Soldering: It is a method of joining two or more pieces of metal sheets by means of a fusible alloy or metal , called solder, applied in the molten state. The melting point of the filler metal is below 4200C. Generally lead and tin alloys are used in various compositions depending upon the use of the joint. Composition of some of the solder is given below:
(i) Soft solder- lead 37% and tin 63%.
(ii) Medium solder- lead and tin each 50%.
(iii) Electrician solder-lead 58% and tin 42%
(iv) Plumber’s solder- lead 70% and tin 30%
Depending on method of heating soldering processes may be classified as dip, iron, resistance, torch, induction, furnace, infrared and ultrasonic type.
Brazing: it is a process of joining two pieces of metals in which a non ferrous alloy is introduced in a liquid state between the pieces of metal to be joined and allowed to solidify. The filler metal is distributed between the closely filled surfaces of the joint by capillary action. The melting point of filler metal is above 4200C, but lower than the temperature of parent metal. During the process no forging action is present and also the parts do not melt. The bond is produced either by the formation of solid solution or intermetallic compounds of the parent metal and one of the metals in the filler. The strength of the bond is provide by metallic bonding.
Copper, Copper alloys, Silver alloys and Aluminium alloys are used for brazing process.