Many of us tend to be rather blasé - I certainly have - with regard to fumes, often thinking we are only doing something for a very short time, like soldering a joint, and they will be gone. I have spoken with more and more people who are either sure or think they may have done some harm, temporary or permanent, to their lungs. Fumes from solder is only part of the equation; flux fumes, especially if you use an acid, can be equally or more harmful.
Fume extractors are available, many at a price because they are aimed at the professional market where people spend long periods at the workbench soldering without the breaks we have reading instructions (which I am sure everyone does very conscientiously) cutting, filing, fitting and picking pieces off the floor. This leads us in to a false sense of security.
I have adopted an approach which, whilst far from perfect, may help and costs little to make and try out. I first saw the idea some years ago and have been meaning to get round to it ever since.
I set up a computer fan on a wooden base, used a 12volt, 2amp plug transformer and inserted a simple switch. I am no electrician but even I managed this (eventually). The fan came from an old computer going to scrap and cost nothing; the switch was less than £1, the DC plug socket about £2 and the transformer £5.99. Total cost less than £10.
It does make a little bit of noise, but no more than a computer and it is easy to switch on and off. The draft appears sufficient to waft fumes away from my face without blasting everything on the bench on to the floor. I also use it with Mel/Plastic Weld. I don't think it can replace a proper extractor unit for spray painting, though. I pass the idea on for others to think about.
Fume extractors are available, many at a price because they are aimed at the professional market where people spend long periods at the workbench soldering without the breaks we have reading instructions (which I am sure everyone does very conscientiously) cutting, filing, fitting and picking pieces off the floor. This leads us in to a false sense of security.
I have adopted an approach which, whilst far from perfect, may help and costs little to make and try out. I first saw the idea some years ago and have been meaning to get round to it ever since.
I set up a computer fan on a wooden base, used a 12volt, 2amp plug transformer and inserted a simple switch. I am no electrician but even I managed this (eventually). The fan came from an old computer going to scrap and cost nothing; the switch was less than £1, the DC plug socket about £2 and the transformer £5.99. Total cost less than £10.
It does make a little bit of noise, but no more than a computer and it is easy to switch on and off. The draft appears sufficient to waft fumes away from my face without blasting everything on the bench on to the floor. I also use it with Mel/Plastic Weld. I don't think it can replace a proper extractor unit for spray painting, though. I pass the idea on for others to think about.
