UNSPSC 23271600: Soldering machines

Soldering is a method of joining metal parts using a filler metal of low melting point (solder). Heat is applied to the metal parts, and the soft filler metal is pressed against the joint, melts, and is drawn into the joint by capillary action. After the metal cools, the resulting joints are not as strong as the base metal, but have adequate strength, electrical conductivity, and water-tightness for many uses.

UNSPSC 23271600 Soldering machines is a Class code that encompasses procurement of plasma cutting and welding equipment, along with ancillary vent extraction systems and consumable welding materials. State and local governments buying under this code are acquiring capital equipment for fabrication shops, welding labs, and technical education programs—including CNC plasma tables with software integration, plasma cutters, portable welding units, flexible extraction arms, and multi-year supply contracts for welding consumables and materials. Issuing bodies include state departments of transportation, community college districts, public school systems, and county community colleges. The recent opportunities show investment in both high-specification capital equipment (single-unit procurements with installation and training) and rolling supply agreements for ongoing consumable inventory and smaller portable equipment.

The code shows recent activity across Oregon, California, Georgia, and Texas. The Oregon Department of Transportation posted RFCQ S7300000018052 on October 13, 2026, seeking a 6' × 12' CNC plasma table with Flashcut control and Hypertherm MaxPro200 system for its Bend Shop, with quotes due October 29, 2026, requiring 90-day delivery, a support facility within 150 miles, and 24-hour on-site repair capability. Mt. San Antonio Community College District in California posted IFB 2026067 on September 28, 2026, for the purchase and installation of 47 flexible vent extraction arms (6-inch openings) in its Welding Lab, with bids due July 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with a 3% DVBE participation goal and an Engineer's Base Bid Estimate of $150,000. Dalton Public Schools in Georgia posted RFB PE55294NONST2027000000018 on September 1, 2026, for four pieces of welding lab equipment (one Flex Cut 45 plasma cutter, one MBS-1018-11x18 saw, and nine Powermig 262MP units), due September 25, 2026. Collin College and Collin County Community College District in Texas each posted multi-year ITBs for welding materials, supplies, and equipment, with estimated annual volumes near $400,000 per procurement and multi-vendor award structures.