In electronics, desoldering is the removal of solder and components from a circuit for troubleshooting and repair purposes. Electronic components are often mounted on a circuit board and it is usually desirable to avoid damaging the circuit board, surrounding components, and the component being removed.
Specialized tools, materials, and techniques have been devised to aid in the desoldering process.
Desoldering tools and materials include:
- Desoldering braids
- Heat guns
- Vacuum plungers (solder suckers)
- Removal alloys
- Removal fluxes
- Vacuum and/or pressure pumps with specialized heater tips and nozzles