BACKGROUND
Soldering is the process of melting a lead-based metal, known as solder, to join certain metals together in order to create rigid connections. These connections also conduct electricity allowing current to continue flowing through them. The process involves three basic components, a soldering iron, solder wire, and a brass sponge.
The soldering iron is essentially an extremely hot piece of metal in order to melt the solder. Solder is a metal alloy which melts and solidifies very quickly, forming the rigid connection. Finally the brass sponge is to ensure the tip of the soldering iron stays clean in order to prevent fumes and contamination.
The process involves touching the tip of the iron to a strand of solder. The solder melts, quickly adheres to the metal, and cools to form a rigid connection. This connection can be easily reversed through melting the solder again.
SAFETY
In terms of safety, the primary danger of soldering is of course the heat. The iron functions at an extremely high temperature and any contact is certain to cause a burn. Along with that, as with most manufacturing processes, safety glasses are a must. Finally a fume extractor or some sort of ventilation is required to dispose of the solder fumes. The solder wire is made out of lead which is extremely toxic. Thus all precautions must be taken to ensure it is not ingested in anyway.
CAMPUS RESOURCES
Soldering irons are relatively cheap and thus are very common. Places to find them include the TechSpark MakerSpace in Hamerschlag Hall, the Physical Computing room in the Hunt basement, and the Morewood Gardens MakerSpace