is allways solder on the tip. and with second use it is black and solder won't stick to it...