Science Fair Project Ideas, Answers, & Tools. How to Solder, tips and tricks. What Is Soldering and How Do You Use Solder Tools? Soldering (pronounced "soddering") involves a material called solder that melts when placed on a hot object; the melted solder cools and forms a bond between two items. Your most basic soldering tool is a soldering iron with a soldering station. A soldering station holds your hot soldering iron and keeps your solder and tip cleaner organized. Purchase a small 15- to 30-watt soldering iron made for electronics and a soldering station. Also buy thin .032-inch-diameter rosin-core solder. You can purchase these at your local Radio Shack and other places. Don't use a big soldering iron and the big 1/4-inch, acid-core solder used for plumbing, which are typically found at home improvement stores. Figure 1 shows the basic process of soldering.
Figure 1: Soldering requires the right tools and a little skill. Figure 2: Here's soldering, close up. How to solder The best technique for soldering is simple, so repeat this mantra: Heat the metal, not the solder. When you need to undo solder mistakes. Electronics Tips: Soldering Techniques. Soldering tips and tricks. Fine Component Soldering.