This Antex Model C miniature soldering iron has a heat-proof silicone mains cable, ideal for use in education. It has a 15W heating element and is ideal for small soldering applications where too much heat could cause damage to components.
Silicone mains lead
230V mains power
15W heating element
Length including cable protector and soldering bit approx. 200mm
Body diameter max. 17mm
Supplied complete with soldering bit, stand and fitted UK 13A plug
Wide range of alternative soldering bits available, please see order code 85-5548
Q. Silicone cable sounds a good idea but is it heavier or less flexible than PVC?
A. Hi Tony, thank you for your question. It is no less flexible as such, it will just withstand direct heat better than the PVC cable which easily melts.
Q. what tip ends would suit this soldering iron best
A. Hi Paul, thank you for your question. Please see here.
Reviews
Great all-round soldering iron in a compact form
Reviewed by: Brian - Monday, December 30, 2019
I have been really impressed by this soldering iron. Despite its diminutive size and low wattage (only 15 W), it is fully capable of a range of tasks the typical student might undertake. The silicone-sheathed mains cable is an essential feature for a classroom environment as it reduces the chance of damage from accidental (or intentional) contact with hot surfaces; it is also more flexible than the PVC alternative, never kinks and is therefore easier to use. We have purchased many Antex soldering irons, including larger 25 W models, and this one performs just as well as its bigger brothers. The compact size makes it feel more suited to precision work, but I have also used it on larger tasks. I've linked to a couple of videos in case you want to see it being used.
https://youtu.be/5LKppwMnTNU
https://youtu.be/JneGfHHwJfk
Really nice iron for delicate work
Reviewed by: Mr Chris Smith - Friday, July 29, 2016
Bought this to compliment my larger Weller TCP and Antex XS25 as they are a little high powered for some delicate soldering tasks, particularly SMD parts. Firstly this is absolutely tiny; from tip to strain relief, it is slightly smaller than my hand. This is a good thing as it's like using a pen rather than a hefty iron. Good control, heat transfer and the handle doesn't get too hot. Turns out to be fine for most jobs including daily SMD+TH soldering, breadboarding on a solid copper ground plane and repair work which it has replaced the Weller for as it's easier to control. Struggles a little on very large pads and thick component leads (think large electrolytics and thick wire) but it's not really designed for that. I would suggest using the provided 2.3mm bit however; the 1.0mm chisel doesn't have enough heat transfer for anything useful.