Brazing Welding and Soldering Guide
Brazing, welding, and soldering are three methods of joining metals together. The average person often uses these terms interchangeably, and for good reason – each process involves the use of heat to melt metals. In the construction industry, each process is regularly used and considered a fundamental component of commercial operations. However, there are important differences to consider when evaluating which method to use for a particular project. Each project calls for a specific method, usually depending on the temperatures involved.
Primary Differences
The primary difference between the processes are the temperatures at which a non-ferrous filler metal is used with respect to the metal joinder. For brazing, the joining of metal pieces is aided by non-ferrous filler metal more than 450°C/842°F. Soldering requires the assistive metal to be less than 842°F. Depending on the project, one process may not be more appropriate than another. For instance, different methods of brazing are implemented to increase temperatures and control high-frequency induction, including torch brazing, induction
brazing, and resistance brazing.
Benefits and Setbacks
Each method offers specific pros and cons beyond temperature. Brazing works well because it’s simple and cost-effective. Construction projects involve many types of metals and tools.
Contractors must follow all relevant laws and codes. Ignoring them can lead to liability. Brazing meets many code requirements when done properly. It needs high heat to work, but higher melting point alloys create stronger joints.
Brazing connects different metals with ease. It also produces cleaner, more attractive joints. The process causes less stress on the metal, which reduces the risk of visible flaws. A bad-looking joint can compromise the entire project.
While soldering is clearly the “cooler” of the processes, the filler metals are weaker, being made mostly from tin and lead. As a result of the materials used and temperature involved, the soldering technique results in an overall weaker end result.
Contrasts
In contrast, welding is another process that most closely resembles soldering, except that the intention is to also melt the base metal. There are various forms of welding, including gas welding, arc welding, and laser welding. Welding is appropriate for certain types of artwork, thermoplastics, automotive projects, and even some aerospace uses. Unlike welding, brazing does not involve melting the work pieces. Overall, welding is beneficial in that the bond it creates is a durable one with a flawless seam. The melting point is considered superior to
brazing, and the process – having been used for so many years – has been efficient and effective.
Each technique has its own utility, depending upon a given situation. For soldering, the use involves careful attention to detail, rendering the method a popular use for computer components, such as motherboards and circuits. While welding is reserved for much larger projects, including aerospace, transportation, energy, and construction, brazing is best used when joining two metals of different size, weight, or other apparent identifying features.
Despite the obvious difference in temperature, the differences between these techniques are intricate. Though there are differences in utility, in the end, the processes elicit similar products.