CHAPTER 21 ■ SOLDERING EQUIPMENT■ Caution Don’t ever rest, set down, or store the soldering iron in any place but the manufacturer’s
specifically designed holder. The soldering iron is hot enough to start a fire, even after power is disconnected.
Soldering Sponge
During soldering, the soldering iron tip coats in oxides and cakes with contaminants. As this occurs, it
becomes more difficult for the tip to effectively transfer heat to the metal joints and solder.
The soldering stand usually includes a special sponge (see Figure 21-7) for cleaning the soldering iron’s
tip. Only use a sponge specifically designed for soldering iron tips, as other sponges may melt or give off
fumes when the hot tip is applied.
Figure 21-6. Soldering stand with metal coils to safely hold a hot soldering iron
Figure 21-7. Moistened sponge for cleaning a soldering iron’s tip
The sponge should be heavily moistened, but not quite soggy, with distilled water. Ordinary tap water
works just fine, but contains impurities that reduce the amount of time between tip cleanings. Don’t put
chemicals or soaps into the sponge or on the soldering iron tip, as the residues will remain in the solder
joints and on the tip as the chemicals are burnt off.