The Role of Nitrogen (N₂) in Soldering

Nitrogen soldering means introducing nitrogen gas into the soldering area to displace oxygen. Because nitrogen is an inert gas (non-reactive), it helps prevent oxidation during the soldering process. Oxygen in the air reacts with molten solder and hot surfaces, causing oxide formation that hinders soldering quality. By minimizing oxygen at the joint, nitrogen helps solder behave more predictably and consistently.

How Nitrogen Improves Soldering

Enhanced Wetting & Spread
Nitrogen suppresses oxide formation on copper pads and solder, allowing solder to spread more smoothly and evenly. This helps form strong, shiny joints that are reliable and durable.

Preheating Effect
In many systems, nitrogen is heated as it passes through the soldering iron, providing gentle preheating to the joint area. This reduces thermal stress and can make soldering more efficient.

Prolonged Tip Life
Because nitrogen helps prevent oxidation of the iron tip itself, tips tend to last longer with cleaner surfaces.

Hakko’s Nitrogen Soldering Systems — Practical Tools for Better Results

  • Hakko FX-780 / FX-781 N2 Generator: Generates a flow of high-purity nitrogen (99.9%) from compressed air.
  • Hakko FX-791 N2 Flowmeter: For N2 soldering iron with flow control valve and regulator
  • Hakko FM-2026 N2 Soldering Iron: A nitrogen-compatible soldering iron designed to deliver nitrogen gas directly to the soldering point, right at the tip.

This integration ensures a stable, optimized inert atmosphere at the point of soldering, reducing oxidation, improving wetting, and making joints more reliable — all without needing nitrogen cylinders or complex gas setups.
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