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Here you'll find all the frequently asked questions and answers we've compiled for you.

Active soldering tips combine the tip, heating element, and temperature sensor into a replaceable unit. This places the heating element and temperature sensor close to the solder joint, enabling rapid reheating and stable temperature control even under varying thermal loads. However, since the entire unit is replaced when changing tips, this can result in higher replacement part costs. With passive soldering tips, the heating element and sensor remain in the handpiece, which can make tip replacement more cost-effective. However, their heat transfer depends more heavily on contact quality, tip geometry, power, and control. The specific application determines which design is more suitable.

Solder fumes should be extracted as close as possible to the soldering site before they enter the breathing zone or spread throughout the room. Position the extraction arm or nozzle as close as practical to the source without obstructing visibility or hand movement. For single or dual manual soldering stations, the mobile MG100 and MG140 filter systems are suitable; they filter particles and gases and monitor filter condition. If localized extraction is insufficient or a larger work area needs to be shielded, the CBC with an air curtain can be used.

With the FU-500 and FU-601, Hakko offers an auto-soldering system for automated soldering processes. The FU-500 handles the precise feeding of solder wire, while the FU-601 serves as a high-performance soldering unit for robotic soldering.

Lead-containing and lead-free solders differ primarily in their melting behavior, wetting properties, and process control. The eutectic Sn63Pb37 melts at 183 °C without a melting range, while the widely used lead-free SAC305 melts at approximately 217 to 220 °C. Due to the wider melting range of many lead-free alloys, effective heat transfer is particularly important. A suitable soldering tip, clean surfaces, good temperature control, and appropriate flux are usually more effective than simply setting a much higher target temperature across the board. Excessively high temperatures and long contact times promote oxidation and tip wear.

SMD solder joints are small and sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Stable temperature control helps maintain consistent wetting, contact time, and heat exposure. This reduces the risk of cold solder joints, component damage, or detached pads.

A micro soldering iron is useful when working with very small components, tight component spacing, or hard-to-reach solder joints. It facilitates precise hand control and enables controlled work on compact printed circuit boards.

The soldering tip determines how effectively heat is transferred to the solder joint. A tip that is too small may not provide enough energy, whilst a tip that is too large may damage neighbouring components. The key factor is ensuring the correct contact area with the solder joint.

Automated processes operate using defined positions and motion sequences. The soldering tip must therefore make reproducible contact with the solder joint and the terminal. In the case of K-type soldering tips with a groove, the geometry also influences how solder is held in the tip’s working area and applied to the solder joint.

Hakko offers soldering stations, soldering irons, micro-soldering irons, soldering tweezers, soldering tips, and rework systems for a variety of manual soldering applications. This allows professional workstations to be tailored to the requirements of electronics manufacturing.

That depends on the rework process. For SMD rework and manual fine soldering, active systems offer advantages due to rapid temperature control and stable heat transfer. For THT desoldering, passive desoldering nozzles are often the more cost-effective solution, since heat input and fume extraction are usually more important than high-precision temperature control at the nozzle.

Nitrogen can aid the soldering process when oxidation or insufficient heat transfer hinders wetting, such as with lead-free solders, weakly activated no-clean fluxes, or assemblies with high heat capacity. Heated nitrogen reduces oxygen contact at the solder joint and aids in local preheating. This can improve the solder’s wetting and flow characteristics. A compatible N2 handpiece or a suitable adapter, an appropriate tip and nozzle, and a regulated gas supply are required. Comparative tests on the actual assembly are recommended.

The FR-811 is designed for professional SMD rework tasks. Among other things, it is suitable for assemblies with high component density or higher thermal requirements, as well as for components where multiple solder joints must be heated simultaneously with hot air.

Service life depends on temperature, usage, cleaning method, and application. When handled properly, high-quality soldering tips can deliver consistent results over a long period of time.

The hot air temperature of the FR-811 can be adjusted from 50 to 600 °C. The air flow rate can be adjusted between 5 and 115 l/min. The actual air flow may vary depending on the nozzle geometry used.

In spot soldering, each solder joint is processed individually. In drag soldering, the soldering tip is guided along several connections, allowing multiple solder joints to be soldered in a single motion.

Due to its flat geometry, a D-shaped tip can provide a larger contact area with the solder joint than a very fine conical tip. This allows heat to be efficiently transferred to the pad, terminal, or wire. However, the soldering tip should not be larger than is necessary for the specific solder joint.

