The Xytronic LF-852D hot air SMD rework station has a built-in intelligent microcomputer chip and is specially designed for rework of lead-free SMD chips such as SOIC, CHIP, QFP, PLCC, BGA, etc.
ESD safe
Dual LED display
Display of temperature and airflow
Push-button control of temperature and airflow
Fast heat-up time
Static-free circuitry for safe use on CMOS ICs
Auto-cooling: pump runs after unit is switched off
Automatic over-temperature cut-out
Supplied complete with 4 hot air nozzles, 5 assorted stainless steel tweezers, IC popper tool, stand for hot air gun and spare heating element
The Xytronic-LF-852D-600W is substantial and heavy, heats up fast and produces an impressive amount of air. This is due to the pump being in the main body rather than the handle, with a thick tube connecting the two. Temperature and air speed is easy and quick to adjust, though a physical dial would be preferred to up/down buttons.
The pump appears to be a diaphragm type, so produces a quite loud low frequency buzz as opposed to the high pitched hiss of a fan type. I didn't find this too much of an issue in practice, but in a very quiet office environment might cause issues.
Built quality is solid, with an extruded aluminum and steel enclosure and a nicely weighted hand tool. The thick plastic of the tool keeps it cool in use, but I have not used it for extended periods.
In contrast to cheaper hot air tools I have used, it does not turn off immediately but runs the fan for about a minute after turn off to cool down the tool. This can cause issues if you have a very crowded bench, as you will be placing the tool back into the holder when it is still blowing hot air, but if you are careful not to leave flammable objects or loose paper lying about this should not be an issue.
