Can I use a steel sponge as a soldering sponge? (SOLVED -> better not)
UPDATE: the commenters' verdict is unanimous: this is not a good idea, because it will damage the iron tip of the soldering iron. Thanks everyone!
These sort of sponges are sold for cleaning the tip of soldering irons:
Now, maybe it's an odd question -- but is there any reason not to use one of these kitchen scrubby things instead?
They are way easier to get, plus they are cheaper.
I'm wondering mainly:
- can you think of a reason why it could be dangerous to use the stainless steel one? (like, poisonous fumes or something)
- would it hurt the soldering iron tip?
It's not good for the iron tip. You should use a brass sponge.
it is not dangerous in any way since it is just metal and metal oxides that do not mobilize at the temps you use for soldering. it is not recommended because the protective layer on most modern soldering irons is made from iron (not steel) and iron is softer than steel.
soldering iron is made from iron, got it..
So, all I need to do is find a soldering steel 🤔
here is a schematic diagram with the structure: https://www.thermaltronics.com/datasheet/M8SB276#item38791
the core of soldering irons has been copper for a long time.
Thanks, that's very helpful
"Soldering steel: for when you want to weld something really, really small."
Are you certain? I seem to recall that steel wool burns. I’m not sure how different the pictured scrubber is from steel wool pads.
https://www.livescience.com/60764-watch-steel-wool-burn.html
a spark is typically hotter than 800°C while soldering above 400°C just isnt something you see for electronics. (brazing is another matter though)
Good point. My gut tells me that soldering temperatures won't be enough to cause this (the article talks about a spark). Anyway, not something I want to try out while soldering 😅
It will destroy the soldering iron tip's plating. This will quickly result in it being unusable for soldering.
It's not dangerous. It won't emit any toxic fumes as long as it's just a stainless steel scrubber & not one pre-impregnated with soap like a brillo pad. But since it'll destroy the iron's tip it'll quickly be more expensive than brass wool.