Key factors include the size and geometry of the solder joint, thermal mass, accessibility, and the required contact area. Cycle time and process stability should also be taken into account. The D-shape must transfer sufficient heat without affecting adjacent components or structures.

A compatible HAKKO station connects to a PC via USB. Depending on the device, the HAKKO Control software provides the target temperature, temperature presets, correction value or offset, device ID, current peak temperature, and operating statuses. For multi-channel stations, the data is assigned to the respective channel. Parameter sets and temperature profiles can be saved as CSV files. Depending on the model, calibration reports include, among other things, the date, device, handpiece, setpoint and measured values, as well as offset values. Compatible temperature measuring devices can also transmit measured values to the station via infrared.

In drag soldering, the soldering tip must be suited to the joint geometry, movement, and heat requirements. The correct tip shape promotes uniform heat transfer and consistent wetting along the solder joints.

For repairs in very tight spaces, you need a clear line of sight, a securely fastened assembly, and a favorable angle of approach. Choose the smallest soldering tip that can reach the connection while still providing sufficient contact area for rapid heat transfer. Curved or extended tips make it easier to access areas behind closely spaced components; and sensitive adjacent areas can be shielded. Work with a clean, freshly tinned tip and keep contact times short. For assemblies that dissipate heat rapidly, controlled preheating may be advisable. Inspect the repair under magnification after it has cooled.

Common mistakes in SMD soldering include using an unsuitable soldering tip, misjudging heat transfer, and using inappropriate rework tools. These factors can lead to wetting problems, cold solder joints or damaged pads.

Yes. Soldering tip type D can be used for both individual spot soldering and trace soldering processes. In spot soldering, the tip is precisely positioned at a solder joint; in drag soldering, it is guided along several suitable terminals. Which method is appropriate depends on the component geometry, terminal arrangement, and process requirements.

More about the differences between the two methods can be found in the article spot soldering vs. drag soldering in robotic soldering.

Solder can be held in the groove within the working area of the soldering tip. Depending on the application, this solder can be applied during a guided motion or at a single solder joint. The width and depth of the groove must be appropriate for the specific soldering task.

The width should be suited to the geometry and arrangement of the connections, as well as the available installation space. In addition, the contact area, heat requirements, and the amount of solder needed must be taken into account. Therefore, a tip that is as wide or as narrow as possible is not necessarily the better solution.

Preheating can be particularly useful for larger or thermally massive printed circuit boards. Preheating the assembly can reduce the temperature difference that must subsequently be introduced from above using hot air.

Above all, a professional hand-soldering workstation requires stable heat transfer, ESD protection, effective solder fume extraction, and an ergonomically designed work area. The station, handpiece, and soldering tip must be suitable for the task at hand. A conductive work surface, personal grounding, and a common grounding point protect sensitive assemblies; the fume extraction system should capture soldering fumes as close as possible to the source. To ensure reproducible processes, temperature control, temperature presets, operator locks, standby mode, and automatic shut-off are also recommended. Regular checks of tip temperature, ESD connections, extraction performance, and filter condition ensure long-term reliability.

Active soldering tips offer rapid temperature recovery, high temperature stability, precise heat transfer, and short contact times. This makes them particularly well-suited for modern electronic assemblies.

Yes, the HAKKO FX-973 is designed for soldering and vacuum desoldering at a single workstation. The FR-4103 desoldering tool included in the kit extracts fully molten solder directly from the solder joint, eliminating the need for a separate desoldering station. The 140-W handpiece is compatible with N61 series desoldering nozzles. An integrated dual-cylinder vacuum pump generates the vacuum; the extracted solder is collected in the filter tube. After the trigger is released, the pump continues to run briefly to assist with solder removal and reduce clogging.

The Hakko FX-971 is a compact 1-port soldering station ideal for precise SMD soldering. For varying applications, rework, or component removal, the FX-972 offers greater flexibility as a 2-port station. For particularly versatile workstations with multiple tools, the FX-973, a 3-port station, is the ideal solution.

The FX-97X stations differ primarily in the number of ports, total power output, and range of applications. The FX-971 is a compact soldering station with one port and 100 W. The FX-972 offers two ports and a total of 200 W for a flexible workstation with two connected soldering tools. The FX-973 combines three ports, 400 W of total power, and integrated desoldering technology. With the FX-971, the focus is on either a standard, micro, or N2 handpiece. The FX-972 additionally supports SMD and micro tweezers as well as high-performance handpieces, although certain high-power tools cannot be active simultaneously. The FX-973 incorporates this range of tools and supplements it with the FR-4103 vacuum desoldering tool.

