Weller blog

Many people have the impression that if they are working with lead-free solder, the need for efficient fume extraction is decreased. But the lead in lead bearing solder alloys is not the main culprit in the creation of dangerous fumes. The fluxes used to facilitate solder reflow are the main contributors to noxious fumes and gasses in the work place.

For operators subjected to these conditions every day, it is very unpleasant to say the least. But it can be much worse, resulting in long-term health problems and the legal responsibilities that follow. Weller fume extraction systems put an end to pollution by reducing fumes either from the ambient area, or directly from the source - the soldering tip.

The Weller WSA350 smoke absorber is an entry-level ambient fume extraction system. It is a low-cost way to direct fumes away from the workspace and through a replaceable carbon-activated filter. It has an absorption capacity of 1.25 m³/min.

The Weller WFE2P fume extraction system utilizes the efficient source extraction fume removal method. A soldering pencil is fitted with a built-in source extraction tube, which is positioned directly over the solder joint during the soldering process. Specially designed soldering pencils are available to work with the WFE2P. Attachments are also available to add fume extraction capability to standard Weller pencils. The WFE2P can accommodate two fume extraction-soldering pencils simultaneously. The efficient three-stage replaceable filter system extracts 99.99% of fumes before they can be released into the environment. The filter system consists of an F7 grade fine dust filter, a main filter consisting of a wide band gas filter (50% activated carbon and 50% puratex), and a HEPA class 13 fine particle filter. The filter lift system allows fast and easy filter replacement. For this reason, source extraction remains the most efficient method of removing noxious fumes and gasses from the workspace.

The Weller FE75 soldering pencil is a powerful 80-watt pencil with the temperature recovery performance necessary for working with lead free solders. It is compatible with the Weller WD Series soldering stations.

A complete line of accessory fume extraction conversion kits is available for easy conversion of your Weller soldering pencil. With these accessories, you can convert your Weller soldering pencil into a source fume extraction pencil that is compatible with the WFE2P fume extraction system.