What is the function of the hole in the centre of a sponge?

HKPhysicist 10 months ago

Hello Friends,

Is there any function of the hole in the centre of a soldering station sponge?

For instance, this one:

https://hk.element14.com/metcal/ac-ys3/sponge-workstand/dp/4950483

I have 2 sponges from 2 different soldering stations. Both of them have big holes in the centre.

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anniel747 10 months ago +9

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beacon_dave 10 months ago in reply to anniel747 +4

I find that it helps contain the contaminants after you scrape them off, leaving the rest of the sponge clean for the final wipes of the tip.
shabaz 10 months ago +4

https://youtu.be/cSFLWEU9_Ok?feature=shared

0 dougw 10 months ago

I have not heard the reason.

Perhaps it is a place to pour water, or see the water level....
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0 Jan Cumps 10 months ago

So that they can expand inside the little box they are seating in
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+1 anniel747 10 months ago

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0 mp2100 10 months ago

To set the little round dish that holds the brass shaving, to clean the solderring iron?? Maybe.
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0 shabaz 10 months ago

Hehe I bet they also sell the little round cut-outs in a tealight aluminium container, for use with little portable soldering irons : )
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0 beacon_dave 10 months ago in reply to anniel747

I find that it helps contain the contaminants after you scrape them off, leaving the rest of the sponge clean for the final wipes of the tip.
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0 shabaz 10 months ago

https://youtu.be/cSFLWEU9_Ok?feature=shared
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0 kmikemoo 10 months ago

Um... never seen it. I've only seen the little rectangular ones that look like snack crackers when you first open the soldering kit. The hole must be the upgraded version. So much to learn.
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0 robogary 10 months ago

To snuff out your cigar
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0 shabaz 10 months ago

It's also philosophical. A sponge in itself is material with holes in it. It is a reminder that the whole universe is actually a sponge.
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