Very quick delivery from Bamford Trading...full marks for that. This Soldering Station is certainly OK for the money. It took longer to heat up than my previous solder station (a cheap Lidl item that has served me well for 2 years and which I have now fixed by replacing the Triac). When it came to temperature however, it did the job and certainly seems fit for purpose. The sponge (I prefer to use the wire shaving tip cleaners anyway) is not well placed and there is a likelihood that the plastic moulding will soon be damaged by misplaced hot irons. My only complaint is that it is only supplied with one tip and there is no clear instruction on where replacements can be purchased (other than "from Draper"). I took a look at the Draper site and it appeared that there was only one (conical) tip that 'may' fit this iron and that was circa £5 (which I personally feel is too expensive). I did not find any other type of tip variety (such as chisel) for this model. I would say this item is OK for occasional use (so that you get a good lifetime from the tip).
LATEST UPDATE
I reported the problem I had experience (detailed below ) to Draper and what a fantastic company it turns out to be! The company undertook a extensive tests and were unable to re-produce the problem. Additionally they were mystified by the issue I have experienced as they have not, it seems, had ANY previous comment or complaint of this nature from thousands of units sold. It seems therefore that my problem was a one-off. Nevertheless, despite not being able to accept there was an issue, they sent me a replacement soldering station, without prejudice, free of charge. First rate customer service.!
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Since reviewing this item (shortly after receipt) I have been using it more extensively and have found what I consider to be a SERIOUS design issue. When the iron is left in the holder at a reasonably high temperature (about 3/4 on the scale), the metal coil which forms the holder obviously expands and the plastic top is then released along with the inner sleeve. This means that when you attempt to lift the iron for use the whole, very hot, (iron temperature) inner assembly comes with it. ! PLEASE SEE ABOVE FOR LATEST UPDATE
| Included components | Draper Soldering Station (40W) |
|---|---|
| Global Trade Identification Number | 05010559614783 |
| Manufacturer | Draper |
| Part Number | SI400 |
| Product Dimensions | 1 x 1 x 1 cm; 760 g |
| Item model number | 61478 |
| Colour | Blue |
| Power Source | Corded |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Batteries included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Battery description | Not Included |
| Item Weight | 760 g |
