What is a solder fume extractor?

Solder fume extractors are used to make workspaces healthier and safer. An extractor will remove most of the fumes from the air before they have the chance to enter the human body.

Please note: Soldering activities generate toxic fumes and dust particles. Mostly, these come from the heating of solder flux. Excessive exposure to such particulates can lead to serious health problems. These include skin irritation, asthma, nervous system damage and even cancer. To avoid having excessive exposure to toxic fumes and dust particles it is recommended to use a solder fume extractor.

How does a solder fume extractor work?

A solder fume extractor works by filtering out harmful particles from the air. The device creates suction through an internal fan. This draws the air into its filtration system. The filtered air is then released back into the work environment, purified from contaminants.

The most important part of an extractor is the filter. This is the part that captures the hazardous particles from the air. A good extractor will have a high-quality filter, to catch more particles and make the air cleaner. Also important is that higher-quality filters will not need to be replaced as often. This will lower maintenance costs and needs.

What types of solder fume extractors are available?

A solder fume extractor should be chosen based on the workspace needs. Each setting will require a different level of filtration. The type of work being performed and the space available should be the main considerations when choosing an extractor.

There are five main types of extractors:

• Soldering tip extractors. The smallest devices. They are connected directly to the soldering iron. A suction pump and filter extract the fumes that are generated at the solder joint.
• Cowl fume extractors. Designed for single-user workstations. These extractors are ideal for low volumes of hand soldering. They are mounted directly on the workbench. The fan catches the fumes before they reach the operator’s breathing level.
• Arm extraction units. Versatile devices, ideal for most workspaces. The extracting arms capture fumes and dust at their origin. The particles are then filtered and expelled. The arms are flexible, allowing to directly cover sources of fumes. These units are lightweight and easily movable. They can fit in small spaces.
• Digital fume extractors. These systems offer improved control on the extraction process. All functions are fully automatic. The user just has to set the airflow level on installation. Electronic flow control maintains a constant extraction rate, even if the filter blocks. Digital fume extractors are more expensive, but they are an excellent investment.
• Downdraught benches. These devices are self-contained workbenches with integrated dust and fume extractor systems. The bench collects contaminants while the users work. Fumes and dust are drawn down through the bench’s surface, into the internal filters. Clean air is returned to the room. Ideal for heavy duty workshops.

Conro Electronics, as a leading supplier of materials and tools in the electronic manufacturing industry, offers a choice of solder fume extractors form major manufacturers such as BOFA.

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