Solder Iron For Circuit Boards Guide: Grades, Composition, and How to Optimize Performance in Industry

Types of Soldering Irons for Circuit Boards

Soldering is a critical process in electronics manufacturing and repair, and choosing the right soldering iron can significantly impact the quality, precision, and safety of your work. With various types available—each designed for specific applications and skill levels—it's essential to understand their features, advantages, and limitations. Whether you're a hobbyist, technician, or engineer, selecting the appropriate soldering tool ensures clean joints, prevents component damage, and enhances overall efficiency.

Fixed Temperature Soldering Iron

A basic, no-frills tool that operates at a single, unchangeable temperature—typically around 700°F (370°C).

Advantages

• Inexpensive and widely available
• Simple to use with minimal setup
• Durable construction with few components to fail
• Ideal for beginners or infrequent use

Limitations

• Lack of temperature control increases risk of overheating
• Can damage sensitive components like ICs or PCB traces
• Poor performance with lead-free solder (requires higher temps)
• Cool-down between uses leads to inconsistent results

Best for: Basic electronics repairs, educational projects, non-sensitive tasks

Temperature Adjustable Soldering Iron

Features manual or dial-based temperature control, allowing users to set heat levels based on solder type and component sensitivity.

Advantages

• Greater flexibility across different soldering tasks
• Reduces risk of thermal damage to PCBs and components
• Compatible with both leaded and lead-free solders
• Better heat retention than fixed models

Limitations

• Less precise than digital models
• Analog dials may drift over time
• Slower heat recovery under heavy use
• May require frequent calibration

Best for: Intermediate users, general PCB repair, mixed-component boards

Digital Soldering Iron

High-precision soldering stations with digital temperature readouts and advanced feedback systems for consistent performance.

Advantages

• Precise temperature control (±5°C accuracy)
• Real-time digital display for monitoring
• Rapid heat-up and excellent thermal recovery
• Programmable settings and safety auto-shutoff
• Ideal for surface-mount (SMD) and fine-pitch components

Limitations

• Higher cost compared to analog models
• More complex interface may overwhelm beginners
• Requires stable power supply for optimal performance
• May need firmware updates or software support

Best for: Professional electronics assembly, SMD work, labs, and high-reliability applications

Battery-Powered Soldering Iron

Portable, cordless soldering tools powered by lithium-ion or NiMH rechargeable batteries—perfect for on-the-go repairs.

Advantages

• Full portability with no need for AC power
• Great for field repairs, automotive work, or remote locations
• Quick heat-up (some models reach temp in under 30 seconds)
• Compact and lightweight design

Limitations

• Limited battery life (typically 15–60 minutes per charge)
• Lower maximum temperature than plug-in models
• Slower heat recovery during prolonged use
• Not ideal for large joints or continuous soldering

Best for: Mobile technicians, emergency fixes, outdoor or vehicle-based electronics work

Type	Temperature Control	Precision	Portability	Best Use Case
Fixed Temperature	None	Low	Moderate	Beginner projects, simple repairs
Adjustable Temperature	Manual (Dial)	Moderate	Good	General PCB work, mixed components
Digital Soldering Iron	Digital (Precise)	High	Fair (Station-based)	Professional, SMD, and high-density boards
Battery-Powered	Limited (Often Fixed or Basic Adjust)	Moderate	Excellent	Field service, emergency repairs

Expert Tip: Always match your soldering iron temperature to the type of solder you're using—typically 600–650°F (315–340°C) for leaded solder and 650–750°F (340–400°C) for lead-free. Using the correct tip size and keeping it tinned will also improve heat transfer and joint quality.

Safety Note: Regardless of iron type, always use a fume extractor or work in a well-ventilated area. Soldering produces harmful flux fumes, especially when working with lead-free alloys. A proper stand and anti-static mat further enhance safety and equipment longevity.

Essential Features of Soldering Irons for Circuit Board Work

Selecting the right soldering iron is crucial for achieving clean, reliable connections on electronic circuit boards. The performance, precision, and safety of your soldering tasks depend heavily on key features such as power output, temperature regulation, tip design, and portability. Understanding these characteristics allows hobbyists, technicians, and engineers to make informed decisions based on their specific application needs.

