Now you too can braze stainless steel quickly and easily with any torch.
For this video demonstration, we clamped two ends of a stainless steel bracket and used an oxyacetylene torch to braze the joint.
As always, we pre-cleaned the stainless steel with a Dremel tool to ensure proper bonding. SSF-6 silver solder bonds most effectively to “just cleaned” metals with no oxidation. If the silver solder is not bonding to your base metal, it’s a good indication that either the torch is not hot enough or the metal is not clean enough.
Not the technique: Use the torch to broadly and evenly heat both sides of the stainless steel until it turns a dull red color. This color change indicates it’s time to add the silver solder and braze the joint.
Melt a small amount of the SSF-6 flux onto the joint and flow it into the joint with the heat of the torch. SSF-6 is a high flowing rod, and the rod follows the heat, so be sure to use the torch to flow the flux exactly where you want the rod to bond. When the flux begins to melt, add a chunk of the silver solder rod–making sure to continue moving the torch so as to not overheat and damage the stainless steel parts.
Stainless steel melts at roughly 2750°F, so SSF-6 silver solder’s 1150°F working temperature allows even the most inexperienced welders to successfully braze stainless steel. And SSF-6 is flux coated for ease of application. For even more precision or delicate applications, we recommend SSQ-6 silver solder paste.
After completing the braze, clean up excess flux with water and a wire brush.
TIPS:
- You don’t have to use an oxyacetylene torch to make these repairs. Propane, MAPP gas and even butane will work on small parts.
- Never heat the brass bright red as this impedes the flow of SSF-6.
- This same technique is useful for plumbing applications
- Broad heating is important to achieve a nice even flow.
Note: Please observe all AWS Safety & Health Guidelines when using Muggy Weld products.