In short: The FX-971 is designed for a compact single-station setup, the FX-972 for two soldering tools that can be flexibly combined, and the FX-973 for a combined soldering and desoldering workstation.

The FR-850 is designed for precise micro-hot-air applications involving very small SMD components. The FR-810B and FR-811 offer significantly higher heating power and airflow for larger or more thermally demanding rework tasks. The FR-811 complements this approach with more extensive process control and monitoring capabilities.

The actual soldering tip temperature is measured directly at the wetted soldering surface using a suitable temperature measuring device such as the HAKKO FG-100B or FG-101B. First, allow the station, handpiece, and soldering tip to stabilize at the set temperature. Clean and re-tin the tip, place it gently—without applying excessive pressure—on the intact sensor, and add a small amount of solder to ensure good heat transfer. Repeat the measurement under stable conditions. Only reproducible deviations should be corrected and documented using the offset or calibration function, as described in the operating instructions.

For SMD soldering, slim or tapered soldering tips are suitable when working with fine pads and tight component spacing. For larger SMD components, a small chisel tip may be useful to improve heat transfer.

Preheating, desoldering, or hot-air rework are used depending on the assembly and soldering task. Preheating is helpful for large, multilayer, or copper-rich printed circuit boards that draw a lot of heat away from the solder joint. Vacuum desoldering is particularly suitable for THT connections and through-holes; for multilayer PCBs, the FR-410 can be used, for example, while the FR-400 is recommended for cases involving particularly high thermal mass. Hot-air rework is suitable for SMD packages with numerous or concealed connections. For challenging repairs, these methods can be combined.

Depending on the application, fine, chisel-shaped, beveled, or curved soldering tips are suitable for SMD components. The smallest tip is not always the best choice. It is important to have a sufficient contact area to ensure stable heat transfer.

No. Drag soldering is one possible process method, for example, in terminal strips. Depending on their geometry, K-tips with a groove can also be used for individual solder joints, as demonstrated by applications involving microswitches and ultrasonic sensors.

The right HAKKO soldering tip depends on the component geometry, contact area, and thermal mass. Various geometries and tip series are available for SMD work, rework, or large contact areas. If you’re unsure, you can use the soldering tip finder or ask for advice on the right choice.

For SMD rework, Hakko offers soldering tweezers, desoldering tools, rework systems and suitable handpieces, depending on the application. These help to remove, replace or rework components in a controlled manner.

The HAKKO Control Software allows you to manage device parameters for compatible HAKKO stations on a PC. Parameter sets can be saved as CSV files, reloaded, and transferred to a connected device. Depending on the station, these include target temperatures, temperature presets, correction values or offsets, device IDs, and other settings and status indicators. Additionally, the software can monitor temperature curves and save them as CSV files. Results from automatic calibrations can be saved, searched, and displayed graphically. The exact range of functions depends on the connected HAKKO device.

When working with very small components, good visibility, secure holding, and controlled heat input are crucial. Work at an ESD-protected workstation using appropriate magnification, and secure the circuit board. A micro soldering iron is suitable for accessible individual connections, micro tweezers for small dual-pin components, and a finely adjustable micro hot-air gun for SMDs with contacts on multiple sides or on the underside. The tip should provide as much contact area as possible without protruding beyond the pad. Solder and flux should be applied sparingly, and the solder joint should then be inspected under magnification.

For lead-glass and Tiffany work, we recommend the temperature-controlled HAKKO FX-601. It has the necessary heat reserve for long solder joints on copper foil, lead rods, and large solder joints, and is generally more suitable for this application than a fine electronics soldering station. In practice, the wide 6.5-mm tips T19-D65 and T19-C65 are used almost exclusively for this purpose. Smaller T19 tips transfer too little heat to the wide joints, thereby unnecessarily prolonging the contact time. Which of the two tip shapes is more suitable depends on the seam path and your preferred working angle. Set the temperature only high enough for the solder to flow quickly and evenly. The appropriate setting should be determined using the solder and flux you are working with, along with a test piece.

Not necessarily. Inductive systems offer very fast heating times and high power densities. Active systems, on the other hand, allow for direct temperature control at the soldering tip and provide a high degree of process control.

