Historically, what is the approximate wattage of soldering stations used for electronics circuit-board work?

Soldering stations used for electronics circuit-board work typically operate at around 30 watts. This wattage strikes a balance between providing enough heat to melt solder efficiently while avoiding damage to sensitive components on the circuit board. A soldering station with 30 watts is suitable for most delicate soldering tasks, allowing for precise work on small components without excessive heat that could lead to overheating or damaging the printed circuit board or its components.

Higher wattages, while capable of melting solder faster, can introduce risks when working with sensitive electronics, making a 30-watt option the most commonly recommended for general electronics work. Additionally, lower wattage options like 10 watts are generally insufficient for most soldering tasks, while 50 watts and 75 watts may be more appropriate for heavier soldering jobs or applications involving larger components or thicker wires.