Attaching a Tube Hinge to a Box

by Ken Sharpe
(U.K)

Hi,

I am having major problems when it comes to attaching a tube hinge to a box. My method right or wrong has been to firstly tack the tube to the edge of the box lid. Then I attempt to bead solder along both sides of the tube hinge, this is where I run into all manner of problems, with the solder running from one side to the other. I have no problems creating a good bead around the other edges of the box. Any help appreciated.

Ken

Answer

It's probably a combination of a too hot iron and staying in one spot too long.

If you're using a Weller 100 watt iron use a lower temperature tip, or if it's another brand iron turn your controller down.

Don't stay in one spot too long. Get solder on there and move on. You can come back to finish up when the first layer has cooled.

A technique that I use is to wet an old wash cloth or towel, squeeze it out so it's not dripping, then hold it under the area where you have run through. It will stop the solder from running through. It's best to solder on the back side first. Wait until the solder is cool before you work on the front side.

When you're soldering brass tube, be sure to push a round toothpick in each end before you solder. That will keep the solder from running in the open ends.