Soldering is the process of joining elements made of various materials by introducing solder between them. In addition, this material has a melting point lower than that of other parts. Such an operation is widely used as the most high-quality method of fastening. Soldering copper pipes allows you to extend the service life of such a connection, the tightness of its joints under pressure, to provide high resistance to corrosion.
Before proceeding to the independent performance of work, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with their main components in detail in order to prevent the appearance of unwanted errors and to obtain a high-quality connection as a result.
Soldering of copper pipes is carried out using soft or hard solder. The first material is used at a temperature of about 425 ° C, and the permissible temperature of the second can reach 560 ° C. Determining the type of solder depends on the amount of copper and other materials that are in its composition. In the case when the solder for brazing copper pipes contains silver, its melting temperature should be lowered.
In order to obtain a better compound, it is best to use copper-phosphorus elements, but their melting point is much higher compared to silver. For copper-bronze and copper-brass melted materials use flux for soldering copper pipes. Its use is tantamount to mechanical cleaning of parts before carrying out a procedure that can prevent the appearance of an oxide film, which is quite important for this process. Basically, a flux having the appearance of a paste is used, due to which the soldering of copper pipes will be greatly simplified.
In order to prevent errors in the connection of parts, you must also adhere to some rules. The joint must be cleaned with a decreasing flame that will create maximum heat. It is necessary to degrease metal surfaces. The gaps between the elements and their relative position must be carefully checked.
Soldering copper pipes involves applying a small amount of flux from the outside of the joint. In addition, the place for this should be evenly heated to the required temperature. Then the solder can be applied to the joint and evenly distributed in it using a soldering torch. In molten form, it will flow towards the junction, which is more heated.
Upon completion of soldering, flux residues must be removed. It is quite important to adhere to one of the main rules: the heating cycle should not last too long, and overheating is completely excluded during operation. In addition, it is necessary to ensure the proper level of ventilation in order to prevent the formation of smoke, which is very harmful to the human body, consisting of cadmium vapor.
Compliance with the above recommendations will greatly facilitate the execution of work, save time and help achieve the desired result.