MicroChannel Welding with a Brazing Torch
Microchannel tubes (also called multiport extrusion tubes) are flat and rectangular tubes made of a number of channels. They are used for fluid or heat transfer and can increase heat transfer, offering a higher surface-per-volume ratio. They may be used in HVAC and other industries, including the automotive industry. A micro-channel tube is a fairly new product that has many welding points, which means that welding strength is essential. Welding microchannel tubing can be challenging due to its delicate nature, but it is possible with the correct equipment, alloy, and technique.
Microchannels might also be a way to construct other elements for various products. Microchannel coils are used in HVAC appliances and might need to be welded or brazed to be repaired when there are problems. Making these repairs requires a delicate touch and the ability to weld small surfaces. It’s necessary to have a brazing rod that flows well, especially on thin aluminum. Problems with microchannel coils can cause leaks and need to be repaired quickly. Microchannel welding needs to be carried out carefully, but it’s a great choice for heating and cooling appliances. It can be quicker and cheaper to repair microchannel coils rather than to replace them.
Micro-Channel Welding
When welding or brazing microchannels, it’s important to use low temperatures and either a propane torch or MAPP gas. The flame needs to be moved constantly to prevent the channels from melting, which would make any problems worse. You need a 1/16″ brazing rod that will lend itself to welding microchannels, is easy to control, and is able to bond at temperatures lower than the melting point of aluminum. The welding rod should be applied without causing any sagging wrinkling or warping to the base metal, which requires it to have a low melting temperature.
Micro-Channel Welding with Super Alloy 5 Aluminum Welding and Brazing Rod
Our Super Alloy 5 aluminum welding rod is designed to offer flexibility and can be used with any torch to braze all types of aluminum. This one rod is compatible with oxyacetylene, MAPP gas, natural gas, oxy-MAP, or propane torches so it can be used to achieve micro-channel welding with the equipment that you have. Super Alloy 5 creates an extremely strong bond that is stronger than the parent metal and can be bent, drilled, anodized, machined, plated, tapped, or threaded. It has a low working temperature that makes it easy to apply, and it offers a perfect color match for aluminum.
Super Alloy 5 flows through small spaces and produces a smooth result that needs little to no finishing. It flows like silver solder on thin aluminum, which makes it ideal for welding microchannels without making a mess. It’s easy to use, and it’s strong and resistant to corrosion. It also offers the perfect solution for repairs, as it can bond through oxidation, residual paint, oil, grease, and more. It bonds at half the melting point of aluminum to protect the microchannels during welding.
Micro-channel welding has its own challenges, but with the right welding rod product and technique, it is much easier to manage.