Soldering is performed in a wide range of industries including plumbing, electronics, heating/AC and manufacturing processes. Selecting the right solder is based on many factors including the solder’s melting temperature range, the properties of the soldering wire for the application, bonding capabilities, and the strength and hardness of the solder. Tin lead wire is a general-purpose eutectic solder that is widely used to join two metals together.

About Tin Lead Wire Solder

Tin lead wire may come in ratios such as 63% tin to 37% lead, 60% tin to 40% lead or a 50/50% ratio. It is sometimes considered a eutectic solder, where the wire will melt and freeze using a single temperature. This melting/freezing will be dependent on the ratio of the tin and lead.

Tin lead wire that is 63/37% will have the same melt and freeze temperature of 361.4°F. If using a 60/40% tin lead wire soldering, there will be a varying melting temperature range. It will begin to melt at 361.4°F and become a full liquid at 375.8°F.

Benefits of Tin Lead Wire Solder

Tin lead wire solder is ideal for applications where there are delicate temperature requirements for soldering. When tin is added into the wire, it provides a lower melting temperature. A lower melting temperature for solder is required when the parts being joined can be negatively impacted at higher temperatures.

The tin lead wire solder is commonly used for electronics where heat sensitive components will begin to melt, crack, or warp at varying high temperatures. It also provides good electrical properties as well as mechanical strength. The solder ensures that electronic components are joined securely to contact points. Since the tin lead wire is lightweight, it won’t put any unnecessary stresses on components.

Another benefit to tin lead solder is its corrosion resistance properties. Oxidization and other corrosive elements can severely impact soldered joints, causing them to become pitted as they will fail quicker than the base metal it is connected to when creating the joint. When it fails, the two components can come apart to cause electronics to fail or cause cracks in pipes that can allow steam, water, liquids and other products to seep out.

Concerns with Tin Lead Wire

Always ensure that proper ventilation and personal protective equipment is used when using tin lead wire for soldering. Lead is considered hazardous. So, the tin lead wire materials that are not used should be disposed properly in approved containers.

There are lead-free wires available for use in applications that may come in contact with people. These should be considered when solder is used in medical applications or for food and beverage manufacturing applications. These lead-free solders will contain tin along with copper, silver, or other additives. Speak with an experienced metal specialist when searching to tin lead wire for common soldering applications.