We believe that tip tinners reduce the life of the tip, also. Why do you use such a product?
We like using solder paste to clean solder tips. Place expired solder paste in a covered container. Open container and dip the tip. It comes out clean and shiny.
Also, we like tip cleaners: * Xytronic Tip Cleaner http://www.xytronic-usa.com/accessories_index.htm#tc
* Hakko 599B Tip Cleaner http://www.hakkousa.com/2006/detail.asp?PID=749&Page=1&Assistant=Dinky
That black stuff that builds-up on the tip when using low residue flux is synthetic resins and activators that are polymerizing and coating the soldering iron tip with a non-wetting polymer film. If that's the case, either: * Turn-down the dial ... OR * Find a flux that is either nonsynthetic or one that can stand the heat.
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