Power Rating: Balancing Heat Output and Control

Low to Medium Power (15–25W)

Irons in the 15–25 watt range are ideal for delicate electronics and small-scale PCB (printed circuit board) work. These lower-wattage models heat up more slowly and deliver less thermal mass, reducing the risk of overheating sensitive components like surface-mount devices (SMDs), integrated circuits (ICs), or thin copper traces.

While they may require longer dwell time on joints, their controlled heat output makes them safer for intricate repairs and prototyping, especially in educational or home lab environments.

High Power (30–40W+)

Soldering irons with 30 to 40 watts or higher provide faster heating and better thermal recovery—meaning they maintain consistent temperature when contacting large metal areas or ground planes. This makes them suitable for through-hole components, larger connectors, or boards with high thermal conductivity.

However, without proper temperature control, these higher-powered tools can easily damage heat-sensitive parts. They are best used with adjustable thermostats and fine tips to balance speed and precision.

Temperature Control: Precision for Different Materials

Advanced soldering irons feature precise temperature control, allowing users to set optimal heat levels depending on the type of solder alloy and component being used. For example:

• Lead-based solder typically melts around 183°C (361°F), so a setting between 300–350°C (572–662°F) is sufficient.
• Lead-free solder, which has become standard due to environmental regulations, requires higher temperatures—usually 350–400°C (662–752°F).
• Sensitive components like CMOS chips or plastic-bodied connectors may require lower settings to prevent thermal stress or melting.

Modern irons offer either analog dials or digital displays with thermostat feedback systems. Digital models often include memory presets, auto-sleep functions, and real-time temperature monitoring, enhancing both safety and repeatability in professional settings.

Soldering Iron Tips: Matching Shape and Material to the Task

The tip is the most critical interface between the iron and the workpiece. Choosing the correct tip ensures clean joints, minimizes heat exposure, and extends tool life.

Tip Type	Best For	Notes
Pointed (Conical)	Fine-pitch SMDs, small pads, tight spaces	Excellent for detail work but dissipates heat quickly; not ideal for large joints
Chisel (Bevel)	Through-hole soldering, ground planes, wide traces	Distributes heat evenly; most common general-purpose tip
Wedge (Spatula)	BGA rework, desoldering, removing solder bridges	Provides broad contact area; useful for cleanup and rework
Hoop or Knife	Specialty desoldering or edge connections	Niche applications; less commonly used in standard PCB work

Tip Materials: Most tips have a copper core for superior thermal conductivity, coated with iron to resist corrosion from molten solder and flux. Over time, oxidation and wear degrade the coating, leading to "tinning" issues. Regular cleaning and re-tinning (applying fresh solder to the tip) extend lifespan. High-end irons use advanced plating technologies like nickel-iron or ceramic coatings for improved durability.

Corded vs. Cordless: Portability vs. Performance

Corded Soldering Irons

Plug-in models draw continuous power from an outlet or station, ensuring stable temperature and unlimited runtime. They are best suited for benchtop work, production lines, or repair stations where access to power is reliable.

Many corded irons are part of temperature-controlled soldering stations that include stands, sponges, and diagnostic features. Their consistent performance makes them the preferred choice for professional electronics assembly and repair.

Cordless (Battery-Powered) Soldering Irons

Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, cordless irons offer unmatched mobility. They are ideal for field repairs, automotive electronics, or locations without immediate access to electrical outlets.

However, they typically have shorter operating times (10–30 minutes per charge), slower heat recovery, and limited temperature adjustability. Some models use butane fuel instead of batteries, offering longer runtime but requiring flammable gas handling precautions.

Important: Always match your soldering iron’s specifications to your project requirements. Using excessive heat or an inappropriate tip can permanently damage circuit boards and components. Regular maintenance—such as cleaning the tip, checking for loose connections, and storing the iron properly—ensures long-term reliability and consistent solder joint quality. When in doubt, start with lower temperatures and test on scrap material before working on live circuits.

Commercial Uses of Soldering Irons

Soldering irons are essential tools across a wide range of industries, particularly in commercial settings where precision, reliability, and durability are critical. These tools play a vital role in assembling, repairing, and maintaining electronic systems and circuitry. Below is a detailed overview of the primary commercial applications of soldering irons, highlighting their importance in modern technology-driven sectors.

