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I opened up an old soldering iron and when I took out the tip, I found this substance underneath that even comes on my hand if I touch it. What is this? Is this still suitable for use?

Note- I really couldn't find a way to search this thing so forgive me if it's a duplicate of some sort.

Addition : I removed the tip and saw this - Is this still good enough to use or should I replace the tip? The tip heats up but solder won't stick and tip is just black. I could clean it upto this level - Why does it have a bluish tinge @ some places?

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    \$\begingroup\$ Oxide and flux-residue. The latter probably isn't too healthy. Wash your hands. \$\endgroup\$
    – Trevor_G
    Feb 8 '18 at 15:01
  • \$\begingroup\$ Is it still good enough to use? \$\endgroup\$
    – Divyesh Narayanan
    Feb 8 '18 at 15:03
  • \$\begingroup\$ As long as it still heats up as expected..yes \$\endgroup\$
    – Trevor_G
    Feb 8 '18 at 15:04
  • \$\begingroup\$ Oxide is both a thermal and electrical insulator, so keeping an iron clean with recommended tinning and cleaning proceedures extends the life before and after every daily use. \$\endgroup\$
    – Tony Stewart EE75
    Feb 8 '18 at 15:09
  • \$\begingroup\$ Can you please suggest a link perhaps where I can learn them from? \$\endgroup\$
    – Divyesh Narayanan
    Feb 8 '18 at 15:14
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It's probably a mixture of metal oxides and residue from solder vapors. The high heat accelerates oxidization. Melting solder releases vapor and particulates (smoke), and some of it deposits on the iron over time.

Cleaning wouldn't hurt: if it wipes off easily then just wipe it off with a rag. If the iron still works, there's no reason to stop using it.

It's probably some fairly nasty stuff: somewhat corrosive and contaminated with heavy metals. Wash your hands.

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  • \$\begingroup\$ Can you answer for the addition too please? \$\endgroup\$
    – Divyesh Narayanan
    Feb 15 '18 at 5:08

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