Velleman VTSS220 Temperature-Controlled Soldering Station

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the Velleman VTSS220 Temperature-Controlled Soldering Station.

Important environmental information: The symbol ♻️ on the device or packaging indicates that disposal of the device after its lifecycle could harm the environment. Do not dispose of the unit (or batteries) as unsorted municipal waste; it should be taken to a specialized company for recycling. Return the device to your distributor or a local recycling service. Respect local environmental rules. If in doubt, contact your local waste disposal authorities.

Thank you for choosing Velleman! Please read this manual thoroughly before putting the device into service. If the device was damaged in transit, do not install or use it and contact your dealer.

Safety Instructions

This device can be used by children aged 8 years and above, and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge, if they are given supervision or instruction concerning the safe use of the device and understand the associated hazards. Children shall not play with the device. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

• ? Read and understand this manual and all safety signs before using this appliance.
• ? Indoor use only. Keep this device away from rain, moisture, splashing and dripping liquids. Never put objects filled with liquids on top of or close to the device.
• ? Always disconnect mains power when the device is not in use or when servicing or maintenance activities are performed. Handle the power cord by the plug only.
• ⚠️ Caution! After switching off, leave the power cord plugged in for a few minutes. When you switch off the unit, the automatic cooling function blows cooling air through the heater pipe for a short period. This protects the heater from damage and extends its lifetime. Do not disconnect the mains plug during this cooling process.
• ⚠️ Do not crimp the power cord and protect it against damage. Warning! If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons to avoid any hazard.
• Ensure the available voltage does not exceed the voltage stated in the specifications.
• Plug the power cord into a suitable, earthed mains outlet.
• ⚡ Risk of electroshock when opening the cover. Touching live wires can cause life-threatening electroshocks. Do not disassemble or open the housing yourself. Have the device repaired by qualified personnel.
• Do not operate the device with wet hands.
• Never use the device on live electronic circuits. Ensure power to the work piece is cut and capacitors are discharged.
• ? Do not use near inflammable products or in explosive atmospheres. Heat can cause fire to inflammable products even when they are not in sight. Only use in properly ventilated rooms.
• ? Incorrect use may cause fire. Do not touch the shafts, tips, or hot air gun as this can cause serious burns. Keep the tips and hot air away from the body, clothes, or other flammable material. Do not aim the hot air gun at the eyes. Use gloves and/or heat-resistant tools to pick up the PCB assembly to prevent burns. Always return the irons and gun to their stands between uses; always let the device cool down after use and before storage.
• Place the device on a level, stable, and fire-resistant working surface.
• ⚠️ WARNING! This tool must be placed on its stand when not in use; do not leave the tool unattended when switched on.
• ☠️ Do not inhale solder fumes. The vapours released during soldering are harmful. Therefore, use the soldering station only in well-ventilated areas or under an exhaust hood (solder fume extractor). Dispose of fume filters and solder residue in accordance with local regulations.

How to Solder

• File off any dirt, rust, or paint on the parts to be soldered.
• Heat the parts with the soldering iron.
• Apply resin-based solder to the part and melt it with the soldering iron. NOTE: Apply a little solder paste before applying non-resin-based solder.
• Wait for the solder to cool and harden before moving the soldered part.
• ⚠️ CAUTION: Handle a heated soldering iron with extreme care as high temperatures may cause burns.
• The soldering iron may produce smoke on first use due to a dried heating element. This is normal and should last for approximately 10 minutes.
• Never file the soldering tip.
• Use a soldering iron stand to avoid burns.
• The temperature of the soldering iron will drop if used without the tip.
• Let the soldering iron cool after use.
• The mains cable of this device should not be replaced. Discard the device if the power cable is damaged.
• Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be performed by children without supervision.

Overview

Refer to the illustrations on page 2 of this manual.

• 1. Display
• 2. Temperature unit (°C/°F)
• 3. Increase temperature
• 4. Decrease temperature

Operating Temperature

The most common soldering alloys used in the electronics industry consist of 60% tin and 40% lead. The operating temperature of this solder type is detailed below and can vary by manufacturer. However, to meet RoHS requirements, leaded solders are no longer allowed and are replaced by lead-free solders that require a working temperature approximately 30 °C (54 °F) higher.

A good joint is assured if the iron's operating temperature is set within the parameters suitable for the type of solder being used. If the temperature is too low, the solder will flow too slowly. If the temperature is too high, the flux in the solder may burn, causing dense white smoke. This can result in a dry joint or permanent damage to the PCB.

Operation

1. Connect the soldering iron to the station. Place the iron in its stand.
2. Connect the station to the mains and switch it on.
3. Select the temperature units and set the desired temperature.
4. Wait for the iron to warm up and reach the desired temperature.
5. You can start soldering once the soldering iron has reached the target temperature.

Notes:

• Always replace the iron in its holder when not in use.
• The station will automatically switch off if the internal temperature becomes too high. It will switch on again once the temperature drops to a safe level.
• Do not apply the soldering iron to the same spot for an extended period.
• Never leave the device unattended when switched on.
• Switch off after use.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Keep ventilation openings clear, clean, and dust-free at all times.
• If the device runs erratically or an unusual situation occurs during use, immediately switch off the device and unplug it from the mains. Inspect the device before using it again. Repairs must only be carried out by a qualified technician.
• If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified technician.
• Wipe with a damp cloth to keep it looking new. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents.
• Clean the device and accessories before storing.

Storing:

• Store the device, its accessories, and this user manual in the original packaging.
• Always store in a cool and dry place.

Technical Specifications

• Power supply: 220-240 V~, 50 Hz
• Power consumption: 60 W (max. 90 W)
• Temperature range: 50-480 °C
• Dimensions: 120 x 100 x 150 mm
• Weight: 2 kg

Use this device with original accessories only. Velleman nv cannot be held responsible for damage or injury resulting from incorrect use of this device. For more information about this product and the latest version of this manual, please visit our website www.velleman.eu. The information in this manual is subject to change without prior notice.

Copyright Notice: The copyright to this manual is owned by Velleman nv. All worldwide rights reserved. No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or otherwise without the prior written consent of the copyright holder.

Multilingual Sections Summary

This manual is also available in Dutch (Handleiding), French (Mode d'emploi), Spanish (Manual del Usuario), German (Bedienungsanleitung), Polish (Instrukcja Obsługi), and Portuguese (Manual do Utilizador).