How to Request a Selective Soldering Nozzle by Photo

Sending a photo of your existing selective soldering nozzle is one of the fastest ways to get an accurate quotation for an aftermarket compatible replacement. This guide explains what to photograph, how to capture the details a supplier needs, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Key Takeaways

**A clear photo can replace a part number** — when you do not have the reference number, photos provide enough information for identification

**Photograph the nozzle from multiple angles** — top, side, base, and close-up of the ID opening

**Include a ruler or scale reference** — helps the supplier estimate dimensions accurately

**Show the solder pot or base interface** — confirms the base type (B14.1/B22, B16.1/B36, etc.)

**Mark visible dimensions on the photo** — ID, AD, and height measurements speed up the quotation process

Why Photo-Based Requests Work

When you cannot locate a part number on your nozzle or in your machine documentation, a well-taken photograph provides the essential information a supplier needs to identify and match the nozzle. The key dimensions — ID, AD, height, and base type — can all be determined from clear photos, especially when a scale reference is included.

Ersa, VERSAFLOW, ECOSELECT, SMARTFLOW and other brand names are used for compatibility reference only. Our aftermarket compatible nozzles are designed to match the specifications of these machines without claiming to be original or original-equipment products.

What to Photograph

Essential Photos

Photo AngleWhat It ShowsTips

|---|---|---|

Top view (looking down at nozzle tip)ID opening diameter, tip conditionPlace a ruler next to the nozzle for scale Side view (profile)Overall height, nozzle shape, body profileStand the nozzle upright on a flat surface Base view (looking at bottom)Base type, thread pattern, seating surfaceClean the base first to show details clearly Close-up of tipID opening size, wear condition, oxide buildupUse macro mode if available Nozzle next to rulerScale reference for all dimensionsUse a metric ruler with millimeter markings

Optional but Helpful Photos

The nozzle seated in the solder pot — confirms base compatibility

The nozzle next to a known-size object (coin, caliper) — alternative scale reference

The old nozzle alongside a new one (if available) — shows wear progression

The nozzle drawing or label — any printed information on the nozzle body

How to Take Effective Photos

1. **Use good lighting** — Natural daylight or a well-lit workbench. Avoid shadows that obscure details.

2. **Clean the nozzle first** — Remove solder residue and oxide so the dimensions and surface condition are visible.

3. **Use a plain background** — A white or light-colored surface behind the nozzle eliminates visual clutter.

4. **Focus on details** — The ID opening and base thread are the most critical features. Make sure they are sharp and clear.

5. **Include scale in every photo** — A ruler, caliper, or known-size reference should appear in at least one photo.

Marking Dimensions on Your Photo

If you can measure your nozzle with calipers, annotate the photo with the known dimensions:

**ID (Inner Diameter)** — The opening at the nozzle tip

**AD (Outer Diameter)** — The outer dimension at the tip

**H (Height)** — From the base seating surface to the top of the nozzle tip

Even approximate measurements help the supplier narrow down the correct configuration. If you cannot measure precisely, include a ruler in the photo and note the approximate values.

DimensionHow to MeasureTypical Range (B14.1/B22)

|---|---|---|

IDInner caliper at nozzle tip opening1.8mm to 31.0mm ADOuter caliper at nozzle tip2.5mm to 35.0mm HeightFrom base seat to nozzle tip top47mm to 90mm Base diameterCaliper across the base threadMatches B14.1/B22 or B16.1/B36

Common Mistakes in Photo Requests

MistakeConsequenceSolution

|---|---|---|

No scale referenceDimensions cannot be estimatedInclude a ruler or caliper in the photo Poor lightingDetails are obscuredUse bright, even lighting Only one angleBase type cannot be confirmedSend at least 3 angles: top, side, base Dirty nozzleSurface details hiddenClean before photographing Low resolutionSmall features not visibleUse highest resolution setting Nozzle still in machineLimited angle accessRemove nozzle for better photos

What Happens After You Send the Photo

Once you submit your nozzle photos:

1. **Identification** — The supplier matches your photo to known nozzle configurations in their database

2. **Dimension verification** — Using scale references and known dimensions, the supplier estimates ID/AD and height

3. **Base type confirmation** — The base thread pattern and seating surface confirm B14.1/B22, B16.1/B36, or other base type

4. **Quotation** — You receive a price quote for the identified aftermarket compatible nozzle

5. **Custom option** — If no standard configuration matches, the supplier can manufacture a custom nozzle based on your photo dimensions

Photo Submission Methods

**WhatsApp** — Send photos directly for review. [WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/8615706606161)

**Email** — Attach photos to your quotation request with dimensions and machine details. [Contact us](/contact)

**Online form** — Upload photos through the quotation request page with supporting information

Related Products

[B14.1/B22 Nozzles](/products/b14-1-b22-nozzles) — 90+ aftermarket compatible configurations

[B16.1/B36 Nozzles](/products/b16-1-b36-nozzles) — 18 aftermarket compatible configurations

[Custom Nozzles](/technical-guides/custom-selective-soldering-nozzles-by-drawing-or-sample) — Made from your photo, drawing, or sample

[Nozzle Maintenance Guide](/technical-guides/how-to-clean-wettable-selective-soldering-nozzles) — Prepare the nozzle for clear photos

Ready to Send Your Photo?

[WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/8615706606161) your nozzle photos for immediate identification and quotation, or [Request a Quote](/contact) through our online form.