Soldering can be done in a number of ways, including passing parts over a bulk container of melted solder, using an infrared lamp, or by using a point source such as an electric soldering iron or brazing torch.
Soldering is distinct from welding in that the base materials to be joined are not melted.
Since lead used in traditional solder alloys is toxic, much effort in industry has been directed to adapting solderingtechniques to use lead-free alloys for assembly of electronic devices and for potable water supply piping.
Throughout the years solder has been used in various applications, however it was the invention of electronic devices in the latter part of this century that led to rapid advances in soldering technologies.
Solder paste is a substance with a cream-like consistency made up of solder, flux, and some carrying medium.
Another technique used is to dip dull pins into the solder paste, and then dab the end of the pin onto the board.