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);
- Lead Free solder melts at higher temperatures
- 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.