Brazing torches are used to join metal pieces using temperatures of 800°F or higher. MAPP, oxy/acetylene, and TIG are common types of brazing torches, each with different temperature requirements. All require filler material and appropriate safety measures during operation.
Brazing torches are used to join two pieces of metal using temperatures of 800 degrees Fahrenhiet (426 degrees Celsius) or higher. When temperatures below this are used, it is usually considered welding, not brazing. Brazing torches provide the flame or arc that melts the filler material used to bond metal pieces together.
There are many types of brazing torches, but three of the more common varieties include methylacetylene-propadiene gas (MAPP), oxy/acetylene, and tungsten inert gas (TIG). These all achieve the same purpose – to weld metal together – but the temperatures at which they operate vary. Some brazing jobs require specific temperatures, so not all brazing torches are created equal. The required temperature and type of torch needed will be determined by the types of metals to be joined and the relative thickness of those metals.
MAPP gas brazing torches are usually hand held brazing rods with a small tank directly attached. The tank contains the gas mixture. MAPP torches are used when welding light gauge material using a lower melting temperature filler, such as silver, lead and brass alloys. Many welders consider using MAPP torches a form of soldering, not soldering, due to these low temperatures.
Oxy/acetylene torches are the most common type of brazing torches and are often the cheapest to operate. Oxy/acetylene brazing torches are among the most versatile and usually found in home garages. These torches require the use of an oxygen gas tank and an acetylene gas tank connected to the torch head via hoses and pressure regulators. The oxy/acetylene torch heads consist of interchangeable body and tip, which are exchanged according to heat needs.
TIG torches use electricity to create an arc with an inert gas mixture surrounding the arc to keep impurities out. TIG torches are operated by pressing a foot petal. The foot petal controls the amount of amperage that translates into heat energy. TIG torches resemble a fountain pen with a handle that houses the tungsten rod.
All types of brazing torches require filler material to function properly. When using these torches, welders hold the torch in one hand while feeding the filler material with the other. All brazing torches can be dangerous if misused and appropriate eye protection and clothing should be advised during operation.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