Electronics Manufacturing

Mass production facilities rely heavily on soldering irons—both manual and automated—for assembling consumer electronics such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and home appliances. Skilled technicians use temperature-controlled soldering stations to attach surface-mount and through-hole components to printed circuit boards (PCBs), ensuring high-quality connections that meet industry standards.

• Used in both prototyping and full-scale production lines
• Essential for rework and touch-up tasks where automated systems fall short
• High-precision soldering ensures minimal defects and improved product longevity

Quality focus: Consistent thermal control prevents component damage and cold solder joints

Repair Services

Electronics repair shops—including those specializing in mobile devices, gaming consoles, televisions, and audio equipment—depend on soldering irons to diagnose and fix hardware issues. Technicians use these tools to replace damaged capacitors, resistors, connectors, and integrated circuits.

• Micro-soldering techniques are used for repairing delicate smartphone logic boards
• Desoldering tools paired with soldering irons enable safe component replacement
• Common repairs include fixing charging ports, HDMI connectors, and power management circuits

Pro tip: ESD-safe soldering stations protect sensitive components during repair

Telecommunications Installation

Companies deploying and maintaining communication networks use soldering irons to assemble and repair critical infrastructure components. This includes connecting wiring and circuitry in routers, switches, signal boosters, and fiber-optic interface modules.

• Soldering ensures stable, low-resistance connections in network hardware
• Field technicians may use portable soldering kits for on-site repairs
• Reliable solder joints reduce signal loss and downtime in telecom systems

Key benefit: Durable connections support high-speed data transmission integrity

Aerospace Engineering

The aerospace industry demands extreme precision and reliability in electronic assemblies. Soldering irons are used to build and maintain avionics systems, flight control units, navigation equipment, and satellite circuitry, where even a single faulty joint can have serious consequences.

• Follows strict military and aerospace soldering standards (e.g., IPC-J-STD-001)
• High-reliability soldering with leaded or lead-free alloys depending on mission requirements
• Used in cleanroom environments to prevent contamination

Critical requirement: Zero-defect soldering for safety-critical flight systems

Automotive Work

Modern vehicles contain complex electronic systems—from engine control units (ECUs) to infotainment and driver assistance technologies. Automotive technicians and aftermarket specialists use soldering irons to repair or modify these systems when standard replacements aren't feasible.

• Repairs include fixing damaged wiring harnesses, sensors, and dashboard displays
• Used in custom installations like LED lighting, GPS modules, and performance tuning
• Essential for restoring vintage car electronics with obsolete components

Growing need: Increasing vehicle electrification drives demand for skilled soldering

Medical Device Manufacturing

Manufacturers of medical equipment such as MRI machines, ultrasound scanners, patient monitors, and diagnostic tools require ultra-precise soldering. These devices must meet rigorous safety and regulatory standards, including ISO 13485 and FDA guidelines.

• Soldering must be clean, consistent, and free of contaminants
• Use of lead-free, biocompatible solder materials in many applications
• Each joint is often inspected using X-ray or AOI (automated optical inspection)

Safety first: Faulty soldering could compromise patient monitoring or treatment systems

Research and Development

Innovation labs, university research centers, and tech startups use soldering irons extensively during the prototyping phase. Engineers and scientists hand-solder custom circuits to test new ideas before moving to mass production.

• Enables rapid iteration of circuit designs on breadboards and custom PCBs
• Used in developing IoT devices, robotics, and AI hardware
• Supports testing of new solder alloys, thermal management techniques, and miniaturized components

Innovation driver: Manual soldering bridges the gap between concept and commercialization

Field Use: Outdoors and at Events

Soldering irons are not limited to workshops—they’re also used in remote or temporary environments. Battery-powered, propane-heated, or generator-powered soldering tools allow technicians to perform emergency repairs on location.

• Used by event technicians to fix audio/video equipment during live shows
• Deployed by field engineers maintaining remote communication or monitoring systems
• Essential for disaster response teams restoring critical electronics infrastructure

Mobility advantage: Portable soldering solutions ensure continuity in unpredictable conditions

Professional Insight: In commercial applications, investing in high-quality, temperature-regulated soldering stations with interchangeable tips significantly improves efficiency and reliability. For industries like aerospace, medical, and telecommunications, adherence to certified soldering standards is not optional—it's a regulatory necessity. Training and certification in proper soldering techniques should be considered essential for any technician handling mission-critical electronics.

