Flux is a crucial component in the brazing process. It serves multiple purposes that ensure the success of the brazing operation.
Why is Flux Important When Brazing? 7 Key Reasons Explained
1. Removes Oxides from the Surface of the Base Material
Oxides can form on the metal surface due to exposure to air or other contaminants. These oxides 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.
2. Prevents 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.
3. Acts as a Fluxing Agent in Copper to Copper Brazing
In copper to copper brazing applications, phosphorus in BCuP alloys acts as the fluxing agent. This eliminates the need for a separate flux material.
4. Promotes the Free Flow of the Brazing Filler Metal
Flux 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.
5. Cleans the Metal Surfaces
Flux removes 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.
6. Alternative to Flux: Controlled Atmosphere Furnace Brazing
In some cases, controlled atmosphere furnace brazing can be used as an alternative to flux. This process 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.
7. Ensures Strong and Reliable Joints
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.
Continue Exploring, Consult Our Experts
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