PCB preheaters are an essential part of a professional electronics workshop. They enable safe and controlled removal of components during rework and repair processes. Our range includes various types of preheating devices: BGA rework ovens, PACE PH PCB preheaters, hot plates, and quartz preheaters. Thanks to uniform heating across the entire board surface, our solutions ensure high process reliability and optimal results during PCB rework and BGA reballing.
Which PCB preheater should you choose?
PCB preheaters are widely used in soldering and rework applications because they enable high-quality soldering at reduced peak temperatures. They shorten processing time and significantly reduce thermal stress on PCBs, which is critical for achieving reliable results. Preheating systems can be effectively used for multilayer boards and thermally demanding assemblies. PCB preheaters typically use two heating technologies: convection heaters and infrared (IR) emitters, described below.
Convection heaters feature controlled heating zones that gradually and evenly distribute heat, reducing the risk of thermal shock. These systems often allow temperature monitoring and profile control during operation. Infrared PCB preheaters are particularly suitable for smaller boards and precision applications. High-power IR lamps ensure rapid thermal response and uniform heating performance.
What are the benefits of PCB preheaters in an electronics workshop?
Preheating offers multiple advantages, including the ability to use lower reflow temperatures, typically below 260°C. It is also critical for proper flux activation by removing oxide layers and improving wetting performance. This enhances solder joint quality and reliability. Since preheating temperatures remain below the alloy melting point, the temperature difference between preheat and final reflow is reduced, minimizing the risk of thermal shock and board deformation.
JBC preheaters
JBC preheaters are particularly suitable for multilayer PCBA rework and large ground-plane assemblies, where avoiding thermal shock is essential. They facilitate both soldering and desoldering processes in demanding industrial environments.
For optimal results, PCBs and components must be preheated according to controlled temperature profiles within recommended limits. JBC preheaters feature dedicated thermal profiles designed for this purpose and can be adapted to specific applications.
Using JBC software, the preheater can be synchronised with other JBC equipment such as hot air systems, soldering stations, and fume extraction units. This integrated setup ensures efficient and optimised soldering and rework processes. JBC preheaters available in our offer:
JBC PHBK dual-zone preheater – set
JBC PHSK single-zone preheater – set
JBC PHXL six-zone preheater – set
PACE preheaters
Fast and safe soldering or desoldering of large, heat-absorbing components requires effective preheating. Whether working with thick multilayer PCBs connected to ground planes, heat-dissipating modules, or lead-free assemblies that demand precise thermal control, a PCB preheater becomes an indispensable tool. PACE preheaters are high-performance, non-contact infrared (IR) heating systems with an ergonomic, low-profile design. They enable operators to safely preheat PCBs for efficient soldering, rework, and repair processes — even on high-mass, lead-free boards where thermal management is critical. Why use preheating?
Supports rapid solder flow while preventing thermal damage and stress
Ensures uniform temperature distribution across the PCB
Reduces board warping and maintains flatness during rework
Lowers required working temperature and process time
Extends soldering tip lifespan by enabling operation at lower tip temperatures
