Equipment Degradation
Physical wear occurs when lead free solder alloys react with the stainless steel surfaces of solder pots and impellers. Because the sn100c erosion process is driven by the high tin content of the alloy, it can lead to the thinning of pump components and the eventual failure of the wave soldering machine. Unlike older leaded solders, this nickel stabilized alloy requires specialized materials for any part that stays in constant contact with the liquid.
Protective linings or high grade titanium are often used to prevent this chemical attack.
Steel Leaching
Molten tin acts as a solvent that slowly pulls iron and chromium out of standard steel alloys. The sn100c erosion rate is influenced by the flow velocity of the solder, making the impellers and nozzles the most vulnerable parts of the machine. As the metal wears away, the dimensions of the wave change, which can lead to soldering defects like bridging or insufficient hole fill.
Operators must regularly inspect the mechanical parts of the pot for signs of pitting or surface thinning. Replacing these parts before they fail is a requirement for maintaining a stable process.
Maintenance Cycle
Regular monitoring of the solder pot chemistry reveals the presence of dissolved iron. A steady increase in iron levels indicates that the sn100c erosion is impacting the structural integrity of the machine. Maintenance teams use these laboratory results to plan the replacement of nozzles and liners before they contribute to assembly defects.