Yes. HAKKO T39 soldering tips combine the heating element, temperature sensor, and tip into a single, thermally tightly coupled unit. This integrated design enables rapid temperature sensing and uniform heat transfer all the way to the soldering surface. As a result, the tip temperature can be regulated stably even under varying thermal loads. The T39 series also offers numerous geometries, including B, I, D, BC, and K shapes, as well as special variants. This allows the contact area and thermal mass to be selected to suit the pad, component, and accessibility. T39 tips are used with the standard FX-9701 handpiece; compatible variants are also available for the N2 FX-9702 handpiece.

In an active soldering tip, the heating element and temperature sensor are integrated directly into the tip. This allows the temperature to be controlled precisely at the point where heat is transferred to the solder joint.

Active soldering tips are often used for SMD applications because they quickly compensate for temperature losses and enable precise heat transfer.

The right HAKKO soldering station depends on the thermal load, the tools required, and the process requirements. The FX-971 is suitable for a compact single workstation with a standard, micro, or N2 handpiece. The dual-channel FX-972 allows for two permanently connected soldering tools and also supports SMD and micro tweezers as well as high-performance handpieces. The FX-805 is designed for large thermal masses, while the FX-973 is intended for combined soldering and vacuum desoldering. The FN-1010 is the right choice for applications with high requirements for traceability and process data logging. Both the handpiece and the tip series must be compatible with the station.

Typical signs include poor wetting, longer soldering times, visible wear, and a higher temperature requirement for the same application.

Technically, this is possible; however, it significantly increases the risk of poor wetting, longer process times, and thermal stress on the assembly.

For rework applications, it is advisable to use a soldering tip that provides sufficient contact area and quickly transfers heat to the solder joint. This helps reduce soldering times and limit thermal stress.

A properly sized D-shape promotes uniform heat transfer thanks to its defined contact surface. In automated production processes, this can contribute to reproducible soldering conditions. The interplay between temperature, contact time, solder feed, and motion sequence remains critical.

Precise solder wire feeding ensures that the correct amount of solder is delivered to the joint in a controlled manner. This promotes stable solder joints and reproducible results in the automated soldering process.

Depending on the model, K-series soldering tips with a groove are suitable for applications such as terminal blocks, connectors, microswitches, and sensor connections. The appropriate model depends on the solder joint geometry, heat requirements, the amount of solder needed, and the motion sequence.

A hot-air system is suitable when multiple terminals of an SMD component need to be heated simultaneously and without physical contact, such as when soldering in, desoldering, or replacing SOP, QFP, PLCC, and BGA components. A suitable nozzle focuses the airflow; temperature, air volume, and duration are adjusted to suit the component, circuit board, and solder. In cases of high thermal capacity, a bottom heater can provide additional support. For individual, easily accessible solder joints, a soldering iron is often more precise. Temperature-sensitive adjacent components should be protected during hot-air rework.

With the FX-972, handpieces FX-9701 through FX-9708 can be connected to either channel 1 or 2; there is no fixed assignment based on tool type. With the FX-973 as well, the FX-9701 through FX-9708, as well as the FR-4103 desoldering tool, can generally be used on any of the three connections. Restrictions apply only to the simultaneous operation of multiple high-power tools from the FX-9705 to FX-9708 series. In such combinations, one tool is set to standby mode. The channel selection can therefore be made based on the workflow and cable routing.

No. A higher temperature is no substitute for proper heat transfer. The key factors are the soldering tip, the contact area, the power of the soldering iron, the contact time and the PCB design. A temperature that is too high can damage components or pads.

There is no universal soldering temperature. The key factors are the solder and flux, the thermal mass of the circuit board and component, the tip shape, the contact area, system performance, and the allowable process time. If work instructions or material data do not specify a value, 330 to 350 °C is a reasonable starting range. Then select the lowest temperature at which the solder reliably melts and wets cleanly within the specified time. A suitable, sufficiently massive soldering tip transfers heat better than a tip that is too small. For reproducible processes, the actual tip temperature should be measured.

That depends on the component geometry and accessibility. Small two-pin components, for example, can be worked on with micro soldering tweezers. For very small or closely spaced components, precise micro hot air, such as that provided by the HAKKO FR-850, may be more suitable.

