You may be looking for a soldering iron. You have so many options available, including those with stations or the butane variety. You get multiple advantages with whichever one you choose.
Butane soldering irons have specific attributes that make them a favorite choice for many people. You can adjust the heat range, and the process of using them is easy. They are portable because you do not have cord limitations. It makes them ideal for using wherever you are.
Since you do not require a power source, you can use them outdoors or indoors, depending on your location. You can control the amount of heat while soldering less energy wastage. The small size makes them convenient for use in tiny spaces. If, for example, you are putting in a car stereo, you will find it very convenient to use.
In our article, we will show you how to light a butane soldering iron. We will also share some important tips you need to have in mind when using them.
Lighting your Butane soldering iron
The instructions below will depend on the model you buy. They, however, do have basic similarities. You will, therefore, find the steps applicable to most.
Take note of the following parts of the soldering iron.
- There is a lever that turns the soldering iron on and off. It is also the lever that will control the fuel flow and temperature. It moves in a sideways motion.
- Middle Lever for igniting, hence eliminating the need for a matchbox. It moves in an up-down position.
Fueling the Butane Soldering Iron
Start by fueling your soldering iron. You can buy butane fuel from the hardware. To fill the canister, add the fuel from the refill port at the bottom. Simply upend the fuel canister into the cavity using the refill tip and squeeze. You will know it is full when some fuel bubbles to the top.
It is important not to overfill the soldering iron. You will cause it to spit the flame, which can be dangerous for you. Immediately it starts to overflow, stop the filling process.
Do not put it on immediately when you finish fueling. You must let the gas stabilize before you start using it.
Lighting the Soldering Iron
- Turn the regulator from the off position. You will be able to choose levels depending on the heat you want. Turning the lever to the left or towards the negative sign will lower the flame’s heat or strength.
- Use the igniting lever to light your soldering iron. Some of the soldering irons have safety locks to avoid accidental lighting. When you hold down the ignition button, remember to also release the safety lock.
- You will ignite the soldering iron when it is in the middle position. Do note; butane soldering irons heat up really quickly. In about 20 seconds, it should be hot enough to solder whatever you are working on.
- To turn it off, bring the lever back to the down position. Ensure that you switch off the soldering iron properly so that you stop the gas flow. The heat, together with the flowing gas, may ignite the soldering iron, which could lead to accidents.
- Wait for at least 2 minutes before you try touching the tip if you want to dismantle it before storage. That time is sufficient to allow it to cool down properly.
- Use the stand to rest the soldering iron when you are not using it.
- Remember to clean off the tip when you finish working.
Using Your Butane Soldering Iron as a Hot Blower
You can also use your butane soldering iron as a hot blower. All you need to do is detach the soldering tip and follow the steps we have highlighted above to ignite and use your hot blower.
Using Your Butane Soldering Iron as a Pencil Torch
Butane soldering irons provide so much functionality. One is the ability to use it as a torch. Remove the soldering tip, and put in the metal sleeve. You will then use the same igniting steps to put on the torch.
Tips for Using Your Butane Soldering Iron
There are certain operational tips you need to have in mind when using your butane soldering iron. Such include:-
- Do not cover the exhaust vent. Make sure it is facing upwards; otherwise, you may end up damaging your tabletop.
- Avoid concentrating the heat in one place. Switching from side to side will give you a better finish.
- Do not fuel the soldering iron when the flame is on or still hot. Allow for sufficient cooling time before repeating the process we have highlighted above.
- When in use, do not hold the soldering iron in an upward position.
- Use the butane soldering iron in an area with adequate ventilation. Avoid using it in places with lead-based paint as well.
- In as much as you can use the soldering iron outdoors, do not use it in very windy areas. The flame could blow towards you and cause severe burns.
- Ensure you wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and goggles when using very hot flames.
- Be careful not to drop the butane soldering iron.
- Ensure there are no flammable materials within the vicinity. When igniting it, face it away from your hands, clothing, or face.
- Do not touch the tip when soldering. It gets very hot and can cause serious burns.
- Do not speed up the cooling process by using water. You will end up causing repairable damage in your soldering iron.
Final Thoughts
We have shared with you how to light a Butane Soldering Iron in our article above. We have given some tips on how to use it safely to avoid any accident. Butane soldering irons are convenient due to their portability. Since they do not use electricity, you do not have limitations on where you can use them.
Their small size makes them convenient for use in cramped spaces. Most importantly, they are easy to use and are ideal even for beginners. Remember that you must read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use them.
