The intermittent operation parameter indicates that the soldering iron is not designed for continuous heating. Its heating is activated only for a short, necessary period of time, for example by pressing a switch. This mode is usually specified by two time indications, for example in the format '12 s / 48 s'. The first value, here 12 seconds, represents the maximum time the soldering iron can be switched on and heated continuously. The second value, in this case 48 seconds, then specifies the minimum time the tool must be off and cooling before it can be used again. Observing these intervals is crucial to protect the tool from overheating and permanent damage, as its internal components are not designed to withstand high temperatures continuously. A typical example of a tool with this operating mode is the transformer soldering iron, also known as a soldering gun. This is in contrast to soldering stations, which are designed for continuous operation where they maintain a set temperature for a long period of time.