Flux is important when brazing because it serves multiple purposes in the brazing process. One of its main functions is to remove oxides from the surface of the base material. Oxides can form on the metal surface due to exposure to air or other contaminants, and they can hinder the bonding of the brazing filler metal to the base metal. Flux helps to dissolve and remove these oxides, ensuring a clean surface for the filler metal to bond with.
Another important role of flux is to prevent oxidation during the heating process. When metal is heated, it can react with oxygen in the air and form oxides. These oxides can interfere with the flow of the brazing filler metal and weaken the joint. Flux creates a protective barrier on the metal surface, preventing contact with oxygen and minimizing oxidation.
In copper to copper brazing applications, phosphorus in BCuP alloys acts as the fluxing agent. This eliminates the need for a separate flux material.
Flux also promotes the free flow of the brazing filler metal. It acts as a wetting agent, allowing the filler metal to spread evenly and smoothly over the metal parts to be joined. This ensures a strong and uniform bond between the base metal and the filler metal.
Additionally, flux cleans the metal surfaces by removing any contaminants such as grease, oil, rust, or scale. These contaminants can weaken or prevent the formation of a bond between the workpieces. By removing them, flux ensures proper bonding and improves the quality of the joint.
In some cases, controlled atmosphere furnace brazing can be used as an alternative to flux. In this process, the brazing is done in a furnace with a controlled atmosphere, such as a vacuum chamber or a continuous-belt furnace. The controlled atmosphere prevents oxidation and overheating of the base metal, allowing the filler material to melt correctly and flow into the joints without the need for flux. This process can result in shinier metal parts and minimize the possibility of residue and flux voids.
Overall, flux plays a crucial role in brazing by removing oxides, preventing oxidation, promoting the flow of the filler metal, and cleaning the metal surfaces. It ensures strong and reliable joints, improving the overall quality of brazed assemblies.
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