Ten Tips to Increase the Life of Your Soldering Tips

Based on an original publication by Hakko

Health and environmental benefits accompanied the introduction of lead-free solder, however so did some challenges. One of the biggest challenges--the melting point of lead-free solder, when compared to leaded solder is 30° higher and oxidization of the tip happens four to five times faster than when using leaded solder. Higher the heat, the more tip erosion.

Technicians have transitioned from leaded to lead-free solder and with time have learned the ins-and-outs of lead-free soldering including several useful benefits. Understanding the characteristics of lead-free solder and adopting some simple tip maintenance habits can help prevent iron tips from oxidizing and help tips last longer.