Specifically when using lead-free solder, increased oxide formation may occur on the surface of the soldering tip. These oxides must be removed specifically, since they can very quickly result in a black, unwettable separating layer.
A special spiral wool is used to clean the soldering tip in the WELLER WDC Dry Cleaner. For rough cleaning, the uncleaned old solder is knocked against a soft edge into a collection container. The precision cleaning is then done by stripping off or rotating the soldering tip in the spiral wool. After the precision cleaning, a thin layer of remaining solder is still present, which prevents immediate oxidation of the soldering tip.