Industry	Primary Use	Common Tools/Techniques	Critical Requirements
Electronics Manufacturing	PCB assembly and rework	Temperature-controlled irons, hot air rework stations	High precision, consistency, IPC compliance
Repair Services	Component replacement	Micro-soldering, desoldering pumps, fine-tip irons	ESD protection, miniaturization capability
Telecommunications	Network hardware assembly	Soldering kits, crimping + solder combo tools	Signal integrity, durability
Aerospace	Avionics and satellite systems	Military-grade irons, magnification tools	Zero defect tolerance, strict documentation
Automotive	ECU and sensor repairs	Heavy-duty irons, heat-resistant tools	Vibration resistance, long-term reliability
Medical Devices	Circuit completion for diagnostic tools	Lead-free soldering, cleanroom-compatible tools	Sterility, regulatory compliance
R&D / Prototyping	Custom circuit development	Benchtop stations, modular tip systems	Flexibility, rapid prototyping support
Field & Event Use	Emergency repairs	Battery/propane-powered irons, portable kits	Mobility, quick setup, durability

Additional Considerations Across Industries

• Safety Standards: Proper ventilation and fume extraction are crucial, especially when working with lead-based or flux-heavy solders
• Training & Certification: IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 certifications are highly valued in professional environments
• Tool Maintenance: Regular tip cleaning and tinning extend tool life and ensure consistent performance
• Environmental Compliance: RoHS and WEEE regulations influence material choices in many sectors
• Future Trends: Automation and AI-assisted soldering are emerging, but manual skills remain indispensable for complex tasks

How to Choose the Best Soldering Iron for Circuit Boards

Selecting the right soldering iron is essential for achieving clean, reliable connections on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Whether you're a hobbyist, student, or professional electronics technician, understanding the key features of a quality soldering iron can significantly improve your work efficiency and results. This comprehensive guide outlines the most important factors to consider when choosing a soldering iron specifically for circuit board applications, including precision, temperature control, tip selection, portability, and build quality.

Safety Note: Always use your soldering iron in a well-ventilated area and with a fume extractor. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes of molten solder, and keep flammable materials away from the heated tip. Allow the iron to cool completely before storing.

1. Assess Your Soldering Needs and Application Type

The first step in selecting the right soldering iron is evaluating your specific use case. Different projects demand different tools:

• Precision Work: For fine-pitch components, surface-mount devices (SMDs), or densely packed PCBs, opt for a digital temperature-controlled soldering station with a fine tip.
• General Repairs: Basic through-hole soldering or wire tinning can be handled by a standard adjustable iron with 20–30 watts of power.
• Field or Mobile Use: If you're repairing electronics on-site or traveling, a battery-powered or butane-powered soldering iron offers unmatched portability.
• Heavy-Duty Tasks: For grounding lugs, large connectors, or thick copper traces, a higher-wattage iron (40–60W) may be necessary, though caution is needed to avoid damaging sensitive components.

For most circuit board work, a temperature-controlled soldering station provides the best balance of precision, safety, and versatility.

2. Optimal Temperature and Wattage for Circuit Boards

Using the correct temperature and wattage is crucial to prevent component damage and ensure strong solder joints:

• Recommended Wattage: A range of 15 to 30 watts is ideal for most PCB applications. Lower wattage reduces the risk of overheating delicate components, while sufficient power ensures quick heat recovery during prolonged use.
• Temperature Control: Look for irons with adjustable temperature settings (typically 200°C to 450°C / 392°F to 842°F). This allows you to match the heat to the solder type (e.g., lead-free solder requires higher temperatures than leaded solder).
• Thermal Recovery: Higher-quality irons maintain consistent tip temperature even during extended soldering, thanks to efficient heating elements and feedback systems.
• Auto-Sleep Features: Many advanced stations include sleep modes that reduce tip temperature when idle, extending tip life and improving safety.

Overheating can damage PCB pads, lift traces, or destroy sensitive ICs—precise temperature control helps avoid these issues.

