The Matweld M019 is a high-quality silver solder brazing rod (often referred to as "S/Sol") designed for precision joining of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Unlike flux-cored versions, the M019 is a solid wire rod, offering a high silver content that provides exceptional capillary flow and high-strength bonds, making it a standard choice for the HVAC, refrigeration, and electrical industries in South Africa.
Technical Specifications
- Diameter: 1.5mm.
- Code: M019 (Supplier Product Code: MAN0410).
- Alloy Type: Silver Solder (Solid).
- Melting Range: Typically between 620°C and 750°C (depending on the specific silver percentage).
- Pack Quantity: Usually sold in small maintenance packs of 2 rods.
- Core Material: Silver-Copper-Zinc alloy (Cadmium-free).
Key Features
- Superior Capillary Action: Due to the silver content, the molten alloy is extremely "fluid," allowing it to pull itself into tight-fitting joints and gaps via capillary attraction.
- Dissimilar Metal Joining: One of the most versatile brazing rods available; it can join copper to steel, brass to stainless steel, and copper to brass.
- High Tensile Strength: Provides a joint that is often stronger than the parent metals themselves, with excellent resistance to vibration and thermal expansion.
- Corrosion Resistance: The silver alloy is highly resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for food-grade environments and marine applications.
- Cadmium-Free: Safe for use in plumbing and food processing equipment where toxic fumes must be avoided.
Common Applications
- Refrigeration & HVAC: Brazing copper pipes to brass fittings or steel compressor housings where a leak-proof, high-pressure seal is vital.
- Electrical: Joining heavy-gauge copper busbars or high-current electrical contacts.
- Medical & Dental: Repairing surgical instruments or laboratory equipment requiring high-precision joins.
- Jewelry & Instrument Repair: Used for delicate repairs on brass instruments or high-end metal frames where a low-profile, silver-colored finish is needed.
Usage & Professional Tips
- Flux is Required: Since the M019 is a solid rod, you must use a separate silver brazing flux (such as Matweld Silver Solder Flux). Heat the end of the rod and dip it into the flux before applying it to the joint.
- Joint Clearance: Silver solder works best with very tight tolerances. For maximum strength, aim for a gap of 0.05mm to 0.1mm.
- Heating Technique: Use an oxy-acetylene or MAPP gas torch with a neutral flame. Heat the parent metals evenly; do not melt the rod with the flame. The heat of the metal should be what melts the solder.
- Cleaning: After brazing, the flux residue must be removed. Use warm water and a brush to wash away the white glassy residue to prevent long-term corrosion.
- Preparation: Ensure all surfaces are degreased and brightened with an abrasive pad or Herschell Clean Up Spray before starting.
