What temperature separates brazing from soldering?

Brazing and soldering are both processes used to join metals, but they differ in the temperatures at which they are performed. The critical temperature that separates brazing from soldering is 840 degrees Fahrenheit.

When joining metals, soldering typically occurs at lower temperatures, specifically below 840 degrees F. This process uses a filler material that melts and flows into the joint to create a bond but does not melt the base metals themselves. On the other hand, brazing involves a higher temperature where the filler metal melts above this 840 degrees F threshold, allowing for a stronger joint due to a more complete flow and bonding with the base metals.

This distinction is important in HVAC systems, where the strength and integrity of connections can significantly impact system performance and reliability. Understanding the difference in temperatures helps technicians choose the appropriate joining method based on the materials and application requirements.