Hi,

I've had this crazy idea bouncing around in my head that it may be
possible to solder SMD devices using one of the small lighter fluid
gas soldering irons that have a hot air attachment.

I would plan to use this method for producing prototype boards only.
Solder paste would be placed on the pads, then left to cure for about
an hour at 45 degrees C, then the hot air from the blow torch would be
applied to each component in turn.

Has anybody tried this. and if so how successful is it?

My other option is to construct a reflow oven, using a fan-forced
convection oven (toaster oven). I've heard the thermal characteristics
are close enough to  provide very acceptable results.

Regards,

Peter.
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_______________________________________________________________________
Peter Homann   email: peterh@adacel.com.au       Work : +61 3 9596-2991
Adacel Pty Ltd                                   Fax  : +61 3 9596-2960
250 Bay St, Brighton 3186, VIC, AUSTRALIA      Mobile :     014 025-925