Considering getting one.
Can you use one of these for the initial soldering of a part, such as a QFN-32 IC? Does that require solder paste?
Do they typically handle a range of parts, such as 0805 resistors and capacitors? Odd shaped inductors for small switching power supplies? Connectors, such as USB or microSD? SMT LEDs with domed tops?
Any recommendations, pro or con?
Thanks
Jim
The big Metcal ones can melt titanium balls let alone plastic parts if you’re not careful so get a selection of nozzle sizes.
Kapton tape is useful.
Get one with temperature and airflow rate adjustment.
The finer ones are good as soldering pencils for small areas and with two pin components, and the larger ones are what you need for desoldering chips.
Not good for soldering large chips down in my experience - that is better with a reflow or an oven where you get even heating. Largest you could probably do with a hot air gun is probably soic8, or maybe 14. Yes you’d need paste although I can do small chips with careful application of normal solder (just make sure the bumps are all the same size).
I have the typical hot air "handle" with a large variety of tips. Haven't had an issue with QFN per se, but getting the pads/part ready is the biggest headache (as opposed to the heating) I much prefer TQFP, where I can easily see (& correct!!!!) any misdeeds.
I also get tired of blowing my parts all around onto the floor, so in many cases (depending on my mood) I use light instead of air. The unit is made for large chips like 500 pin BGAs, but I use it, for example, an array of 0402 resistors. The unit includes a "hotplate" heater base, so the light just applies maybe 50% of the heating. Since there is no air blowing, all parts remain cooperative!! I've never used it for BGA's.
gchapman 
... such as a QFN-32 IC? Does that require solder paste?
Any recommendations, pro or con?
https://youtu.be/BvhE16vBfX4?t=210 in SMD Soldering - QFN Package - YouTube (7m44s)
edit :
WTHA1 Hot Air Station - Apex | Mouser
gchapman Kinda similar though hot air (ETA 31-Oct'22)
Products | REFLO Air | Crowd Supply
REFLO Air - Crowd Supply | Mouser
You can read this review before buying: https://www.electronicshub.org/b...
I use a toaster oven.
gchapman Louis recommends
ST-862D High Power Hot Air Station - Shenzhen Atten Technology
https://youtu.be/agG108sxkyo?t=581
for about 40 seconds in
Apple's self service repair program got released, let's check it out - YouTube (17m15s)
Louis mentions BGA; can rework small BGA with relatively inexpensive tools including the definitely inexpensive tools (a hot air gun from the home improvement store)
Macbook Repair NYC | (347) 552-2258 | Rossmann Repair Group
It takes a few minutes to learn how to do it, but most parts can be placed using hot air, I use normal solder and iron to wet pads, then use the HA to place the part. I have never messed with paste, I prefer to use water soluble solder flux and rinse and blow dry after soldering. It’s easy to learn Jim!
fly over Jim
gchapman Thanks -
Have not decided yet.
Jim
