Posted on 2st June, 2023 by EPTAC Staff
Soldering is the joining of two metal surfaces mechanically and electrically, with the use of a metal alloy called solder. It secures the connection, so it won’t break loose from vibration or other mechanical forces and provides electrical continuity in some cases. Soldering is used in many different applications from jewelry making to large metalworking assemblies and everything in between. In this article, we outline some of the different applications and kinds of soldering.
Soft Soldering (90 °C – 450 °C) [194oF – 842oF]
This process uses the lowest filler metal melting point of all of the soldering types. With a melting point of less than around 400°C (752oF) these filler metals are usually alloys, often containing lead with liquidus temperatures under 350°C (662oF). Although these low-melt alloys do not stress the physical components, the shear and tensile strength characteristics of these low-temperature alloys are typically not used or suitable for mechanical load-bearing applications. Similar to hard soldering, the metal being bonded is heated with soft soldering.
Hard (Silver) Soldering (>450 °C) [>842oF]
Brass or silver, hence the name “silver soldering,” is used for this bonding metal process. This process also requires a blowtorch to achieve the temperatures at which the solder melts.
Brazing (>450 °C) [>842oF]
This type of soldering uses metal with a much higher melting point than those used in hard and soft soldering. However, similar to hard soldering, the metal being bonded is heated instead of melted. Once both the materials are heated sufficiently, you can then place the soldering metal between them, which melts and acts as a bonding agent.
Plumbing
Soldering is used in the plumbing industry anywhere from a rotted fuel tank to a copper pipe. It can be used to seal liquid leaks or repair radiator cores. Soldering a copper water supply line is the most common application in the plumbing industry. Heat is applied to the copper joint where the pipe and fitting meet, and the gap between the joint is filled with molten metal.
Electronics
Soldering is used in the electronics industry primarily on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Solder on a PCB is the connective metal alloy that acts as the electromechanical connection that connects the components to the substrate and brings electrical continuity to the circuit board. Without this convenient, low-melting-point alloy, modern electronics wouldn’t be able to function or even exist.
Metalwork
Soldering can also be used in metal working and is used to make and repair jewelry and musical instruments. The solder melts to form a bond between two pieces of metal, making it a useful tool in jewelry-making and repairing clasps, clips, or cuffs. Similarly, soldering is used to fix brass or silver instruments. As mentioned above, this can be done using the hard or silver soldering.
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1 – The Roofing Business
Soldering is often used in the roofing industry when making flashing or fusing together components of a copper roof. If you're doing soldering for a roof, it doesn't require as much fine detail and accuracy as working with circuit boards and other smaller components, so the typical soldering tool has a broad tip that heats up very quickly and maintains a high temperature. There are also metal gutters for residential homes that are held together with a soldered joint. When soldering is used for gutters, it creates a permanent, leak-proof bond that helps to reduce water damage and keeps your home running smoothly.
2 – Auto Work
The metal that's used in soldering is generally too soft to make engine repairs that are going to last, but you can still use soldering irons for smaller tasks. Most of the metal joining work in automobiles is performed by acetylene torches and other traditional welding methods, but you can use soldering metal to fill in irregular cavities in the engine, tighten joints, or smooth out any rough edges. Soldering is also used in automobiles to make repairs to the electrical systems.
3 – For Electricians
Just like soldering is often used in electronics to create circuit boards, electricians also use it for detailed work, such as splicing wires for residential or commercial wiring. Soldering is also used to fuse together wires in electrical terminals or control panels and attach connectors to cables.
4 – For Jewelers
Jewelers often use soldering pens or soldering irons that have interchangeable tips so they can have better precision when working with jewelry. There is usually a high percentage of silver in this type of soldered, and jewelers commonly use borax flux to help reduce oxidation and maintain quality.
5 – Artistic Projects
Stained glass windows and mosaics often call for a soldering iron to join the separate pieces of coloured glass together. This is the type of project that can be done at home for fun, or you can purchase stained glass or mosaics that had been done professionally. Any type of art that consists of metal joined together may call for a soldering pencil, soldering gun, or soldering iron.
For over 35 years, EPTAC has been a leading provider of solder training and IPC certification. We provide professionals with the tools and training they need to advance their careers and improve their businesses. With 24 locations across North America, our solutions and instructional staff provide easy access to knowledge that will enhance your business model and help you meet and exceed industry demands. For more information, call 800.643.7822 or contact us.
Q: What are some potential issues to consider when soldering?
A: Regardless of the type of soldering application, it’s important to consider potential issues when joining metal surfaces together. You should consider the melting temperature, which type of soldering tool to use, whether to use lead-free solders and any exposure you may have to the materials and by-products of the application.
Q: Is rosin flux dangerous to humans?
A: Rosin flux is used to remove oxides from metal surfaces during the soldering process. It’s a common part of the process, but it still has the potential to cause problems if it gets on the skin or if it is inhaled. Some short-term issues include irritation to your nose, sinuses, eyes, and throat, and skin rashes. Possible long-term issues include dermatitis and asthma.
Q: What are some important safety tips for home soldering?
A: If you're soldering at home, it's very important to follow some basic safety tips to ensure you don't get injured or end up with any long-term problems. here are some helpful safety tips if you love DIY soldering projects:
