What is a Desoldering Pump?

A desoldering pump is a handheld device that uses suction to remove molten solder from a circuit board. It consists of a spring-loaded plunger inside a cylinder with a nozzle at one end. When the plunger is released, it creates a sudden vacuum that sucks up the molten solder, leaving the component leads free.

Desoldering pumps come in various sizes and designs, but they all work on the same basic principle. They are an essential tool for anyone who needs to desolder components frequently or work with large amounts of solder.

Advantages of Using a Desoldering Pump

There are several advantages to using a desoldering pump over other desoldering methods:

1. Speed: Desoldering pumps can remove solder very quickly, making the desoldering process much faster than using desoldering braid or a soldering iron alone.

2. Efficiency: Desoldering pumps can remove large amounts of solder in a single operation, which is especially useful for desoldering multi-pin components or large solder joints.

3. Control: With a desoldering pump, you have precise control over where the solder is removed from, reducing the risk of damaging nearby components or traces.

4. Cost-effective: Desoldering pumps are relatively inexpensive compared to other desoldering tools like desoldering stations or hot air rework stations.

Types of Desoldering Pumps

There are two main types of desoldering pumps: manual and electric.

Manual Desoldering Pumps

Manual desoldering pumps are the most common type. They are operated by hand and require no external power source. To use a manual desoldering pump, you first press the plunger down to compress the spring, then release it to create the suction.

Manual desoldering pumps are usually made of plastic or metal and come in various sizes. They are lightweight, portable, and easy to use, making them a popular choice for hobbyists and field technicians.

Electric Desoldering Pumps

Electric desoldering pumps are powered by electricity and offer some advantages over manual pumps. They typically have a higher suction power and can operate continuously without the need to manually compress the plunger.

Electric desoldering pumps are usually larger and heavier than manual pumps and require a power source, making them less portable. They are more expensive than manual pumps but offer greater efficiency and ease of use for high-volume desoldering work.

How to Use a Desoldering Pump

Using a desoldering pump is relatively simple, but there are a few key steps to follow for best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Desoldering Pump

Before using the desoldering pump, make sure it is clean and in good working condition. If the nozzle is clogged with old solder, clean it out with a wire brush or a cleaning tool provided with the pump.

For manual pumps, press the plunger down to compress the spring and lock it in place. For electric pumps, make sure the power is on and the pump is ready to use.

Step 2: Heat the Solder Joint

Using a soldering iron, heat the solder joint you want to desolder. Apply the tip of the iron to the joint and wait for the solder to melt completely. This usually takes a few seconds, depending on the size of the joint and the power of your soldering iron.

Step 3: Apply the Desoldering Pump

Once the solder is molten, quickly place the nozzle of the desoldering pump over the joint and release the plunger (for manual pumps) or activate the suction (for electric pumps). The pump will suck up the molten solder, leaving the component leads free.

Step 4: Clean the Nozzle

After each use, clean the nozzle of the desoldering pump to prevent clogging. You can do this by heating up the nozzle with your soldering iron and then using a wire brush or cleaning tool to remove any remaining solder.

Step 5: Repeat as Necessary

Depending on the size of the solder joint and the efficiency of your desoldering pump, you may need to repeat the process several times to remove all the solder. Be patient and take your time to ensure a clean desolder.

Tips for Effective Desoldering

Here are some additional tips to help you get the best results when using a desoldering pump:

1. Use a high-quality soldering iron: A good soldering iron with a fine tip will make it easier to heat the solder joint quickly and precisely.

2. Use the right size nozzle: Choose a nozzle size that matches the size of the solder joint you’re desoldering. A nozzle that’s too small won’t be able to suck up all the solder, while a nozzle that’s too large may damage nearby components.

3. Apply heat and suction quickly: The key to successful desoldering is to apply heat and suction as quickly as possible. If you wait too long, the solder will cool and harden, making it harder to remove.

4. Use flux: Applying a small amount of flux to the solder joint before desoldering can help the solder melt more easily and improve the efficiency of the desoldering process.

5. Practice on scrap boards: If you’re new to desoldering, practice on some scrap circuit boards first to get a feel for the process and develop your technique.

Choosing the Right Desoldering Pump

When choosing a desoldering pump, there are several factors to consider:

Size and Portability

Consider the size and weight of the desoldering pump, especially if you’ll be using it in the field or traveling with it. Manual pumps are generally more portable than electric pumps.

Suction Power

Look for a desoldering pump with strong suction power to ensure efficient solder removal. Electric pumps typically have higher suction power than manual pumps.

Nozzle Size and Shape

Make sure the desoldering pump comes with a variety of nozzle sizes to accommodate different solder joint sizes. Some pumps also have angled nozzles for easier access to tight spaces.

Durability and Build Quality

Choose a desoldering pump with a durable construction and high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting performance. Look for pumps with replaceable parts, such as nozzles and O-rings, in case of wear and tear.

Price and Value

Desoldering pumps vary in price from a few dollars for basic manual pumps to over a hundred dollars for high-end electric pumps. Consider your budget and desoldering needs when choosing a pump that offers the best value for your money.

Here’s a comparison table of some popular desoldering pumps:

Model	Type	Suction Power	Nozzle Sizes	Price Range
Engineer SS-02	Manual	High	1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm	$15 – $25
Hakko FR-301	Manual	High	1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm	$20 – $30
Tenma 21-8240	Electric	Very High	1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm	$100 – $150
Aoyue 474A+	Electric	High	1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm	$50 – $80

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

To keep your desoldering pump in good working condition, regular maintenance is important. Here are some maintenance tips:

1. Clean the nozzle regularly with a wire brush or cleaning tool to prevent clogging.

2. Replace worn or damaged parts, such as O-rings and nozzles, as needed.

3. Store the desoldering pump in a clean, dry place when not in use.

4. For electric pumps, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance.

If you encounter problems with your desoldering pump, here are some troubleshooting tips:

1. If the pump is not suctioning properly, check for clogs in the nozzle or air vents and clean them out.

2. If the plunger is stuck or not compressing fully, disassemble the pump and clean the interior components.

3. If the pump is still not working after cleaning and maintenance, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a desoldering pump on surface-mount components?

Yes, desoldering pumps can be used on surface-mount components, but it may be more challenging than through-hole components. Use a fine-tipped soldering iron and a small nozzle for best results.

2. How often should I replace the nozzle on my desoldering pump?

The frequency of nozzle replacement depends on how often you use the pump and the type of solder you’re desoldering. As a general rule, replace the nozzle if you notice a decrease in suction power or if the nozzle becomes damaged or clogged.

3. Can I use a desoldering pump on lead-free solder?

Yes, desoldering pumps can be used on lead-free solder, but it may require higher heat and longer melting times compared to leaded solder.

4. What should I do if my desoldering pump is not suctioning properly?

First, check for clogs in the nozzle or air vents and clean them out with a wire brush or cleaning tool. If the problem persists, try disassembling the pump and cleaning the interior components. If the pump still doesn’t work, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

5. Can I use a desoldering pump to remove solder from plated through-holes?

Yes, desoldering pumps can be used to remove solder from plated through-holes, but it may require multiple passes to remove all the solder. Use a larger nozzle size and apply heat and suction quickly for best results.

Conclusion

Desoldering pumps are an essential tool for anyone who works with electronics. They offer a fast, efficient, and cost-effective way to remove solder from circuit boards, making repairs and modifications easier and more precise. By choosing the right desoldering pump for your needs and following the proper techniques and maintenance procedures, you can ensure successful desoldering results every time. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, investing in a quality desoldering pump is a smart choice for your electronics toolkit.