Solder Dispenser

I replaced the combination work station I’ve had for years with new separated tools, and was surprised by the solution I came to for a solder dispenser.

The station I’m moving away from is the “LED Magnifying Work Stand With Third Hand” sold by American Science & Surplus:

The solder dispenser is that black horizontal bar in the back.

It’s got a lot of features, each providing a use I’ve come to rely on:

• helper hands clamp
• gooseneck alligator clip third hand
• soldering iron stand
• brass wool holder
• light / magnifying glass
• solder dispenser

But after working with it for so long, I’ve identified the tools and processes that will better serve my needs.

The move started when I received an Omnifixo M4 as a gift. I love this clamp set, particularly because it lets me get very precise holds easily in a way I never could with the springy gooseneck arm. It also lets me hold multiple things independently, something that was frustratingly difficult when all your clamps are fixed to the same base.

I clean my soldering iron tip by dragging it toward me across brass wool, which consequently sends little bits of metal flying everywhere. This soldering iron and brass wool holder has a great domed covering that keeps the splatter contained. I also really appreciate being able to stash the iron away from my clamped workpiece.

I have a positionable light panel on the workbench, and I love this cheap handheld magnifier ($3.97 shipped when I got it), so the only missing component to be replaced was the solder dispenser.

I thought for a moment about buying something purpose-built, but instead I looked around the room for an axle and frame and landed on this:

Two popsicle sticks and a scrap of cardboard. That's it.

I often start with a cardboard prototype for project enclosures, but this combination of paper and popsicle sticks does what I need and seems strong enough to last.

I drilled holes in the ends of the sticks so I could use a safety pin to stop them from slipping out, but that turned out completely unnecessary. The press fit of the popsicle stick through a slit in the cardboard is plenty sturdy to keep things in place.

The holes in the front stick are very useful, though, as they keep the threaded solder from getting lost on the spool.

While this does stay in place when the solder is pulled from it, I added some adhesive rubber feet to the bottom to give it a little extra grip. Now it can take a hefty tug and still stay put.

If I had a 3D printer, I’m sure I would have made something out of plastic. It would have been irresistible. But I’m actually really thankful I don’t and didn’t. This folded piece of cardboard is tough and rigid enough that I expect this dispenser to last for many years. And when its end does come, I can just toss it in the compost and make another.