Find HS Code and trade information for soldering iron

Soldering Iron

A soldering iron is a hand tool used for joining two or more metal items using solder. It provides concentrated heat locally, allowing the solder to melt and flow into the join, creating a permanent bond.

Material

Soldering irons consist of several key components:

• Heating Element: Typically resistive heating coils made of alloys like nichrome.
• Tip: Usually made of copper, often plated with chrome or other materials for corrosion resistance and improved heat transfer. Tip shapes vary widely (see Common Types).
• Handle: Insulated plastic or rubber for safe handling.
• Barrel/Body: Metal casing protecting the heating element and providing a mounting point for the handle.
• Power Supply: Can be corded electric, or cordless with rechargeable batteries. Some advanced models use induction heating.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a soldering iron is to create a reliable electrical connection between components. Beyond electronics, soldering is used in:

• Plumbing: Joining copper pipes.
• Jewelry Making: Assembling and repairing jewelry.
• Stained Glass: Joining pieces of glass with solder.
• Model Building: Connecting metal parts.

Function

Soldering irons function by:

1. Heat Transfer: The heating element generates heat, which is conducted through the tip.
2. Melting Solder: The heated tip is applied to the joint area and the solder. The heat melts the solder.
3. Wetting: Molten solder flows into the joint due to capillary action, adhering to the metal surfaces. This "wetting" action is crucial for a strong bond.
4. Solidification: As the solder cools, it solidifies, creating a permanent electrical and mechanical connection. Flux is used to clean the metal surfaces and promote wetting.

Usage Scenarios

• Electronics Repair: Fixing broken circuits, replacing components on printed circuit boards (PCBs).
• Electronics Assembly: Building new electronic devices.
• DIY Projects: Creating custom electronic gadgets.
• Prototyping: Quickly creating temporary connections for testing circuits.
• Hobbyist Work: Model railroading, robotics, etc.

Common Types

• Traditional Electric Soldering Irons: Most common type, plug into a wall outlet. Variable temperature models are widely available.
• Temperature-Controlled Soldering Stations: Provide precise temperature control, often with digital displays and feedback loops. More expensive, but offer better control and consistency.
• Cordless Soldering Irons: Powered by rechargeable batteries, offering portability. May have limited run time.
• SMD Rework Stations: Designed for surface mount device (SMD) soldering, often with hot air and infrared capabilities.
• Chip Soldering Irons: Specialized for soldering and desoldering integrated circuits (ICs).
• Tip Variations: Conical, chisel, knife, fine-point, and various specialized tips for different applications. Tip shape impacts heat concentration and precision.

Soldering irons are machinery and apparatus for soldering, brazing or welding. They are often hand-directed or -controlled.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 8468801000: Machinery and apparatus for soldering, brazing or welding, whether or not capable of cutting, other than those of heading 8515; gas-operated surface tempering machines and appliances; parts thereof: Other machinery and apparatus: Hand-directed or -controlled.
  • 84: Chapter 84 covers nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof.
  • 68: Heading 8468 specifically covers machinery for soldering, brazing or welding.
  • 80: Subheading 846880 covers other machinery and apparatus within this category.
  • 10: Subheading 8468801000 specifically refers to hand-directed or -controlled machinery.
  • Tax Details: This HS code has a base tariff of 2.9%, a surcharge of 25.0%, and a surcharge of 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 57.9%.

Regarding HS code 8468801000, it is important to note that this classification covers soldering apparatus that are not capable of cutting and are not covered under heading 8515.