Brazing involves using various gases to create an atmosphere that prevents oxidation and ensures the quality of the braze joint.
Which Gases are Used in Brazing? (4 Key Gases Explained)
1. Inert Gases
1.1 Nitrogen (N2)
Nitrogen is the most commonly used inert gas in brazing. It is cost-effective and can displace oxygen in the furnace atmosphere. Nitrogen is particularly effective for brazing copper and other non-ferrous materials. It must have a dew point of less than 51°C to ensure a dry environment that prevents the formation of oxides.
1.2 Helium (He)
Helium is another inert gas used in brazing. It is primarily used due to its high thermal conductivity which aids in the heating process. Helium is less commonly used compared to nitrogen due to its higher cost.
1.3 Argon (Ar)
Argon is used in brazing, especially in processes that require a very stable and inert atmosphere. It is often used in conjunction with other gases or in vacuum brazing applications where high purity is required.
2. Hydrogen (H2)
Hydrogen is used as an active agent in brazing atmospheres. It is particularly effective for the reduction of metal oxides. Hydrogen helps in the removal of surface oxides, facilitating better wetting and flow of the filler metal. However, the use of hydrogen is carefully controlled due to its flammability and potential for causing explosions if not handled properly.
3. Other Considerations
3.1 Oxygen and Water Vapor
Both oxygen and water vapor are generally undesirable in brazing atmospheres. Oxygen content should be minimized, often specified as less than 100 ppm. Humidity is controlled by specifying a low dew point, typically below -40°C.
3.2 Combination of Gases
In some advanced brazing processes, a blend of hydrogen and inert gases is used to optimize the brazing environment for specific materials and applications.
4. Selection Criteria
Each gas or gas mixture is selected based on the specific materials being brazed. The desired properties of the braze joint are also considered. Safety considerations of the process are crucial. The choice of atmosphere is crucial in ensuring the integrity and reliability of the brazed components, especially in critical applications such as aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.
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