Tips on Soldering Brass
- In order to get two pieces of brass to hold together, it is first necessary to clean both pieces thoroughly. To clean the brass, you will need to use a very fine grit emery cloth to polish both of the sides that will be joined together. Sand both parts and wipe away any grit and dust with a damp, soft cloth to help the parts stick together and provide a strong joint.
- Next, use soldering flux, which not only cleans brass parts, but will also help the solder to flow into position. Use a small solder brush or cotton swab to brush solder onto both pieces that are to be joined. A light coating of flux will be enough; too much flux might burn and leave a hard-to-clean residue on the joint.
- Cut a piece of wire solder and hold the tip next to the joint, and then heat it with a propane torch. As soon as the solder begins to melt, remove the heat source and allow the solder to flow into place. The solder will flow to all areas that were coated with flux. Remove the solder wire as soon as you can see that the joint has sealed.
- If there are any clusters or solder drips on the brass, use solder wick to absorb them. Heat the excess solder until it is just starting to melt and then place a piece of solder wick over it, and the wick will absorb the unwanted run.
- Complete your soldering job by using brown jeweler's rouge on a soft buffing wheel and buff off any remaining unwanted solder and burned areas. Buff the joint a second time using white jeweler's rouge. Areas that cannot be reached with the buffing wheel can be buffed with jeweler's rouge on a soft cloth. To keep the area from tarnishing, spray lightly with clear lacquer.
Preparation
Applying Flux
Applying Solder
Removing Excess Solder
Finish the Job
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