What is soldering?

Soldering refers to the process of joining different types of metals together using a filler metal known as solder. The purpose of using solder is to solidify a strong bond between two metal surfaces using heat and a low melting point.

Industries that use solder

Solder is commonly used in the following industries:

• Electronics
• Roofing
• Automotive
• Plumbing
• Jewellery
• Stained glass

What are soldering fumes?

During the process of soldering, pressure and heat produce metal vapours that turn into a gas which is then released into the air.

Are soldering fumes toxic?

Depending on the metals used during the soldering process, most solder fumes can be toxic and an occupational health hazard to anyone who comes in contact. When hand soldering, fumes rise vertically which can enter the human body through the nose and mouth when breathing. Long term exposure can cause discomfort and ill health, such as: · Asthma, shortness of breath, chest pain · Irritation to the nose, mouth, eyes · Chronic bronchitis, coughing, wheezing · Hypersensitivity, headaches, dizziness

How can a soldering fume extractor help?

As soldering fumes can be detrimental to employee health – PPE, proper ventilation and fume extraction is recommended for protection. A soldering fume extraction system such as the Fumecube can help to minimise exposure to these harmful fumes and reduce health hazards. The Fumecube series is designed to effectively remove hazardous fumes that are produced by hand soldering. Users of these fume extraction system are only required to set the appropriate airflow upon installation, making the Fumecube series easy to use, inexpensive to run and improves health and safety in the workplace. We also offer larger fume extraction systems such as the iFume 400i Orange or the 2000i, for the reflow soldering and wave soldering process.

Fume extractors for soldering fumes

At Purex, we provide an excellent level of service and support – including our 24-hour technical support service, start-to-end projects and response times. Get in touch with our expert team today to find out more about our fume extractors, or learn more about how Purex can help with your fume extraction needs.