Blue tac alternative?

M

matmonster58

Active member
I love using blue tac to hold my parts and PCBs in place while soldering.

The only problem is that bluetac softens with heat so it can get a little messy when a part gets too hot.

Are there any alternatives to like blue tac that aren't as heat sensitive?
 
I use it for soldering resistor/cap sockets and toggle switches in place. But, I remove it after soldering one joint. That's usually plenty enough to hold a part in place while soldering the remaining contacts.
 
More of a an issue with axial compinents. I justvstarted soldering them from the top side. it takes a pretty fine tip and a different touch but its way less frustrating and faster IMO. electros i bend and flip. film i still use bluetac or solder from underneath with no eye protection(like the troglodite that i am). been having some neck issues so i'm trying to not be looking down at my bench, among other things in life, for extend periods.
Soldering upside down, or down side up? Is a fun challenge.
Presnipping excess component length, helps with everything, except bending and flipping. Less of a heat sink of the leg means less time -less heating of the component. Regardless, top side resistors are a joy once you get the hang of it. No stupid legs in the way. And you get to post pics and wait for some newbie to comment about your soldering skills being off. 🤣
 
Nostradoomus said:
Team top side soldering checking in @jwin615 🫡
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Bottom feed3rs 4evr.

warriors-come-out-and-play.jpg
 
I use a callused finger. My index finger has quite a good callus from something... I think it has to do with our hobby but I can't quite put my finger on it... Something with strings?
 
hippsters! the cheapest painters tape will do. hold large parts with a finger to get one pin fixated then the rest without anything else.
 
Painter's tape works in some situations for me, but not all... Sometimes a blob or two of Blu Tac is perfect - except for the damn residue!! I've tried three different brands, they all do it... Anybody ever try blobs of Museum Gel? I really have no idea what consistency this crap is, but seems like it might not leave residue like tac. It could also be much, much worse. :)
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swelchy said:
I have two of these.. best thing I ever moved to...... blue tack and flopped on the table is not for me..

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Oh yeah, I love my little Panavise Mini! Still, there are times I need a blob of something to keep the upside-down components from drifting…Blu tac is perfect aside from the Smurf Rash it leaves…
 
Ginsly said:
Oh yeah, I love my little Panavise Mini! Still, there are times I need a blob of something to keep the upside-down components from drifting…Blu tac is perfect aside from the Smurf Rash it leaves…
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What temp you soldering at? I solder at 700-750F get on off quick and rarely an issue with Blu getting sticky and soft!
 
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