3. Selecting the Right Soldering Iron Tips

The tip is the most critical part of the soldering iron when working with circuit boards:

• Tip Material: High-quality tips are made from copper core with iron-plated coating. Copper provides excellent thermal conductivity, while the iron plating resists corrosion from molten solder.
• Common Tip Shapes:
  • Conical (Fine Point): Ideal for precision work on small pads and SMD components.
  • Chisel (Bevel): Offers broad heat transfer; great for through-hole components and desoldering.
  • Hoop or Knife Tips: Useful for soldering tight spaces or multiple pins at once (e.g., ICs).
• Interchangeable Tips: Choose a soldering station that supports multiple tip types, allowing you to switch based on the task.
• Maintenance: Regularly clean the tip with a damp sponge or brass wool and re-tin it with fresh solder to prevent oxidation and prolong lifespan.

4. Portability and Power Options

Consider where and how you'll be using the soldering iron:

• AC-Powered Stations: Best for home or lab use. Offer stable temperature control, digital displays, and ergonomic stands.
• Battery-Powered Irons: Portable and convenient for field repairs. Modern lithium-ion models heat up quickly and maintain temperature for 15–30 minutes per charge.
• Butane-Powered Irons: Fuel-based options that don’t require electricity. Ideal for outdoor or emergency repairs but require careful handling and ventilation.
• USB-Powered Irons: Compact and powered via USB-C or USB-A, suitable for light-duty touch-ups but not recommended for prolonged use due to limited heat output.

If you frequently work in different locations, a portable iron with a protective case and quick heat-up time (under 1 minute) is highly beneficial.

5. Build Quality and Brand Reliability

Investing in a high-quality soldering iron pays off in performance and longevity:

• Durable Construction: Look for heat-resistant handles, strain-relieved cords, and robust heating elements that withstand daily use.
• Reputable Brands: Trusted manufacturers like Weller, Hakko, Pace, and TS100 offer reliable performance, excellent temperature control, and wide tip compatibility.
• User Reviews: Check feedback from other electronics enthusiasts and professionals to gauge real-world durability and ease of use.
• Warranty and Support: A good warranty (1–2 years) and availability of replacement parts (tips, heaters) indicate a manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Cheap, no-name irons often lack temperature stability, have poor ergonomics, and short lifespans—avoid them for serious circuit board work.

Feature	Recommended for Circuit Boards	Avoid	Top Picks
Wattage	15–30W (adjustable)	Irons above 40W without temp control	Hakko FX888D, Weller WLC100
Temperature Control	Digital or analog adjustable	Fixed-temperature irons	TS80, YIHUA 936A
Tip Type	Interchangeable conical/chisel	Screw-on or non-replaceable tips	Hakko T12, JBC Quick Swap
Portability	Lithium battery or butane models	Heavy AC-only irons	Pinecil, Weller WE1010
Build Quality	Metal shaft, ergonomic grip	Plastic bodies, thin cords	Pace, Metcal (professional grade)

Expert Tip: Always use rosin-core solder with the appropriate diameter (0.5mm–0.8mm for fine work). Pair your iron with a desoldering pump or wick for corrections, and consider using a magnifying lamp or microscope for precision tasks.

Final Recommendations

• For beginners: Start with an affordable temperature-controlled station like the Hakko FX951 or YIHUA 936A.
• For professionals: Invest in a high-end station such as the Hakko FX888D or Weller WD100M for superior control and durability.
• For portability: The Pinecil V2 (open-source, USB-C powered) is excellent for on-the-go repairs.
• Always keep spare tips and a tip cleaner on hand to maintain performance.
• Regularly calibrate your iron’s temperature if possible, especially after heavy use.

Choosing the right soldering iron enhances not only the quality of your solder joints but also your overall efficiency and safety. By focusing on precision, temperature control, tip quality, and reliability, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any circuit board project with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soldering Irons for Circuit Board Work

Q1: What is the appropriate soldering iron wattage for circuit board soldering?

For most electronics and printed circuit board (PCB) soldering tasks, a soldering iron with a power output between 15 and 30 watts is ideal. This range provides sufficient heat to melt solder efficiently while minimizing the risk of damaging sensitive electronic components such as integrated circuits, transistors, or surface-mount devices.

• Low-wattage irons (15–20W): Best for fine, delicate work on small through-hole or surface-mount components.
• Moderate-wattage irons (25–30W): Suitable for slightly larger joints, ground planes, or components with higher thermal mass.
• Higher-wattage irons (>40W): Generally too hot for standard PCB work and may cause pad lifting, component damage, or burnt flux residue.

