Wave Soldering Machine WS450

A wave soldering machine is an essential piece of equipment used in through-hole PCB assembly to solder electronic components onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) using a wave of molten solder. This process is widely used in SMT production lines that involve mixed technology (SMT and through-hole) or in products that still rely on traditional through-hole components for reliability and mechanical strength

Wave Soldering Works

In a wave soldering machine, the PCB is first preheated and then conveyed over a pump-driven wave of molten solder. The wave contacts the exposed metal pads and component leads underneath the board, forming reliable solder joints. The entire process is automated and consists of several stages:

1. Fluxing: Applies flux to clean and prepare metal surfaces for soldering

2. Preheating: Gradually heats the PCB to reduce thermal shock and activate flux

3. Solder Wave Contact: Passes the PCB over a controlled wave of solder

4. Cooling: Solidifies the joints and ensures structural integrity

Key Features of Wave Soldering Machines

• Automatic flux spraying system with adjustable volume

• Preheating zones using IR or convection heaters to match solder profiles

• High-precision solder pot with temperature control (commonly lead-free compatible)

• Wave pump system to generate laminar or turbulent solder waves

• Conveyor with adjustable speed and angle for optimized solder contact

• Nitrogen environment (optional) for reduced oxidation and improved joint quality

Advantages in SMT and Through-Hole Assembly

Wave soldering machines are particularly valuable for high-volume PCB manufacturing and SMT production lines that include through-hole components. Key benefits include:

• High soldering speed for mass production

• Consistent and reliable solder joints

• Cost-effective for large-scale through-hole assembly

• Compatible with lead-free and RoHS-compliant solder alloys

• Minimal manual soldering labor required

• Reduces defects such as bridging, skipping, or cold joints

Applications in Electronics Manufacturing

Wave soldering machines are commonly used in:

• Power electronics and automotive PCBs

• Consumer electronics with mixed components

• LED driver boards and power supplies

• Industrial control systems

• Communication equipment and base stations

Types of Wave Soldering Machines

1. Lead-Free Wave Soldering Machine – Designed for high-temp solder alloys

2. Mini Wave Soldering Machine – Compact version ideal for prototyping and small runs

3. Nitrogen Wave Soldering System – Offers an inert atmosphere for higher soldering quality

4. Selective Wave Soldering Machine – Targets specific areas for mixed-technology boards