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In copper foil crafting, a light handy soldering iron equipped
with a tip that does not pit is desirable. You can use any iron,
large or small, a soldering gun, or even dime store irons, but
they are not very handy and it is difficult to obtain the temperature
adjustment needed. If you do more than just simple projects,
purchase a good, small soldering iron, such as a 60, 80 or 100
watt Esico; they have interchangeable tips that are plated with
iron, then a special alloy is overplated so they won't pit. A
good lightweight iron is a pleasure to work with a 1/4"
to 3/8" diameter pyramid type tip is handier for copper
foil work, a chisel point type tip can also be used. Be sure
the tip is tinned. The tip should be wiped occasionally on a
wet sponge or cloth to remove oxides. Rub the tip on a solid
sal ammoniac block to retin.
Soldering Flux
For flux, use a mild water soluble flux. Flux cleans the copper
foil allowing the solder to stick. Apply with a small brush to
prepare the foil so the solder will adhere.
Solder
Solder should be 1/8" solid core in a 60% tin and 40% lead
alloy. This alloy becomes liquid at approximately 370 degrees
and is solid at about 360 degrees. It is recommended for all
lamp shades and other stained glass work. A 50% tin and 50% lead
alloy can also be used, it has a higher melting point, around
425 degrees.
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