Lead-based solder is preferred for high-reliability electronics (space, nuclear, military, etc.) because it’s easier to rework, easier to verify by visual inspection, and it’s not vulnerable to tin whiskers.
Comment on What percentage of lead gets washed off the fingers of a typical human after handling lead solder?
AndrewZabar@lemmy.world 1 month ago
Is there any reason people still use lead solder? I mean… I use silver for jewelry soldering and I know silver and copper can both easily work well for electronics , so in what application is lead necessary?
ooterness@lemmy.world 1 month ago
Ajen@sh.itjust.works 1 month ago
It’s not necessary, but it has advantages. Namely, it’s easier to work with and melts at lower temperatures (less risk of damaging components and burning yourself). Also, while lead has its risks, they’re easy enough to mitigate.
ikidd@lemmy.world 1 month ago
Because its lovely to work with compared to ROHS solder, and if you’re just a hobbyist, its not an appreciable risk.