Uses of Brazing Copper Alloys Explained

What is brazing? In layman terms, it is the technique of cementing two components of metal by the means of another metal alloy (smelted filler) with a lower melting point. The procedure involves heating the joint section, such that the filler flows between the closely fitted metal surfaces by the capillary action. This leads to a sturdy metallurgical bond on natural cooling.

Since brazed joints have a flawless finish, this process is preferred by chemical suppliers and is used extensively for making plumbing fittings, tools, construction gear, superior consumer items etc. Though a number of alloys are used as fillers for brazing, the principal constituents are copper and zinc as they improve flexibility and strength. Filler metals come in forms like wire, paste, powder and even strip.


Types of joints:

Though several types of braze joints can be used, the basic ones are butt joints, lap joints, and butt lap joints.

Butt joint: In this type of joint, the metal parts are placed in an edge to edge layout. The butt joint is solid and can sustain any functional need.

Lap joint: The connecting surface is larger since the two metals partly cover each other. As a result the bond produced is solid. The butt-lap joint has the combined benefits of both basic types.

Uses of copper brazing alloys:

• Copper alloys are ideal for brazing dissimilar metals like a tool and stainless steel, nickel alloys and titanium alloys, etc. The filler metal should have a melting point lesser than that of base metals.

• The process of brazing is a boon for the manufacturing segment and used for toys, aircraft engines, medical products and even spaceships. This technique produces results which are sometimes not feasible with other joining measures.
• The brazed joint offers strength which is equivalent or better than that of the base metals.
• Brazed joints are pliant and can endure a significant amount of distress and vibration.
• Brazing alloys for copper and fluxes are preferred by manufacturers as the process of joining is devoid of fumes, post scraping, corrosive mineral flux, residue and heat.
• In terms of a metal joining, the procedure is economical and undertaken with relative speed which is a big advantage for manufacturers.
• Copper brazing alloys produces robust metallurgical bonds without destroying the properties of base metals. Since the process does not melt surface metals, the dimensions remain exact and precise.
• Brazing is a cost-effective procedure, especially when carried out for large consignments.
• Another plus point is that the brazed joints can be prized apart if the need arises in future.
• The brazed connections necessitate practically no finishing or buffing. The technology also helps to shield the coatings and coverings.
• Brazing not only links non-metals with metals but has the ability to join metals of varying thickness. It is a straightforward way of binding large sections.
• Brazing technology is a great solution for joining specific and complex parts. Likewise, it can bind ultra-fine parts of any contour or shape.
• Since many metal components can be brazed instantaneously, mass production is quicker and an economical procedure which spells high profit in the long run.