For SMD soldering work, you’ll need a temperature-stable soldering station, appropriate soldering irons, SMD soldering tips, tweezers, and—depending on the task—rework or desoldering tools. It’s crucial that the tool, tip shape, and heat output are suitable for the specific solder joint.

For temperature-sensitive components, first determine the permissible process window based on manufacturer data, assembly instructions, and quality specifications. ESD-sensitive components must be handled in a suitable ESD-protected area with personal grounding, a grounded work surface, and appropriate tools. Select a tip or nozzle that allows for controlled and brief heat application. If wetting does not occur, check the contact surface, oxidation, solder, flux, and heat dissipation, rather than uncontrollably increasing the temperature or dwell time. Critical processes should be validated on a representative assembly and then tested.

The right soldering tip depends on the size, accessibility, and thermal mass of the solder joint. Small structures require precise geometries, while larger pads or ground planes require more contact area for stable heat transfer.

Temperature drops can be avoided primarily by using a soldering tip that is suitable for the solder joint. Wider D-, BC-, or C-shaped tips transfer more heat to large pads and terminals than very fine tips. A clean, freshly tinned soldering surface further improves heat transfer. Heat the pad and terminal simultaneously and apply fresh solder directly to the contact zone. A higher target temperature is no substitute for a suitable tip geometry. For applications with recurring high thermal loads, a high-performance station with fast temperature control and, if necessary, controlled preheating is the better solution.

The HAKKO Control Software supports the FX-305, FX-805, FX-971, FX-972, FX-973, and FR-850 stations. It allows you to manage a variety of professional applications, ranging from solder baths and high-performance hand soldering to multi-channel soldering stations and hot-air rework. The available control, monitoring, and storage functions depend on the specific model. Therefore, use the latest software package intended for your station and select the exact station model within the software. This ensures that only the settings and functions supported by the connected device are displayed.

Among other products, Hakko offers slide units, tip cleaners, temperature probes, N2 adapters, and various TX1 and TX2 soldering tips. These components support stable, reproducible spot and drag soldering processes.

Oxidation occurs as a result of high temperatures and contact with oxygen. It impairs wettability and reduces heat transfer.

For commercial customers, a three-year TBK warranty applies to HAKKO products purchased through TBK. Accessories and consumables are excluded from this warranty. This voluntary warranty does not automatically apply to devices purchased through other distribution channels and supplements the statutory rights regarding defects. The TBK Terms and Conditions of Delivery apply to statutory liability for defects; these generally provide for a 24-month period from the date of delivery or, if applicable, from the date of required acceptance. Please retain your proof of purchase, product description, and serial number so that the scope of the warranty and the claims process for the specific device can be clearly verified.

Yes. Business customers can generally test professional HAKKO equipment free of charge for four weeks. This allows you to evaluate the right combination of workstation, handpiece, soldering tip, or nozzle directly with your own assemblies and under real-world working conditions. Upon request, we can combine the test with a visit to your location. During this visit, we’ll assist you with selection, setup, and initial test soldering, and we’ll work with you to fine-tune the key parameters for your specific application. Please let us know the desired equipment, your application, the location where it will be used, and your preferred time frame. We’ll then confirm availability, accessories, shipping or pickup, and the exact details of the four-week trial.

A soldering robot is not cost-effective based on a fixed production volume, but rather when used for recurring soldering tasks with stable process conditions. Suitable conditions include reproducible solder joints, defined component positions, and collision-free access for the soldering tip and solder wire. Less suitable are one-off parts, frequently changing variants, unfixed wires, or processes with many exceptions. Before making the investment, a pilot test with actual assemblies is recommended. During this test, cycle time, soldering quality, rework, program changes, malfunctions, and maintenance costs are measured. The key factor is whether the consistent benefits justify the integration, fixture, and operating costs.

Filter replacement for a solder fume extraction system depends on the actual load and the condition of the unit, not just on a fixed schedule. On the MG100 and MG140, the filter indicator monitors operating time and extraction performance. A warning indicates that the recommended service life has been reached or that the airflow is no longer sufficient. First, check the nozzle, extraction arm, and hose for deposits or blockages. For the MG140’s main filter, approximately 1,500 operating hours are considered a guideline in electronics manufacturing; for reliable gas separation, it should be replaced at least once a year.

