How to choose the material of SMT nozzle?
During the SMT mounting process, the material of the nozzle directly affects the accuracy, durability and production efficiency of the mounting machine. At present, ceramic nozzles and tungsten steel nozzles are the mainstream choices in the market, but the two have significant differences in performance, cost and applicable scenarios. This article will conduct a comparative analysis from multiple dimensions to help you make the best choice.
1. Comparison of material properties
| Features |
Ceramic nozzle |
Tungsten steel nozzle |
| Main ingredients |
Zirconia (ZrO₂), aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) |
Tungsten steel (hard alloy, including tungsten, cobalt, etc.) |
| Hardness |
High (Mohs hardness 8-9) |
Very high (Mohs hardness 9+) |
| Wear resistance |
Excellent (suitable for long-term high-frequency use) |
Excellent (longer life) |
| Impact resistance |
Poor (brittle, easy to break) |
Strong (good toughness, collision resistance) |
| Anti-static performance |
Excellent (suitable for precision IC mounting) |
Average (special coating improvement required) |
| Weight |
Lighter |
Heavier |
| Cost |
Higher |
Medium |
2. Comparison of applicable scenarios
1. Recommended scenarios for ceramic nozzles
✅ High-precision mounting (such as 01005, 0201 components, BGA, QFN, etc.)
✅ Occasions with high anti-static requirements (such as RF components, memory chips)
✅ Long-term stable operation (good wear resistance, suitable for mass production)
2. Recommended scenarios for tungsten steel nozzles
✅ Heavy component placement (such as electrolytic capacitors, connectors)
✅ High impact environment (such as high-speed placement machines are prone to collision)
✅ Cost-sensitive production (tungsten steel nozzles are more cost-effective)
III. Service life and maintenance comparison
| Comparison item |
Ceramic nozzle |
Tungsten steel nozzle |
| Average life |
6-12 months (depending on the frequency of use) |
1-2 years (more wear-resistant) |
| Maintenance difficulty |
Need to prevent falling, avoid collision during ultrasonic cleaning Impact-resistant, |
Can adapt to stronger cleaning methods |
| Replacement cost |
Higher (unit price is 30%-50% higher than tungsten steel) |
Lower (but regular anti-rust treatment is required) |
Note:
Ceramic nozzles are prone to cracking if dropped or collided, so be careful when operating.
Tungsten steel nozzles may rust if exposed to flux for a long time, and it is recommended to use anti-rust agent for maintenance regularly.
IV. How to choose?
Component type
Ultra-small components (01005, 0201) → Ceramic nozzle (high precision, anti-static)
Large/heavy components (electrolytic capacitors, LEDs) → Tungsten steel nozzle (impact-resistant)
Production environment
High static risk workshop → Ceramic nozzle
High-speed placement machine (prone to collision) → Tungsten steel nozzle
Cost considerations
Sufficient budget, pursuit of long-term stability → Ceramic nozzle
Limited budget, need high cost performance → Tungsten steel nozzle
Conclusion
Choose ceramic: high precision, anti-static, long life, suitable for precision electronics (mobile phones, chips).
Choose tungsten steel: impact-resistant, economical, suitable for conventional components (home appliances, power modules).
Which nozzle is more suitable for your production line? Welcome to contact our SMT expert team.
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