What distinguishes brazing from soldering?

Brazing and soldering are both methods used to join metals, but they are distinguished primarily by the temperature at which the joining occurs. In brazing, the joining process typically occurs at temperatures above 450 degrees Celsius (842 degrees Fahrenheit), which is significantly hotter than the temperatures used in soldering, where the melting point of the filler metal is below 450 degrees Celsius.

This difference in temperature affects the types of metals and filler materials that can be used, as well as the physical properties of the resulting joint. Brazing creates a stronger and more durable joint than soldering due mainly to this higher temperature, which allows for better flow and penetration of the filler metal into the joint and the formation of metallurgical bonds with the base metals.

Understanding this temperature distinction is crucial for anyone working with these joining techniques, as it influences the choice of materials and the applications suitable for each process.