Why Are Soldering Iron Tips Of Fully Automatic Soldering Machines Easily Damaged?

Why do soldering tips of fully automatic soldering machines tend to get damaged, and what are the corresponding solutions? Below is an explanation provided by OKATA Automatic Soldering Machine Manufacturer:

1. Soldering Tip Wear

Wear is inevitable during actual operation. The soldering iron tip of an automatic soldering machine repeatedly contacts the solder pad and component leads. In some machines, the solder surface is cleaned using a metal brush, which also accelerates wear.

Solution:
This issue typically requires assistance from the soldering tip manufacturer. Increasing the hardness of the alloy layer during tip production is an effective way to reduce wear.

2. Oxidation of the Soldering Iron Tip

The operating temperature of an automatic soldering machine is generally set between 370°C and 420°C. When the temperature exceeds 370°C, oxidation of the soldering tip becomes significantly faster. At 420°C, the oxidation rate can increase by more than double. This often results in black or gray oxide layers (commonly referred to as "dirt" by operators), which severely affect solder joint quality.

Solution:
Use a soldering tip temperature tester to measure the actual tip temperature, then adjust it properly within the working range. Maintaining appropriate temperature significantly reduces oxidation and extends tip lifespan.

3. Corrosion and Peeling of the Protective Layer

When operating at high temperatures, the greatest damage to a soldering iron tip comes from acidic substances that corrode the working surface. Direct corrosion and perforation are not uncommon in practice.
Severe corrosion leads to chromium layer peeling, loss of tin-wetting protection, poor tin loading/unloading, inconsistent solder volume, and increased soldering defects. Eventually, the soldering tip becomes unusable.

Solutions:

+ When selecting solder wire for the automatic soldering machine, choose products with lower acidity to slow down corrosion from the source.

+ Communicate with the soldering tip manufacturer to request enhanced surface treatment, which can significantly improve corrosion resistance.