Electronic – Can “lead free” tips be used with leaded solder

ironlead-freesoldering

I've just purchased my first soldering iron, an Atten 8586. The item description claims it is suitable for lead free soldering, however I have no interest in using lead-free solder at this point.

I've read through Are some soldering iron tips unsuitable for lead-free solder? and What are the different types of solder used for? however am still confused about lead vs lead-free solder.

My understanding is this (correct me if I'm wrong);

  1. Lead Free solder melts at higher temperatures
  2. This means your tips may oxidise / corrode faster (due to higher working temperatures)

Will my 'lead free' soldering iron tips be suitable for use with leaded solder?

Best Answer

I would imagine that the only real difference would be the initial tinning on the tip.

Generally, you can use a lead-free soldering iron tip with leaded solder without issues. However, it's generally not a good idea to use a leaded solder tip with lead-free solder.

IIRC, there are issues with having lead impurities (e.g. a little tiny bit of lead) in lead-free solder causing the joint to become much more brittle then either type of solder on it's own. However, I can't find the paper on the subject at the moment.
I don't think lead-free solder contaminating a leaded-solder joint would be an issue.