SMD Soldering – How to Desolder and Solder SMD Components

by | Last Updated On February 14, 2025

Learn How to Desolder and Solder SMD Components by Hand using Soldering Iron and Hot Air Rework Station

Surface Mount Devices (SMD) are widely used components in most modern consumer electronics and gadgets due to their compact size and performance benefits. SMD soldering and desoldering by hand can be challenging, especially for beginners. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can perform the job just like a professional. In this comprehensive guide, we will Learn How to Desolder and Solder SMD Components by Hand using Soldering Iron and Hot Air Rework Station.

What is SMD Soldering and Desoldering?

SMD Desoldering is the process to safely and efficiently remove Surface Mount IC from a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) without damaging the surrounding components. It is done by hand using Hot Air SMD Rework Station, Flux, Desoldering Wick, Heat Resistant Kapton Tape and IC Pick-Up Tool.

SMD Soldering refers to the process of attaching SMD Components to a printed circuit board (PCB). It is done by hand using a Good Quality Soldering Iron with suitable Tip, No-Clean Flux and Good Quality Solder Wire.

Tools Required for SMD Soldering and Desoldering

Here is a list of essential tools and soldering material and their uses for SMD soldering and desoldering:

# Tool Use
1. Soldering Iron For soldering components to the PCB.
2. Hot Air SMD Rework Station For melting solder paste and safely desoldering SMD Components using hot air.
3. Solder Wire For manually soldering components / IC to the PCB using soldering iron.
4. Solder Paste For manually soldering components / IC to the PCB using SMD Rework Station.
5. Flux Helps in cleaning and preparing the surface for soldering.
6. Desoldering Wick Helps to remove excess solder from joints.
7. Heat Resistant Tape For protecting adjacent components from getting damaged.
8. Tweezers To handle small SMD components.
9. Magnifying Glass Helps to see small components clearly while soldering and desoldering.

Video: SMD Soldering and Desoldering

Learn How to Solder SMD Components by Hand using Soldering Iron in this step-by-step guide. This complete Surface Mount Desoldering and Soldering Video covers all essential techniques, tools, and tips for precise and effective SMD soldering at Home or at Workplace.

How to Desolder SMD Components – Step-by-Step Guide

Desoldering SMD components requires some practice, precision and care to avoid damaging the PCB or the component. Below are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Cover the Surrounding Area and Components

Cover the surrounding area of the PCB and the adjacent components using solder mask or heat resistant tape such as kapton tape. This step is very important to protect these components when you apply hot air to the target IC to be removed.

Step 2: Prepare the PCB

Before starting the desoldering process, clean the area around the SMD / IC using a liquid flux or flux pen. Flux helps in cleaning and preparing the surface for soldering and and desoldering and prevents oxidation.

Step 3: Use a Hot Air SMD Rework Station

Set your hot air SMD rework station to a temperature between 300°C and 350°C, depending on the component’s size. Focus the hot air nozzle on the SMD component to heat the solder joints evenly. Once the solder melts, use tweezers to gently lift the component off the board.

Step 4: Clean the Pads

After removing the component, use a desoldering braid or solder wick to clean any excess solder from the PCB pads. Apply a small amount of flux to the braid, press it onto the pads with your soldering iron, and let it absorb the solder.

Step 5: Inspect the PCB

Check for any damage to the PCB, such as lifted pads or traces. If necessary, apply a solder mask or use conductive pen to repair minor damage.

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How to Solder SMD Components

Once you have removed the old damaged IC, you may need to solder a new one in place. Follow these Steps to Replace and Solder the New SMD Component:

Step 1: Apply Solder Paste

Apply a small amount of solder paste onto the cleaned pads where the SMD component will be soldered.

Step 2: Place the Component

Using fine-tipped tweezers, carefully position the SMD component onto the pads, ensuring proper alignment.

Step 3: Solder the New Component / IC

If you are using a hot air rework station, apply hot air at the same temperature (300°C – 350°C) to the component. The solder paste will melt, bonding the component to the PCB. Alternatively, you can use a soldering iron to solder each lead of the component manually by hand. Make sure to apply some flux before soldering with iron.

NOTE: Lead-Free Solder needs increased temperature.

Step 4: Inspect the Solder Joints

Finally, after the solder has cooled, inspect each joint under a magnifying glass. The joints should be shiny and smooth without any excess solder. If necessary, use a solder wick to remove any solder bridges or excess solder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid during SMD Soldering and Desoldering

Mistake How to Avoid
Overheating the PCB Use temperature-controlled equipment to avoid excessive heat.
Solder Bridges Apply minimal solder and use flux to prevent bridges.
Poor Component Alignment Use tweezers and steady hands for precise placement before heating.
Lifting PCB Pads Be gentle while desoldering and use appropriate heat levels.
Cold Solder Joints Make sure that the solder has fully melted and flowed around the lead.

Tips for Successful SMD Soldering and Desoldering

  1. Use Good Quality Tools: Always to use good-quality and reliable tools. Goot soldering iron and hot air SMD rework stations and trusted and reliable. Cheaper tools may not offer the precision required for SMD work. Also use good quality soldering materials like flux, solder paste and solder wire. These material decide the quality and longevity of the solder joint.
  2. Be Steady: Since SMD components are small, shaky hands can result in poor alignment. Use a magnifying glass or microscope to get a clearer view.
  3. Practice on Scrap Boards: If you are a beginner and new to SMD soldering, practice on old or scrap PCBs before working on expensive or important boards.
  4. Temperature Control is Key: Excessive heat can damage components or the PCB. Always ensure the temperature and air flow of your soldering tools is appropriate and withing set limits.

Final Words:

SMD soldering and desoldering may sound difficult, especially for beginners, but with the right tools and techniques, you can easily learn the essential skill. Always use trusted and reliable good quality tools and consumables, maintain a steady hand, and apply proper heat and air flow control. Best Wishes and Good Luck! 😀

FAQs: Soldering and Desoldering Surface Mount Components

Surface mount soldering is a technique to attach electronic components directly onto the surface of a PCB.

Place and align the component on the pads, apply solder paste, and heat it using a hot air SMD rework station or use a soldering iron and solder wire to solder each lead one by one.

You need a soldering iron or hot air blower, tweezers, solder paste or wire, and flux.

Use a hot air SMD rework station or soldering iron with a desoldering wick to remove the component.

The ideal temperature is typically between 250°C and 350°C.

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Santosh Das

Santosh, founder of this Electronics Tutorial Website, is an Electronics Geek, Blogger and Young Entrepreneur. He possesses vast experience in the field of electronics, electronic components, PCB, Soldering, SMT, Telecommunication, ESD Safety, and PCB Assembly Tools, Equipment and Consumables. Keep visiting for daily dose of Tips and Tutorials.

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