Soldering is essential in many industries, such as electronics, manufacturing, and engineering. Workers’ soldering skills must meet the industry’s standards. This is where soldering certification comes in. Let’s explore what it takes to get certified.
Do You Get Soldering Certification?
Soldering certification confirms one’s soldering skills and knowledge. Different certifications are available depending on the soldering one needs. The common ones are:
IPC Certifications (Electronics Soldering)
IPC stands for Institute of Printed Circuits. It is an organization that standardizes the assembly and production of electronic equipment. Currently, it is known as Interconnecting and Packaging Electronic Circuits.
- IPC-A-610 – Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies Certification
This certification is granted to individuals with the knowledge and skills to assess electronic assemblies according to established industry standards. They can accurately distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable soldering. This certification is beneficial for quality supervisors, manufacturing supervisors, and engineering supervisors.
- IPC J-STD-001 – Requirements for Soldered Electrical & Electronic Assemblies Certification
Individuals with this certification are experienced solderers trained to solder and assess electronic connections based on industry standards. This certification provides them with knowledge of materials, methods, and acceptance criteria for producing reliable and high-quality soldered connections in electronic assemblies.
- IPC-7711/7721 – Rework, Repair, and Modification of Electronics Certification
This certification trains specialists, standards experts, and instructors to remove and replace electronic components and repair circuitry while ensuring quality and reliability.
AWS Certifications (Industrial & Pipe Soldering)
- AWS B2.3/B2.4 – Soldering Procedure and Performance Qualification Certification
The American Welding Society (AWS) provides standards for soldering components related to the HVAC, plumbing, and aerospace industries. AWS B2.3/B2.4 Certification confirms individual skills and knowledge in soldering procedures involving a torch, furnace, induction, and more. This includes details on base metals, filler metals, fluxes, and joint clearances.
NATE Certifications (HVAC Soldering & Brazing)
NATE certification includes training on soldering and brazing for HVAC technicians. It focuses on the fundamental skills related to Knowledge Areas of Technician Expertise (KATE’s).
NASA Certifications
NASA certifications are for aerospace applications.
- NASA-STD-8739.3 – High-reliability hand soldering (for aerospace applications)
This is a NASA standard for hand-soldering electrical connections for spacecraft and ground support equipment. Certification is granted to operators, inspectors, or level B instructors who have completed the training for this standard.
- NASA-STD-8739.4 – Wiring harness and cable assembly
NASA-STD-8739.4 outlines the wiring and cable assembly standards for NASA aerospace hardware and essential ground-support equipment. Certification is awarded to operators, inspectors, or supplier-level B instructors who complete the training associated with this standard.
How To Get a Soldering Certification?
Here are the various steps in getting soldering certification:
Know the Different Soldering Certifications
Recognized soldering certifications include:
- IPC Certifications (Most Recognized Globally)
- AWS Soldering Certifications (American Welding Society)
- NATE Certification (HVAC Soldering & Brazing)
- NASA Certifications (Aerospace applications)
- Company-Specific Certifications (Boeing, Lockheed Martin, etc.)
Choose the Right Program
Once you identify the required certification, select the right program based on your needs and career goals. In determining, consider the following:
- Course Content
Ensure it covers the essential topics and hands-on practice.
- Duration
Consider the schedule and the duration of the program. Choose one that is favorable to you.
- Cost
Compare tuition costs across different training schools. Check if they offer financial assistance.
Complete the Training
Enroll in the chosen training at the soldering certification classes near me. Training typically includes:
- Classroom Instruction
Classroom teaching includes theoretical knowledge, tools, methods, safety measures, and best practices.
- Hands-on Experience
Soldering is a skill that requires hands-on experience. You must learn to solder different components, joints, and materials under the supervision of instructors.
- Inspection and Quality Control
Training also includes inspection and quality control skills. You must understand the causes of defective soldering and the minimization techniques.
Take the Certification Exam
The certification exam has two parts:
- Written Exam
This exam tests your understanding of soldering theory, standards, procedures, and quality control.
- Practical Exam
The practical exam tests your soldering skills and demonstrates your ability to make proper connections.
Obtain Your Certification
You will receive a certification valid for 2-3 years upon passing the exam. Recertification may be required to maintain it.
Where Can I Get a Soldering Certification?
You can get soldering certification from the following:
- IPC Training Centers
IPC certification courses are available at IPC-licensed centers worldwide. So, visit IPC certification near me.
- Technical Schools and Colleges
Many technical schools and colleges offer soldering certification courses.
- Online Courses
Some online training institutions offer soldering certification courses. It is crucial to ensure that these programs follow industry standards.
How to Update the Soldering Certificate?
Most soldering certifications have a validity of two years. To continue your craft, you need to update or recertify your certification. The following are the steps in recertification:
Know the Certifying Body
Well-known ones are:
- IPC Certification
- AWS Certification
- NATE Certification
- NASA Certification
Know Your Certification
Check the standard of your certification (e.g., J-STD-001, IPC-A-610, IPC-7711/7721, etc.). Each certification has specific requirements.