The appropriate soldering tip should provide as much controlled contact area with the terminal and pad as possible without touching adjacent components or extending beyond the pad. A tip that is too small transfers heat slowly, while one that is too large can place unnecessary stress on the surrounding area. For many SMD pads, a D-shape of appropriate width is a good starting point. Fine I-shapes or curved J-shapes facilitate access to tight spaces; D-, BCM/CM-, J-, or K-shapes are suitable for rows of terminals, depending on the geometry. Other key factors include thermal mass, accessibility, and a tip series compatible with the handpiece.

The service life of a HAKKO soldering tip cannot be generally specified in operating hours. It depends on the soldering temperature, solder, flux, tip shape, application, cleaning, and idle time at high temperatures. Use the lowest temperature at which the solder joint forms quickly. Clean the tip gently and fully re-tin the soldering surface immediately afterward. During breaks, use the temperature reduction feature or automatic shut-off. Files, abrasives, and vigorous tapping damage the protective coating. The tip should be replaced if pitting, deformation, or consistently poor wetting occurs.

Hot air is particularly suitable for components where multiple solder joints must be melted simultaneously or where individual connections cannot be reached effectively with a soldering tip. These include, for example, QFP or BGA applications.

The shape of the soldering tip affects heat transfer, contact area, and accessibility. The right geometry ensures better wetting, shorter process times, and reproducible soldering results.

A micro soldering iron is useful for very small SMD components, tight pad distances and hard-to-reach solder joints. It allows for precise control of the soldering tip and enables controlled work on densely packed printed circuit boards.

The D-shape is suitable, among other things, for soldering chip components, larger pads, and leads, as well as for spot and drag soldering processes. Wires and various terminal geometries can also be processed using a properly sized chisel-shaped tip. It is crucial that the width and contact area of the soldering tip match the respective solder joint.

Once all solder joints have completely melted, the component can be lifted using the integrated vacuum pipette and a suitable suction cup. This requires a suitable setup for vacuum pickup. When used correctly, this reduces the risk of damaging solder pads or circuit traces by forcibly pulling them off.

Spot soldering is suitable for individual solder joints, various pad geometries, selective soldering tasks, and assemblies where heat must be applied with particular precision.

The FX-972 supports eight handpieces: FX-9701 through FX-9704 for standard, N2, and micro soldering, FX-9705 as SMD tweezers, the FX-9706 as micro-tweezers, and the high-performance soldering irons FX-9707 and FX-9708. Both ports can be freely assigned. However, two tools from the higher-power group (FX-9705 through FX-9708) cannot be active at the same time. The FX-973 supports the same eight handpieces as well as the FR-4103 desoldering tool. If multiple high-power tools are connected, one of them is placed in standby mode; lower-power combinations can be used simultaneously.

The difference lies in the position of the heating element and the temperature sensor. In active systems, both components are located directly in the tip; in passive systems, they are located in the soldering iron or handpiece.

A soldering tip should be replaced if its wetting ability permanently decreases, its geometry is damaged, or heat transfer significantly deteriorates.

Soldering fumes can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract because they contain fine particles as well as gaseous and vaporous reaction and decomposition products. The composition depends on the solder, flux, workpiece, temperature, and duration of soldering. Fumes from heated fluxes can be particularly irritating; components containing rosin can cause sensitization and trigger occupational asthma. Even lead-free soldering produces flux decomposition products and very small particles. Soldering fumes should therefore be extracted directly at the source. Unnecessarily high temperatures should be avoided, and the extraction system and filters should be maintained regularly.

Drag soldering is useful for terminal blocks, connector strips, or components with evenly spaced pins. This method can efficiently process multiple solder joints in a single motion.

Preheating can be helpful for multilayer or copper-rich printed circuit boards if the assembly dissipates a significant amount of heat from the actual rework area. This means that the required temperature rise does not have to be generated solely locally by the rework tool.

It depends. Whether older HAKKO soldering tips are compatible with a new FX station depends on the station, the handpiece, and the tip family. The FX-951 and FX-952, when used with the FM-2028 handpiece, use tips from the T12 and T15 families, respectively. The FX-971 and FX-972, in their standard configuration, work with the FX-9701 handpiece and T39 tips. Therefore, even identical tip designations do not guarantee interchangeability. Always check the complete product codes for the station, handpiece, and soldering tip before ordering. For special handpieces or conversion kits, the specific combination must be approved.

Both stations support the same range of soldering and tweezers handpieces. The FX-973 also features a third port and an integrated vacuum pump for the FR-4103 THT desoldering tool.