A desoldering pump works by creating suction to remove molten solder from a circuit board connection, allowing you to separate components. There are primarily two types: plunger (or spring-loaded) and bulb. Here's a breakdown of how each works:
Plunger-Type Desoldering Pump (Solder Sucker)
This is the more common and often more powerful type. It relies on a spring-loaded piston to generate suction.
Operation:
- Preparation: The user pushes down on a plunger located on the top or end of the pump. This compresses a spring inside the cylinder and locks the plunger in the down position.
- Heating the Solder: The solder joint needs to be heated using a soldering iron until the solder is completely molten.
- Positioning the Nozzle: The nozzle (typically made of Teflon or similar heat-resistant material) of the desoldering pump is placed as close as possible to the molten solder.
- Triggering the Suction: A button (or trigger) on the pump is pressed. This releases the locked plunger, and the compressed spring forces the piston upwards rapidly.
- Sucking the Solder: The rapid upward movement of the piston creates a vacuum or suction, which pulls the molten solder into the pump's cylinder or collection chamber.
- Ejection: After the solder cools within the pump, it can be ejected by pressing the plunger again to force the solder out. Some models have easy-clean mechanisms to remove the solidified solder.
Key Features:
- Stronger Suction: Generally provides more suction than bulb-type pumps.
- Durable: Typically more robust and longer-lasting.
- Requires Resetting: Needs to be reset (plunger compressed and locked) before each use.
Bulb-Type Desoldering Pump
This type uses a squeezable rubber bulb to create suction.
Operation:
- Preparation: Squeeze the rubber bulb to expel the air.
- Positioning: Place the nozzle of the pump near the molten solder joint while keeping the bulb squeezed.
- Releasing the Bulb: Quickly release the bulb. This creates a vacuum as the bulb tries to return to its original shape.
- Sucking the Solder: The vacuum draws the molten solder into the bulb.
- Ejection: To remove the collected solder, point the nozzle downwards and squeeze the bulb to expel the solidified solder.
Key Features:
- Simpler to Use: Easier to operate, especially in confined spaces.
- Weaker Suction: Generates less suction compared to plunger-type pumps.
- Less Durable: The rubber bulb can degrade over time.
- Continuous Operation: Can be used repeatedly without needing to be reset between each suction.
Summary Table
| Feature | Plunger-Type (Solder Sucker) | Bulb-Type |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Strength | Stronger | Weaker |
| Durability | Higher | Lower |
| Operation | Two-handed, Requires Reset | One-handed, Continuous |
| Complexity | More Complex | Simpler |
| Common Usage | Larger components, larger solder joints | Smaller components, easier access |
In essence, both types of desoldering pumps utilize suction to remove molten solder, with the plunger type generating suction through a spring-loaded piston and the bulb type through the expansion of a squeezed rubber bulb. Choosing the right type depends on the specific desoldering task and personal preference.