Verify your certification level: CIS, CIT, or CSE. Each has a unique recertification process.
Choose Your Renewal Method
There are several methods of recertification:
- Challenge Test
If you are confident in your understanding and skills in soldering, you can take a challenge test that includes both written and practical exams.
- Recertification Course
If you are doubtful about your understanding and skills, you can take a renewal course. This course reviews the essentials of soldering. After taking the course, you can take the recertification exam.
- Full Course Retake
If you have not been actively practicing your skills or there are significant updates, taking a full course is advisable to pass the recertification exam.
Enroll in your chosen method of recertification at IPC certification near me or online.
Prepare for the Exam
Ensure you are fully prepared for the challenge test or the renewal exams. Familiarize yourself with any updates to the standards.
Take the Exam
The exam is divided into written and practical.
Receive Your Updated Certificate
Once you pass the exam, you will receive your updated certificate, valid for two years.
Here are some bonus pieces of information on soldering.
How to Clean a Soldering Iron Tip?
Cleaning the soldering iron tip is necessary to make soldering easier, have better results, and extend tip life. Here are several ways of cleaning the tip:
- Damp Sponge
First, heat the soldering iron. Then, wipe the tip on a damp sponge (make sure it is not soaking wet) to remove oxidation and excess solder. Do this even while you are soldering.
- Brass Wool
Insert the tip into the brass wool and rotate it a few times to remove oxidation and excess solder. Some prefer this method over a damp sponge because it does not suddenly cool down the tip, which can damage it.
- Tip Tinner/Cleaner
If the tip is heavily oxidized, use a tip tinner or cleaner. Dip the tip into a tinner or cleaner that contains flux and solder. Rotate the tip a few times. Clean off the mixture by wiping the tip on a damp sponge or brass wool.
How to Solder Surface Mount?
Solder surface mount can be intimidating but with the right technique and tools, it can be done.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Soldering iron with a fine tip, temperature-controlled at 600-700°F (315-370°C).
- Use 0.5mm rosin-core solder wire or smaller.
- Flux, available in liquid or paste form, is used for cleaner work and improved reflow soldering.
- Solder paste (reflow soldering)
- Fine-tip, anti-static tweezers
- Magnifying glass or microscope (optional but recommended)
- Desoldering wick or solder sucker (for errors)
- Hot air rework station for advanced electronic repair tasks.
- PCB holder or third hand
- Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is used for cleaning printed circuit boards (PCBs) and efficiently removes flux residue.
Methods of Surface-Mount Soldering
Hand Soldering with a Soldering Iron
This method is ideal for larger SMT components such as resistors, capacitors, and SOIC chips. Here are the steps:
- Ensure that the PCB pads are thoroughly cleaned and consider applying flux to enhance solder flow.
- Tack one corner. Apply a small amount of solder to one pad.
- Position the component using tweezers and heat the pad to secure it.
- Apply solder to the other side while gently heating it.
- Reheat and adjust the position if necessary.
- Remove excess flux with isopropyl alcohol and a brush.
Hot Air Rework & Solder Paste (For Small/Complex Components)
This method is used for fine-pitch ICs and BGA components. Here are the steps:
- Apply solder paste. Use a stencil or apply a small amount to each pad carefully.
- Place the component using tweezers or a vacuum tool to align the component.
- Heat with a Hot Air Station, setting it to 250-350°C and moving it in a circular motion until the solder melts.
- Check for shorts and clean excess flux.
Reflow Oven (Best for Mass Assembly)
When soldering with Surface-Mount Technology (SMT), you need to apply solder paste, place the components, and then heat the board using a reflow oven.
Is Lead Solder Safe?
Lead solder has potential health risks, including neurological damage, kidney problems, and developmental issues in children. Due to these concerns, many electronics manufacturers have transitioned to lead-free solder alternatives.
How to Hold a Soldering Iron?
Properly holding a soldering iron is essential for accuracy, safety, and efficiency. Here’s how:
- Hold the soldering iron like a pen, ensuring that fingers are kept away from the heated tip.
- For stability, rest your wrist on the table or a small cushion. Use your elbow for additional stability.
- Balance the iron holding it at a 30–45-degree angle.
- Keep a firm but relaxed grip.
How to Solder SMT?
Please refer to “How to Solder Surface Mount?” discussed above. For more information about soldering SMT, visit soldering certification classes near me.
Final Thoughts
Soldering is essential in electronics, manufacturing, and engineering. However, these industries require qualified soldering workers to meet their standards. Certification is the primary means to determine workers’ qualifications.
Certification can be obtained from various organizations, such as IPC, AWS, NATE, and NASA. These organizations offer different certifications, so choose the type of certification that suits your needs.
Since certifications are typically valid for 2-3 years, it is important to update or recertify your certification to ensure the continuous practice of your craft.
