Solder

Solders are metal alloys with low melting points that are used to join metals together. They are mixed with flux, a reducing agent that removes impurities from the points of contact in order to improve electrical conductivity. Soldering applies heat to metal parts and causes the resulting joint to draw in the softened solder through capillary action. After the metal cools, the resulting joint is not as strong as the base material, but provides adequate strength, electrical conductivity, and water resistance for specific applications. Many soldering techniques use a hot-air soldering tool, an electric soldering iron or gun, an infrared (IR) lamp, or a brazing torch. Metal parts can also be soldered together by passing them over a bulk container of melted solder. Wave soldering and reflow soldering are methods for attaching components to printed circuit boards (PCBs).

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