Modern temperature-controlled soldering stations often operate at lower wattages but maintain consistent tip temperature due to efficient heat recovery. Always opt for an iron with adjustable temperature settings to match the solder type and component requirements.

Q2: Are corded and cordless soldering irons good for circuit boards?

Both corded (plug-in) and cordless (battery-powered) soldering irons can be used effectively for circuit board work, but each has distinct advantages depending on the application:

Feature	Corded Soldering Irons	Cordless Soldering Irons
Power Source	AC outlet – provides continuous, stable power	Battery (Li-ion or butane) – portable and independent of outlets
Heat Consistency	Excellent – maintains steady temperature during prolonged use	Variable – may cool down during extended sessions or require recharging
Best For	Workbenches, lab environments, long repair sessions	Field repairs, mobile device servicing, tight spaces
Precision & Control	High – typically paired with temperature regulation	Moderate – some models lack fine temperature tuning
Lifetime & Maintenance	Long-lasting with replaceable tips and heating elements	Battery degrades over time; limited lifespan per charge

In summary, corded irons are preferred for accuracy and reliability in a fixed workspace, while cordless models offer mobility and convenience for on-the-go repairs—especially in hard-to-reach locations.

Q3: Can a soldering iron be used to repair mobile phone circuit boards?

Yes, a soldering iron can be used to repair mobile phone circuit boards, but it requires specialized tools and advanced technique due to the miniaturized and densely packed nature of smartphone electronics.

• Micro-Soldering Tools: A precision soldering iron with a fine tip (e.g., conical or micro-chisel) is essential for working on tiny pads and pitch components like ICs, resistors, and capacitors.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Phone boards contain fragile components; using a temperature-controlled iron (typically set between 300°C and 350°C) prevents thermal damage.
• Common Repairs: Includes reflowing BGA chips, replacing charging ports, repairing broken traces, or fixing power management ICs.
• Skill Level: Mobile phone PCB repair demands steady hands, magnification (e.g., a stereo microscope), and knowledge of electronics diagnostics.

While basic through-hole soldering is beginner-friendly, mobile device micro-soldering is generally considered an intermediate to advanced skill. Improper technique can permanently damage the board, so practice and proper tooling are crucial.

Q4: Are temperature control and regulation necessary for circuit board soldering?

Yes, temperature control is not just beneficial—it's essential** for safe and effective circuit board soldering. Here's why:

• Component Protection: Excessive heat can damage sensitive semiconductors, melt plastic housings, or delaminate PCB layers. Temperature control ensures the iron doesn’t exceed safe limits.
• Solder Quality: Different solder alloys (e.g., leaded vs. lead-free) require specific melting points. Leaded solder typically melts around 183°C, while lead-free requires 217°C or higher. Adjustable temperature allows precise matching.
• Thermal Recovery: A regulated iron quickly returns to the set temperature after heat is drawn away by a component, ensuring consistent solder flow.
• Reduced Oxidation: Operating at the correct temperature minimizes flux burning and tip oxidation, extending tool life and improving joint cleanliness.
• Efficiency: Proper heat reduces soldering time per joint, lowering the risk of cold solder joints or overheating nearby parts.

High-quality soldering stations feature digital temperature displays, feedback sensors, and interchangeable tips for various tasks. For any serious electronics work, a temperature-controlled iron is strongly recommended over fixed-temperature models.

Q5: What type of soldering iron tip works best for circuit board soldering?

The best soldering iron tip depends on the specific task, but for general circuit board work, the following tip shapes are most effective:

Tip Type	Description	Best Use Cases
Pointed (Conical)	Fine, needle-like tip for precision work	SMD components, small pads, tight spaces, and intricate PCB layouts
Chisel (Bevel) Tip	Flat edge with angled face; broad contact area	Through-hole components, ground connections, larger pads, and desoldering
Hoof (Sword) Tip	Flat, wide tip with rounded edges	Broad traces, shielding, and heat-sinking applications
Spade Tip	Square or rectangular flat end	Soldering connectors or large terminals
Needle Tip	Ultra-fine, bent tip for micro-soldering	Mobile phone repairs, BGA rework, and ultra-dense boards

Most modern soldering stations support interchangeable tips made from copper with iron-plated coating to resist corrosion. Regular cleaning and tinning help maintain thermal conductivity. Having a set of multiple tips allows you to switch based on the job, improving both efficiency and solder joint quality.